It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Mel Ford, our dear friend, leader, mentor, and dedicated volunteer. Mel was a driving force behind the work of WAGGGS in learning and leadership development. Her contributions to the Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting movement were immeasurable, and her influence continues to shape the future of the organisation.
Mel’s involvement with WAGGGS began in 2013, when she represented the UK in a working group reviewing the educational programme policy and guidelines. Her significant contributions included the development of the Prepared to Learn, Prepared to Lead resource, which helped make WAGGGS’ values and methods more inclusive and accessible to all. Over the years, Mel continued to play a vital role at both the regional and global levels.
In her role as Lead Volunteer for the Learning and Leadership Development team, Mel guided many of WAGGGS’ most impactful projects. This included the 2019 Juliette Low Seminar, the development of the WAGGGS Leadership Model, and the establishment of key capacity building work. More recently, Mel played an integral role to the launch of the Growing and Learning initiative, designed to empower young women and leaders across the globe.
Alongside her extensive global contributions, Mel remained committed to Guiding at the local level, serving as County Commissioner for Girlguiding Sussex West. She balanced this dedication with a professional career as a radiographer and the responsibilities of being a mother, demonstrating exceptional organisation and dedication.
A Legacy of Recognition
Mel’s outstanding contributions were recognised through several prestigious awards, including the WAGGGS Medal of Service, The Europe Region Medal of Service award, the Silver Fish Award from Girl Guiding UK, and appointment as a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to young people. While these honours acknowledged her tireless efforts, they only scratched the surface of her true impact. Mel’s true influence was felt by every individual she mentored and inspired throughout her journey.
Supporting Future Leaders
In honour of Mel’s legacy, WAGGGS has established the Mel Ford Leadership Fund to continue supporting young women in their leadership journeys. Through generous donations, the fund aims to provide opportunities to young women who may not have access to them otherwise, with a particular focus on initiatives like the Juliette Low Seminar.
Mel’s vision for the fund was to ensure that it helped young women who would truly benefit from leadership development opportunities
Continuing Her Work
Mel’s legacy is rooted in her unwavering commitment to empowering young women and her passion for creating pathways to leadership. Her contributions will continue to inspire and guide the work of WAGGGS for many years to come, ensuring that the values she championed will continue to thrive in the lives of future generations of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.
As we reflect on Mel’s remarkable impact, we are reminded of the importance of the work she devoted her life to and the countless lives she touched. Her spirit lives on the work we carry forward and the leaders we continue to support.
Mel Ford will always be a part of WAGGGS, and her influence will continue to inspire us all.