Lydia heads to South Korea for climate-focused Guiding adventure
Year 10 student Lydia Harris is preparing for the trip of a lifetime this summer, as she sets off to South Korea with a group of Girl Guides from across the UK.
Lydia, a member of 3rd Arnside Guides, was invited to apply for the international opportunity by her leader, Sue Jackson. After a competitive selection process, she earned a place on the trip — which has a strong focus on environmental sustainability and cultural exchange.
“I wanted to go because the trip challenged us to plan our travel and achieve our goals while being carbon neutral,” said Lydia. “I’m really passionate about the environment and climate change, so it felt like the perfect opportunity.”
Lydia will travel with 14 other Guides, Rangers and Young Leaders aged 14–18. While in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, the group will immerse themselves in local culture — from sampling traditional foods and wearing traditional clothing to learning about the country’s approach to reducing its carbon footprint. The experience will also include a taste of K-pop culture and visits to historic villages.
To fund the £2,200 cost of the trip, Lydia launched a creative and determined fundraising campaign. She wrote to charities and guiding organisations for support, and organised events for local Brownie and Guide units. She also held cake sales, ran craft stalls, sold eggs, and even handmade 12 Christmas trees for her local church.
“My most successful fundraiser was a cake sale at a local history event where I raised £300,” she said. “But my favourite was running a Korean-themed night for the Brownies — they made traditional drums, ate Maltesers with chopsticks, and coloured in hanbok, which is traditional Korean dress.”
Despite a packed schedule, Lydia managed her time cleverly — often making macrame crafts in the car on the way to and from school and activities.
“It’s been hard work, but I’m proud to have earned this opportunity. I’ve only flown once before — just to Spain with my family — so flying alone to another continent is a bit scary!”
As she prepares to represent her community abroad, Lydia is looking forward to learning more about South Korean culture — and about herself.
“I hope I grow in confidence and gain a better understanding of different ways of life,” she said.
Everyone at Dallam is incredibly proud of Lydia’s achievement and wishes her all the best on her South Korean adventure.
