International Women’s Day – Daria’s Story

A member from Salford has made history by becoming the youngest and one of the first to represent BB on a national youth panel.

Daria Bageac, 14, is representing The Boys’ Brigade & Girls’ Association on the Youth United Foundation’s (YUF) National Youth Panel. The Panel, made up of young people aged 14 to 24 from the UK’s main uniformed organisations, will lead on a research piece as part of a UK Government-funded research programme into Loneliness.

Daria, who moved to the UK with her family two years ago is a is a member of the 53^rd Manchester, based at the Emmanuel Church in Salford.

At only 14, she is the youngest member of the panel which comprises of ten other young people from the Youth United Network.

Daria points to the sense of belonging you get from being part of groups like The Boys’ Brigade.

Daria said:

“I moved here two years ago and my English wasn’t great. It is so hard to meet people and I wasn’t that confident anyway. With The Boys’ Brigade I learned you can still make friends, even with a language barrier.

“Just engaging with others makes you feel part of something. You feel strong and supported.”

The 53^rd Manchester is one nearly 1300 companies The Boys’ Brigade has across the UK and Republic of Ireland, offering children and young people the safe and caring space to learn and grow.

Daria added:

“Being in this group has pushed me out of my comfort zone to try new things. For example when someone beat me at chess, I wanted to get them back. So I learned how to play – and yes, I got my revenge!”

Programmes offered by BB offer a wide range of experiences, including a focus on helping others and developing important life skills.

Daria said:

“It’s about the greater good – developing morals and values that promote respect for yourself and others. That’s good for the whole of society.”

Daria believes that membership of The Boys’ Brigade & Girls’ Association has really helped build her confidence and given her a sense of belonging. She hopes that more young people like her will seek opportunities like those offered by BBGA.

She said:

“I can’t stress how much it helps you with your growth. Whether you like creative or arty activities, or are more sporty and competitive, there’s something for everyone. You just have to take a chance!”

Natalie Whipday, Director for The Boys’ Brigade England & Wales, said:

“I’m inspired by Daria and the countless other young women who are involved in The Boys’ Brigade.

“She embodies what we are all about – young people growing as individuals, making a difference to others and living their lives to the full.”

This year The Boys’ Brigade has received YUF grant funding which will help pilot initiatives to strengthen specific ways of working, including the organisation’s engagement with marginalised young people.

To find out more about the nearest opportunities to get involved as member or volunteer, please visit https://boys-brigade.org.uk/

Tags: IWD