Nearly 250 people attended the celebration of cultures at the Ismaili Jamatkhana in Glenview on April 9, 2017, as part of the local Girl Scouts’ World Thinking Day event.

 

Attendees visited stations about several countries, including Turkey, Morocco, Indonesia, Jamaica, Ireland, Germany, Syria, India and Sweden, through educational activities, and had their “passports” stamped.

 

“At this program, younger Girl Scouts learn from older Girl Scouts about another country’s food, games, crafts, songs and dance,” said Mary Anne Bolle, a longtime Girl Scout troop leader who has been organizing local World Thinking Day celebrations for 13 years. “In the political climate today, it is important for everyone to learn about the unique and fun aspects of various cultures so we don’t allow the unknown to cloud our perceptions.”

 

“This event gives the troops an opportunity to branch out and learn from other neighboring troops. It signifies a worldwide movement and a reason to come together and learn about other countries and cultures where Girl Scouts and Girls Guide exists,” said Sheila Gilani, leader for the Ismaili Girl Scout troop. “It also gives communities like ours the opportunity to establish stronger relationships with other school-based and faith-based troops.” With nearly 100 registered members, the Ismaili Girl Scouts range in age from 5 to 18.

 

World Thinking Day is a longstanding tradition, with Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from 146 countries celebrating it as a day of international friendship. It is also an opportunity to support girls as they travel internationally, connect with sister Girl Guides, and take action globally.