There are experiences that leave a quiet yet powerful mark on your heart moments that don't scream for attention but gently change the way you see the world. My time as an "Ate" (older sister) during a Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) training was exactly that. As someone who never had a younger brother or sister, the opportunity to bond with these little girls was more than just a leadership role it was a rare privilege, a deeply emotional experience, and a heartwarming discovery.
When I first stepped into the world of GSP as a trainer, I was excited to teach. I was ready to pass on knowledge, guide the little ones in learning the Girl Scout Promise, and help them tie their first knots or do their first team activity. What I didn’t expect, however, was the amount of laughter, joy, and emotional connection that would bloom so naturally between us.
The Joy of Being an "Ate"
I didn’t grow up with siblings. I’ve often wondered what it’s like to have someone younger look up to you, or someone older to guide you. That’s why stepping into the role of an "Ate" at the GSP training camp felt incredibly special to me. These little girls, most of whom I was meeting for the first time, quickly found a place in my heart.
They would run to me to tie their scarves, proudly show off their drawings, and call out “Ate!” every time they needed help or just wanted to share something funny. And while I was technically the one assigned to guide and mentor them, I found myself learning so much more from them than I ever expected.
From their laughter to their wide eyed curiosity, they reminded me how beautiful and exciting it is to discover the world. Every question they asked, no matter how simple, was filled with genuine wonder. Every time they giggled during a group activity or pulled me aside to tell me a “secret,” I felt the connection deepen.
Laughter That Filled the Air
One of the best things about being around kids is how freely they laugh. And laugh we did. Whether it was during our messy attempts at knot-tying, our hilarious patrol chants, or when someone accidentally wore their cap backward the entire day without noticing we found joy in the little things.
There was one moment I’ll never forget. We were playing a simple game that required teamwork and communication, and one of the groups kept getting the instructions hilariously wrong. Instead of getting frustrated, the girls burst out laughing every time they messed up and so did I. It was laughter without judgment, the kind that heals and connects. In that moment, we weren’t “trainor” and “trainees” we were just a bunch of sisters enjoying each other’s company.
Teaching, Guiding, and Growing Together
Beyond the fun and games, there was real growth happening both for them and for me. We went through the Girl Scout basics together learning the Girl Scout Promise and Law, understanding the values behind them, and translating those values into small, everyday actions.
I watched the girls learn how to be responsible taking turns, cleaning up after activities, helping each other with tasks. I saw them practice kindness not just in what they said, but in how they listened and looked out for one another. I saw shy girls step up to lead and confident girls step back to encourage others.
And through it all, I was growing too. Learning patience. Learning how to communicate more clearly. Learning how to lead with gentleness. And most of all, learning how important it is to simply be there to be present, to listen, to celebrate small victories.
A Privilege and a Gift
I don’t take the word “privilege” lightly. To me, being an "Ate" during this GSP experience was truly that a privilege. It was a gift to be trusted by these little ones. A gift to witness their first steps in a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. A gift to know that, in some small way, I was a part of their growth.
I remember one evening, after we wrapped up the activities for the day, one of the girls tugged on my hand and asked, “Ate, can you be my sister?” I smiled, nodded, and knelt down to hug her. “I already am,” I said. And I meant it.
In that moment, I realized something profound you don’t need to be related by blood to be family. These girls, even if just for a few days, became my little sisters. They welcomed me into their world with so much trust and love, and in return, they found a permanent home in my heart.
Carrying the Experience Forward
As I look back on this first GSP training, I’m filled with gratitude. It wasn’t just about teaching scouting skills it was about forming bonds, building confidence, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
I may not have grown up with siblings, but this experience gave me a glimpse into what it's like to have many little sisters all at once. It gave me the joy of being an "Ate"someone to lean on, learn from, and laugh with.
These girls reminded me of the importance of showing up with heart. That real leadership isn’t about titles or tasks it’s about presence, kindness, and connection.
Looking Ahead
I know this is just the beginning. There will be more trainings, more camps, more kids to guide and I can’t wait. If my first experience taught me anything, it’s that the smallest gestures often create the biggest impact.
To all the little Girl Scouts I met thank you for trusting me, for making me laugh, for making me feel like an Ate even when I didn’t know what I was doing. And to anyone out there thinking about volunteering with GSP or becoming a mentor do it. You might be surprised by how much love and laughter is waiting for you.
In the end, I came to teach but I walked away with dozens of tiny sisters, a heart full of joy, and a lifelong memory of what it means to truly connect.