Friday

As delegates arrived in Toronto, the excitement and energy could be felt as old friends reunited and new friends were made. Registration continued throughout the day, with each participant’s photo displayed on a large map of the Western Hemisphere Region. 

After lunch, delegates received information on what was to come over the next five days. Everyone then gathered in the main hall for the opening ceremonies. A number of dignitaries and guests were present including the Mayor of Mississuaga, Hazel McCallion, and several officials from embassies and consuls of countries represented here.   

Myrtle Corkum, Chief Commissioner Girl Guides of Canada and Angela Dawson, Western Hemisphere Committee Chairman, opened the event. The colours were presented by Canadian Girl Guides who are participating in an Ontario Provincial Event (Impact 2007).

The girls performed several numbers including songs, a flag routine, a black light stick dance and a may pole. Guests then had an opportunity to mingle with delegates, opening their eyes to the diversity of the region. Young women attending a national leadership seminar for senior branches were also in attendance.   

An evening banquet and entertainment followed and guests enjoyed the opportunity to take a musical journey across as well as to learn and sing along with traditional folk songs.