Originating in 1959 in Queensland, Australia, RYLA was created as a festival highlighting local youth organized in honor of a royal visit by Princess Victoria. Through Rotarians’ constant belief in the potential of youth, RYLA has since become an opportunity to help the next generation of leaders define themselves and expand their skills. Officially adopted by Rotary International (RI) in 1971, this exciting program engages Rotary clubs and districts around the world. Each RYLA shares the following program objectives:

     ● To demonstrate Rotary’s respect and concern for youth

     ● To encourage and assist young people in responsible and effective voluntary youth leadership by providing them with a valuable training experience

     ● To foster continued and stronger leadership of youth by youth

     ● To publicly recognize the many young people who are rendering service to their communities as youth leaders

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The RYLA program in Rotary District 6170 has mentored countless students through its history and looks forward to years of fostering service minded young people who create change in the world.

RYLA emphasizes leadership, citizenship, and personal growth, and aims to:

● Demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for youth,

● Encourage leadership of youth by youth,

● Publicly recognize young people who are rendering service to their communities,

● Develop understanding of Rotary among youth participants,

● Allow Rotarian participants to serve as role models of Rotary ideals and programs,

● Reinforce and provide recognition for students’ efforts, accomplishments, skills and potential as leaders, and

● Develop leadership skills of youth participants with emphasis on:

     o Ethics of positive leadership,

     o Communication skills in leadership,

     o Leadership in problem solving and brainstorming,

     o Group dynamics and peer pressure,

     o Teamwork, and

     o Self-confidence and self-esteem.

If you are a high school sophomore or junior and you would like to participate, contact your local Rotary Club to see how they are choosing their students to participate. If you don't know your local Rotary club, you can message the district Facebook page.