What is RYLA

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership program coordinated by Rotary Clubs across the globe. Young people (usually Rotaractors) are sponsored by Rotary Clubs to attend such events, in line with the Rotary goal of investing in New Generation and the Rotaract goal of deveoping professional and leadership skills.

Participants are chosen for their leadership potential. The format of the various RYLA events vary, 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:

• 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.

RYLA programs usually cover the following core topics:

• 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