Rotary Youth Leadership Awards

Do you have what it takes to become a dynamic leader and change yourself and the world?

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs and districts where you develop your skills as a leader while having fun and making connections.

What are the benefits?

Connect with leaders in your community and around the world to:

  • Build communication and problem-solving skills
  • Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
  • Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors
  • Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action
  • Have fun and form lasting friendships

What’s involved?

RYLA events are organized locally by Rotary clubs and districts for participants ages 14-30. Depending on community needs, RYLA may take the form of a one-day seminar, a three-day retreat, or a weeklong camp. Typically, events last 3-10 days and include presentations, activities, and workshops covering a variety of topics.

Your community might host a RYLA event for secondary school students to hone their leadership potential, for university students to develop creative problem-solving strategies, or for young professionals to learn ethical business practices.

How can I participate?

RYLA participants are nominated by local Rotary clubs. Contact your local Rotary club to find out more about RYLA events in your area, how to apply, and any costs of getting involved.

RYLA is a five-day conference for sophomores in high school throughout the Hudson Valley, which teaches the importance of positivity, confidence and leadership.  Through unique icebreakers, fun-filled events, and interactive presentations from special guests, students walk away with countless memories and valuable knowledge - many RYLA alum have credited the conference with their success in college and in their careers.  RYLA continues to inspire students to shape their communities year after year.
 

RYLA 2022

Qualified candidates are high school students finishing their sophomore year who demonstrate the potential to benefit from a program designed to nurture and instill confidence in their leadership skills and abilities. The RYLA Team has altered the number of conferees that Rotary clubs can sponsor for RYLA 2022:  this year, each club may sponsor up to 3 conferees, and they may add up to 2 conferees to the waitlist. The cost is $450 per student.  
 

The deadline for applications is May 1, 2022.
Download the 2022 RYLA Application HERE.

 
For help with the application, the RYLA team made a video that you can check out here: https://vimeo.com/514084807