We are active participants in the RYLA scheme and funded two more young people again last year.

On Tuesday 10 July 2019 Megan Parker and Megan Dixon Merrifield were
presented with their certificates by President Elect Graham Powell for attending the RYLA course in April, at
the High Ashurst Adventure Centre.
Both had enjoyed the experience immensely and through the role-plays and
leadership events have found new friendships.
Their parents who also attended the certificate giving, said that they had
noticed a big difference in their ability to make a presentation in front of
a group which they would not have considered possible previously. Their
presentation to us was very clear and precise. We wished them good luck for
their future studies and careers.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership program coordinated by Rotary Clubs around the globe. Each year, thousands of young people participate in this program. Young people ages 14–30 are sponsored by Rotary Clubs to attend the event run by the club’s district committee. Participants are chosen for their leadership potential. Rotary Clubs and the Rotary District cover all expenses for the participants. The format of the event vary from district to district, but commonly take the form of a seminar, camp, or workshop to discuss leadership skills and to learn those skills through practice. Rotary clubs and districts select participants and facilitate the event’s curriculum.

RYLA aims to:[1]

Demonstrate Rotary’s respect and concern for youth;
Provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders;
Encourage leadership of youth by youth;
Recognise publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities.
Every RYLA program covers the following core topics:[1]

Fundamentals of leadership
Ethics of positive leadership
Importance of communication skills in effective leadership
Problem-solving and conflict management
Rotary’s purpose and service to the community
Building self-confidence and self-esteem
Elements of community and global citizenship