For nine decades the Church Street Methodist church’s 1st Somerset West Girls’ Brigade Company has transformed young lives with an unwavering mission. Their mission is helping girls become devoted followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Through the timeless values of self-control, reverence and responsibility this remarkable organisation has grown into a beacon of hope. As a result, it has touched countless lives.
The Girls’ Brigade movement began in Dublin, Ireland in 1893, reaching South Africa in 1925. The 1st Somerset West Girls’ Brigade Company was established within the Church Street Methodist church in 1936. Therefore, it created a lasting legacy. Many girls progressed through the ranks to become officers and young leaders.
The organisation’s journey has been marked by significant international achievements. In 1984 young leader Rowena Adonis represented Girls’ Brigade South Africa at an international conference in Melbourne, Australia. The company celebrated its golden jubilee in 1986. Furthermore, the late 1990s brought further recognition. Three girl members – Janine-Lee Gordon, Tracey-Lee Simpson and Meryl Adonis – represented the organisation at an International Camp in Melbourne in 1998.
A pivotal transformation occurred when officer Nazleah Simons established a group in Garden Village, initially meeting at her home. Today, most of the company’s 30 members come from the Helderberg community. Additionally, weekly gatherings are held in the Garden Village Community Hall for safe, accessible participation.
Two of its exceptional leaders have been national presidents of the Girls’ Brigade South Africa – in 2006 Marina Sylvester (re-elected for a second term) and last year Cassandra Gabriel. The company has been shaped by dedicated leaders. These include past captains Helen Maclons, Dohl Simpson, Anne van Niekerk, Anne Gordon, Evelina Achilles, Joslyn Lyners, Rowena (Adonis) Durr and Sylvester.
“Our motto is to seek, serve and follow Christ Jesus. These founding principles remain constant, though our programmes have evolved with the times,” the organisation points out.
The comprehensive four-square programme encompasses spiritual, physical, educational and service elements, based on Luke 2:52: “And Jesus grew in body and wisdom, gaining favour with God and men”. This biblical foundation ensures holistic development. Furthermore, it connects physical growth, intellectual development, spiritual maturity and community relationships.
“The principles haven’t changed over nine decades because they remain relevant today, and only our methods have adapted to modern times.”
The Girls’ Brigade maintains strong commitment to community service through dedicated outreach programmes. “During September we dedicate our time to various outreach activities, such as visiting the elderly in our church community and the community of Garden Village, providing food parcels to the needy and giving encouragement to the sick.”
Notable projects include environmental initiatives like cleanup efforts in Garden Village and Strand Beach. Alongside these, there are regular visits to the elderly, orphaned, homeless and streetchildren.
The company actively participates in district and regional Girls’ Brigade events including jamborees, concerts and sports days.
Central to its success is fostering an inclusive environment where spiritual development flourishes. The organisation states: “No matter where one comes from, or who one is, we are a space where girls can come every week and be creative, knowing there are people who care about their well-being and spiritual growth.
“It develops holistical development of the girl child through the four-square programme. Over the decades we’ve shaped many women who are now leaders and caregivers in their communities.”
The company has persevered through challenging times and emerged stronger. “As the oldest living company on the continent, our legacy is built on resilience, innovation and unwavering commitment.”
Its weekly impact remains substantial, “nurturing the growth around 30 girls predominently from Garden Village”.
The Girls’ Brigade aims “to continue creating an enabling environment for this generation and the next of (primarily) girls and women to openly explore and engage with real life and Christian faith in a fun, informative and hopeful way”.
The key is also succession planning, “future leaders to… continue the work of God among children”.
The milestone anniversary will be marked with two special events, a family 5 km fun run and celebration service.
The fun run will be held on Saturday 28 March at 09:00 from Goedeverwachting Estate on Sir Lowry’s Pass Road. Registration costs R60 for adults, R30 for children (16 and under), with R10 general entry for non-participants. Refreshments will be on sale and there will be activities for children.
The service will be held at Church Street Methodist church later this year and will honour those who played significant roles in the organisation’s history. Afterwards, there will be a parade and party for current members.
Register for the walk online or email Cassandra on cassandra.gabriel@gmail.com.
