This week Sam Wong introduced our four 2016 RYLA students who proceeded to inform us of their experiences attending the RYLA convention this year. On arrival  the one hundred students attending were separated into colour coded groups of 20. Each group bonded quickly,  meeting together as a whole group for meals and in the evening.

 

The four students were: 

Richard Fenton, Grade 12 from the John Oliver School

Justin Wong , Grade 10, Point Grey Mini School

Justine Charleston, Grade 11, Magee High

Elena Hanson, Grade 10, Prince of Wales

 

In each case they expressed how much they enjoyed and benefited from their  experience.  They remarked on the dedication of their young counsellors, some even younger than were they, whose instruction was given with so much enthusiasm, playfulness and camaraderie.    

   

All four expressed their thanks to the Rotary Club for an incredible experience, of making new friends, with, as Elena remarked, amazement to find others wishing to make the world a better place. She also mentioned her pleasure in the new games she learned and how it helped in bonding the group. Justin stressed his delight in discovering Public Speaking.  Richard discovered how privileged he was to have grown up with enough water, good food and education, with which they all agreed. He hoped to start an Interact club in his community.   In addition they appreciated the atmosphere of openness, acceptance and non judgemental behaviour.  Meanwhile Justine set up and showed a colourful video of their very active weekend.

In answering questions, they all agreed the RYLA programme needed no improvement. 

They thanked Rotary for having been chosen to participate and will definitely recommend the experience to others.