Inside WAGGGS’ digital revolution: connecting 153 member countries through Campfire

Manuela opened by describing a challenge familiar to many large organizations. WAGGGS had grown over decades, with different digital tools introduced at different times. Each team used its own systems. Content lived in separate platforms. Knowledge was scattered across email threads, shared drives and legacy portals. The result was what she called digital archipelagos. Islands of information that made collaboration harder and slowed down the work of staff, volunteers and members. WAGGGS needed a single place where people could come together, share resources and support the mission of empowering girls worldwide.

Campfire was created to meet that need. Manuela explained that the platform is more than a community space. It is an ecosystem designed to connect different parts of the organization. It supports communities of practice, leadership programs, working groups and cross-regional teams. It provides structured spaces where members can learn, collaborate and coordinate. By bringing these elements together Campfire strengthens the global identity of WAGGGS and helps reduce duplication of work.

A major theme in Manuela’s talk was the importance of integration. Digital transformation succeeds only when the core systems of an organization work together. WAGGGS needed Campfire to connect with its CRM, its analytics tools and its content systems. These integrations ensure that membership data stays consistent, that engagement insights link to organizational goals and that staff can find the information they need without searching across platforms. Manuela shared how this connected environment supports more coherent processes and clearer decision making.

She also emphasized the importance of governance. Large networks need clear roles and responsibilities. Without proper governance, digital platforms can become chaotic or lose value over time. Manuela described how WAGGGS created structures and policies that define who manages content, who moderates communities and how information flows across the platform. This clarity helps maintain quality and ensures that Campfire continues to support the organization’s mission. It also gives local groups and national organizations confidence that their contributions will be recognized and maintained.

Another insight from Manuela was the value of ownership. Digital transformation cannot succeed if people feel the platform is imposed on them. WAGGGS involved its members and stakeholders in the development of Campfire. They listened to needs, tested ideas and gathered feedback. This participatory approach helped build trust and encouraged adoption. Members began to see Campfire as their space. A space created for them and shaped around their needs. This sense of ownership strengthens engagement and supports long-term sustainability.

Manuela shared examples of how Campfire is helping WAGGGS run its global programs. Leadership initiatives now have dedicated spaces where participants can access resources, complete learning activities and connect with mentors. Working groups can store documents, track progress and coordinate tasks. Trainers and volunteers can find guidance and share best practices. Before Campfire, these activities were scattered across emails and separate tools. Now they live in a shared environment that helps teams work with greater clarity and efficiency.

She also highlighted how Campfire supports learning. WAGGGS has a rich history of educational programs and leadership development. Campfire brings these programs online in a way that keeps the values of the movement intact. Courses can be interactive. Discussions can stay within a trusted community. Resources can be updated and reused. By combining learning with community engagement, Campfire creates a more dynamic experience that supports ongoing growth.

Another part of Manuela’s talk focused on data. Understanding how people use the platform helps WAGGGS evaluate the impact of its programs and adjust strategies when needed. By integrating analytics tools, WAGGGS can track participation patterns and identify areas where members may need more support. These insights help shape better programs and ensure that resources reach the people who need them. They also support leadership decision-making and help the organization communicate its impact to partners and donors.

Manuela also spoke about the cultural side of digital transformation. Technology alone does not create change. People need time to adapt and learn. WAGGGS invested in training and support so that members could feel confident using Campfire. They created guides, onboarding experiences and help channels. This support helped communities transition smoothly and allowed them to focus on their work instead of struggling with tools.

In closing, Manuela reflected on what Campfire represents for the future of WAGGGS. It is not just a platform. It is a shared space where the movement can grow and collaborate with more unity and purpose. It helps the organization stay connected across continents and cultures. It strengthens the sense of belonging that is at the heart of the WAGGGS mission. By aligning digital tools with organizational values, WAGGGS is creating a sustainable foundation that supports girls and young women as they learn, lead and make change in their communities.

Manuela’s talk offered a clear example of how thoughtful digital transformation can support global collaboration. Campfire shows what becomes possible when an organization brings together governance, integration and community-centered design. For WAGGGS, it marks a new chapter in building a connected and empowered global movement.

‍