The iconic 'Hostess Badge', once a staple of the Girl Guides programme, has been quietly retired—and Generation Z is at the heart of the change. The decision reflects shifting attitudes towards traditional gender roles and the evolving priorities of young people today.
Out with the Old, In with the New
For decades, earning the Hostess Badge meant mastering skills like table setting, tea pouring, and polite conversation. But as society moves away from rigid stereotypes, Girlguiding UK has decided the badge no longer aligns with its modern values.
Instead, the organisation has introduced new badges focusing on digital skills, activism, and mental health awareness—topics that resonate far more with today's youth.
Why Gen Z Led the Change
Young members of the Girl Guides have been vocal about wanting activities that reflect their ambitions and interests. Many argue that traditional badges like 'Hostess' reinforced outdated expectations of women as homemakers rather than leaders.
'We want to prepare girls for the real world,' says a spokesperson for Girlguiding UK. 'That means equipping them with confidence, resilience, and skills that matter in 2024.'
A Broader Cultural Shift
The move is part of a wider trend among youth organisations to modernise their programmes. Scouts UK has similarly updated its badges to include coding, environmentalism, and entrepreneurship.
Critics argue that abandoning traditional badges erases valuable life skills. But supporters counter that adaptability is key to keeping organisations relevant in a fast-changing world.
One thing is clear: Gen Z isn't afraid to challenge tradition—and institutions are listening.
