Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, Takes On Girlguiding Patronage in Honour of Late Queen
The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie Wessex, has been bestowed with a new honour by King Charles, taking on the role of patron for Girlguiding, the UK’s largest youth organisation for girls. This prestigious title holds a personal connection to the late Queen Elizabeth, who served as the organisation's patron from 1953. Sophie’s appointment follows her 21-year tenure as president, a position previously held by Princess Margaret, Queen Elizabeth’s sister.
Duchess Sophie’s first engagement as patron will take place on Saturday, where she will join over 110 members of Girlguiding, including Brownies, Guides, and Rangers, at Brooklands Museum in Weybridge. During the event, attendees will participate in a special activity, making contact with the International Space Station.
In a statement, Sophie expressed her commitment to Girlguiding, emphasising her dedication to empowering girls to “find their voice, inspire them to discover the best in themselves, and make a positive difference in their community.”
This new role comes after Sophie earned the title of the hardest working royal, succeeding Princess Anne. Tracy Foster, Chief Guide of Girlguiding, expressed her delight at the Duchess’s new patronage, noting Sophie’s strong advocacy for gender equality and her unwavering support for girls and women.
