Hsi Lai Girl Scouts Hold Opening and Advancement Ceremony, Ushering in a New Milestone

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple
September 19, 2025

On August 31, 2025, the Hsi Lai Girl Scouts (Troop 18894) gathered in the Assembly Hall at Hsi Lai Temple for their annual Opening and Adcancement Ceremony. About 40 members and parents came together to kick off the new school year and celebrate key milestones for the troop.

The event was warm and inviting, hosted by members Yuhan Wu and Evelyn Tse. With confidence and grace, they guided the program and shared their personal Girl Scout journeys. Evelyn, a two-time recipient of the Presidential Volunteer Service Gold Award, described how service taught her planning, teamwork, and leadership. Fellow scout Vanlisa Sok reflected on experiences like coastal clean-ups, Christmas gift wrapping, and Rose Parade float decorating, encouraging peers to embrace challenges and grow.

A slideshow highlighted the past year’s learning and service activities. The troop also introduced its seven new Troop Leaders for the school year: Ms. Jocelyn, Ms. Katy, Ms. Tracy, Ms. Hanna, Ms. Ly, Mr. Joey, and Ms. Inmi, with Mr. Joey and Ms. Inmi joining for the first time. Attendees expressed gratitude for their dedication and looked forward to their guidance in the year ahead.

Monastic Advisor Venerable Zhi Qian offered remarks, sharing her own experience as a Girl Scout in her youth. She praised the troop’s growth and encouraged members to participate actively, plan events, and help maintain the troop’s warm, supportive community.

The highlight of the day came with the promotion ceremony. Four new members—Riley Wu, Lexie Wu, Emma Wu, and Emily Tham—were welcomed into the troop, marking the start of their Girl Scout journey. Sixteen returning members received annual badges recognizing their dedication and perseverance. Each scout took turns reciting the Girl Scout Law and lighting a candle, symbolizing the passing on of the Girl Scout spirit.

The ceremony concluded with four members—Sky Dodson, Jocelin Huang, Charlotte Chao, and Chloe French—earning promotions, moving forward to higher goals in learning and service. Applause filled the hall as parents captured the moment in photos.

More than just a ceremony, the event embodied the continuity of Girl Scout values. Each badge, each promotion reflected the scouts’ commitment to learning, serving the community, and growing as individuals. The day ended in a joyful and heartwarming atmosphere.