Empowering Youth Through Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA)
Rotary International's renowned program, the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA), continues to shape young leaders by offering a platform for physical and intellectual growth.
RYLA provides young individuals with a unique opportunity to engage in a series of activities aimed at fostering essential skills such as teamwork, positive leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. These skills serve as the foundation for building self-confidence and self-esteem, crucial attributes for responsible and global citizenship.
The objectives of RYLA are multi-faceted. Firstly, it showcases Rotary's dedication to nurturing and empowering the youth. Secondly, it provides an effective training ground for potential leaders, encouraging leadership by and for youth themselves. Moreover, RYLA aims to publicly recognise young individuals who contribute to their communities through service.
Every RYLA program encompasses core topics including leadership fundamentals, ethical leadership, communication skills, problem-solving, community service, and global citizenship. These elements combine to provide participants with a holistic learning experience. Rotary District 1100 hold the residential course which is located in the village of Parkend in the beautiful Forest of Dean.
Reflecting on the impact of RYLA, a participant sponsored by Bristol Breakfast Club described his experience as transformative and allowed him to gain an apprenticeship with a large news organisation where he later won their apprentice of the year award. He emphasised the importance of the journey, highlighting that true growth and learning occur along the way.
Rotarian Nigel Harradine representing the Bristol Breakfast Rotary Club, says “The club is thrilled to be part of the RYLA programme and that we strongly believe that involving young people actively and comprehensively as service partners enhances our public value to the entire community."
Nigel’s sentiments echo the essence of RYLA – to empower youth, involve them in meaningful service, and equip them with the skills necessary to thrive as responsible citizens. Through initiatives like RYLA, Rotary Clubs worldwide continue to invest in the next generation of leaders, fostering positive change and making a lasting impact on communities.