National Story
G . I . R . L . 2017 An Unforgettable Experience
From dive tanks to infinity rooms to inspirational speakers ( and more !), G . I . R . L . 2017 truly was an epic event — and
the LARGEST girl-led event in the world ! Hosted by Girl Scouts , this mega event took place in Columbus , Ohio ,
October 6 – 8 and provided every G . I . R . L . ( Go-getter , Innovator , Risk-taker , Leader ) ™ with unforgettable experiences as they got inspired , gained tools to empower themselves , and mastered the know-how to lead change in their communities , all while connecting with some of the most influential women in the world along the way .
And the best part ? G . I . R . L . 2017 was 100 percent girl-led ! That ’ s right ! Twenty-one girls from across the Girl Scout Movement , nicknamed the G-Team , made up the core of G . I . R . L . 2017 ’ s planning efforts to ensure this national Girl Scout convention was the best one yet !
HALL OF EXPERIENCES
The Hall of Experiences was one of the biggest ( literally !) attractions at G . I . R . L . 2017 , offering more than 100 unique hands-on activities focused on Girl Scouts ’ national program pillars of science , technology , engineering , and math ( STEM ); entrepreneurship ; life skills ; and the outdoors . Here girls also had an opportunity to make an impact both locally and globally by taking part in the “ Rise Against Hunger ” Take Action project . For the project , girls packed a whopping 20,768 meals for people in need — in Columbus and beyond . “ Campfire Chats ” brought local , national , and world-renowned speakers into cozy meet-up spaces to share their knowledge and expertise , and interact with girls and adults . Plus , attendees shopped to their heart ’ s content at the Girl Scout mega-store for new uniform pieces , souvenirs , and gifts .
SESSIONS & SPEAKERS
Accomplished public figures such as Chelsea Clinton , Gabby Douglas , Barbara Pierce Bush , Mae Jemison , and more joined G . I . R . L . 2017 throughout the weekend , leading panels and intimate breakout sessions on the pressing issues facing girls today . Plus , the event featured performances by talented young artists , such as Angelica Hale and Caly Bevier from America ’ s Got Talent . Each time one of these notable women took the stage or joined a conversation ,
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