Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA)
RYLA is a Rotary-organised programme promoting youth leadership and catering to young aspiring leaders aged between 20-28. Since its inception in 1960, thousands of young people around the world have benefited from RYLA. Many have gone on to be outstanding leaders of their families, their businesses and the communities in which they live.
Delegates are sponsored either by a local Rotary Club, a local business, the business for whom they work or by private arrangements. We encourage businesses to promote their young leaders with a RYLA experience as the benefits are numerous and embrace all areas of the young person’s life.
The varied live-in week at RYLA has proved extraordinarily successful for many years. It provides an environment in which young people can develop their leadership, teamwork and communication skills. Many RYLA graduates have referred to the experience as “the week that changed my life”. Often the friendships made during the RYLA week develop into lifetime networks, benefiting the delegates in all areas of their lives.
Administered by Rotarians and facilitated by professional trainers, it targets young people aged 20-28 who may still be at university or already working. They do not need to be in a leadership role at this time.
The RYLA Programme
A varied programme is provided. It includes addresses, activities and group discussions. A wide range of topics and presenters are a feature and high quality presentations and relevance to leadership development is assured throughout the week.
The programme is based on the following themes:
Building a Foundation
Personal Leadership
Team Leadership
Social Leadership
Commercial Perspective
Community & Social Responsibility
Time will be allocated for recreation and exercise. The Rotary Club based selection ensures delegates cover a wide cross section of vocations and backgrounds. The common denominator is all delegates are selected because they have leadership qualities and /or skills.
RYLA is a wonderful opportunity for all clubs in our district to collectively recognise, inform and inspire worthy young people from our local district community and to enhance their futures.
“I am leaving RYLA with an increased focus on my goals and what I want to achieve. I have developed as a leader, personally and made lifelong friends.”
Rez Guardi, 2017 Young New Zealander of The Year
“Simply the best, most varied, challenging and innovative leadership forum I have ever had the privilege to attend. Incredible speakers, seamlessly organised. I have cherished every moment.”
Lauren
“The RYLA course was life changing for me. I have never been happier and more confident. I am able to move forward and do better for my life and the people around me.”
Kathie
“If you think you are already you best, RYLA can make you better.”
Jason
“A week full of energy, inspiration and eye openers. Absolutely incredible and life changing.”
Olivia
"RYLA was an incredible experience that armed me with the practical leadership skills I wouldn't have otherwise gained. I was so inspired by the people I met - presenters and facilitators."
Beatrice
Application
Applications are open for the 2025 RYLA hosted at Muriwai Beach Surf Club on Sunday 27 April 2025 to Saturday 3rd May 2025. Applicants MUST be 20 to 28 years old, as at 1st April 2025.
To begin your application process for RYLA, please fill in the form below. Once we have received your submission, we will get in touch to have a discussion about your application. If we determine that you are a promising candidate, we will then support you throughout the remaining steps of the application process.