Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership program coordinated by Rotary Clubs around the world. Each year thousands of young people participate in this program. Participants from the ages of 13 to 30 are chosen for their leadership potential. The programs are run by each Rotary district. The clubs cover all the expenses for the participants.
RYLA's program 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; and recognize publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities
The program covers the fundamentals leadership; ethics of positive leadership; importance of communication skills in effective leadership; problem solving and conflict management; Rotary's purpose and service to community; building self-confidence and self-esteem; elements of community and global citizenship.
Many participants become youth exchange students, Rotaract participants or Ambassadorial Scholars.