What is RYLA?

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an international program that was created by Rotary International to encourage strong leadership in youth. Young people chosen for their leadership potential attend an all-expenses-paid camp to develop and enhance leadership skills through activities conducted in an atmosphere of trust and respect.

RYLA aims to teach what it takes to be an effective leader.  Every RYLA includes the following topics:

Fundamentals of leadership
Ethics of positive leadership
Importance of communication skills in effective leadership
Conflict management and problem solving
Building self-esteem and self confidence
Elements of community and global citizenship
Rotary's purpose of service to the community and world

RYLA began in Rotary District 5340 in 1972 with 100 participants and has since grown to include more than 300 participants annually. Outstanding student leaders are chosen each year to participate in a three day leadership camp at Idyllwild Pines in Idyllwild, California. RYLA 2013 will be held from Friday, April 19th to Sunday, April 21st, 2013.

Rotary District 5340 is looking for outstanding young leaders and potential leaders from local high schools to apply for RYLA. Applicants must be juniors in high school and should have some or all of these characteristics: A good academic record, school involvement, participation in non-school related activities, and work experience. If you are selected to participate in RYLA, you will have the opportunity to discuss leadership and career opportunities and to exchange ideas about current issues with knowledgeable regional and local leaders, including many District 5340 Rotarians.