Meet the Chief

We’re delighted that Tracy Foster, Chief Guide, has appointed Elaine Doran as our new Chief Commissioner Designate. With a lifelong love of Guiding and a real passion for supporting volunteers, Elaine steps into the role with energy, warmth, and a clear vision for the future. We caught up with her to learn more about her journey - and to discover a few fun facts along the way.


What does the role of Chief Commissioner mean to you?

I feel very proud and privileged to have been entrusted with this role. I really believe in Girlguiding as an organisation and what we do. Having been involved in the restructuring and governance review as County Commissioner, I now want to build on the fantastic building blocks that Debbie and the rest of the team have put in place.


Elaine Chief pic

Is there a guiding moment that shaped who you are today?

I really enjoy all the small moments: watching girls grow in confidence or achieve something they didn’t think was possible. I think a better question here is, who in guiding has shaped me. There have been many amazing women along this journey but June Callaghan – affectionally known as Mrs C had a big impact.


How did your own guiding journey begin?

I started my guiding journey many years ago as a Brownie and then a Guide. After a little break, I returned as a Young Leader with Killicomaine Guides and completed my Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award with the Rangers. I then completed my Adult Leadership Qualification as I moved into adult leadership.

Describe becoming Chief in 3 words

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Challenging. Exciting. Supported.

Looking Ahead

What are your top priorities for Girlguiding Ulster over the next few years?

  • Focus on growth
  • Increase our capacity to deliver international opportunities
  • Make volunteering easy to bring more opportunities to more girls

How do you hope to support and empower volunteers across GGU?

I want volunteers to feel appreciated, listened to, and connected. My aim is to make sure everyone has the tools, training, and encouragement they need. Volunteering should be fun and manageable, and I want to help make that a reality.

Fun Facts

If you could relive one Guiding event, what would it be and why?

Any camp or holiday where the rain held off!! The girls were buzzing with excitement, and everyone went home tired but happy. Those moments remind me why Guiding is so special

Tea or coffee at camp?

Tea — I hate coffee!

If you could invent a new badge, what would it be?

After the month we have had here in Northern Ireland – this one seems appropriate - The “Rain? What Rain?” Badge – getting outside no matter the weather deserves a badge I think!!

Tell us one thing about you that might surprise people.

I’m terrified of heights… or maybe it’s really a fear of falling!

What message would you like to share with girls and volunteers across GGU as you begin your role?

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I’m really looking forward to meeting as many of you as possible and working together to keep Guiding fun and full of opportunities. Every girl and every volunteer brings something unique to our organisation, and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together.

Welcome to the role, Elaine!


We’re thrilled to have you lead Girlguiding Ulster and can’t wait for the journey ahead.