JOINING Girl Guides has transformed Alexis Laidler from a shy girl into a life-of-the-party young woman.

She hopes becoming the face of Gayndah Orange Festival 2019 will allow her to empower other girls to come out of their shells too.

On Friday afternoon Gayndah Girl Guides hosted a disco, raising money to help Miss Laidler with her mission.

"I came into guiding as a child when I was very shy,” she said.

"I wasn't a social kid but now that's what people know me for. I'm a very happy-go-lucky, social person that loves to have fun with people.

"And that's one of the biggest perks of guiding, you make friends and connections. I have friends internationally because of Girl Guides.”

Miss Laidler decided a disco was the perfect way to raise funds for the Orange Festival competition.

Held at Gayndah RSL Hall on Friday night, the western-themed disco brought in both high school and primary school students.

"When I was in high school I was on the school council's activities committee so I would organise the socials,” she said.

"Girl Guides is oriented around children so this is a great way to show the community a bit about us.

"I don't think Guides is as heard of now as it once was.”

With the help of her grandmother Irene Law, Miss Laidler will continue to raise funds for the competition through raffles.

Fellow entrant Taylor McCosker will host her fundraiser this Saturday at Gayndah Golf Club.

The Orange Festival will be held from May 4 to May 6.