RYLA

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA)

This international programme is designed to develop leadership skills in young people. RYLA participants attend a week-long workshop, focusing on leadership and personal development. The programme is organised and run by Rotarians who are successful business and professional people themselves.
Selection for RYLA publicly recognises the individual’s qualities as a leader in the community.
Participants must have left school and be aged between 21 to 26; sons and daughters of Rotarians are eligible.

RYLA usually runs from Saturday to Thursday.

There is an application process where we shortlist candidates for an interview. 

There is a cost to participate, however, Rotary Rotorua Sunrise can sponsor a large part of it. 

How to apply

To apply, please complete this application form with your details and a blurb about why you want to attend RYLA and what you think you will get out of it.

Find out more

You can find out more about here.

 

RYLA Experience – Cam Ingram

Rotorua Sunrise Rotary proudly sponsored 23-year-old Cam Ingram, Operations Lead at Lee Brothers, to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Cam described the week as one of the best experiences of his life, giving him tools to grow as a leader both at work and in the community.

Through inspiring guest speakers, teamwork challenges, and self-reflection, Cam gained valuable skills in communication, leadership styles, and public speaking. Highlights included learning about DISC profiling to improve workplace interactions, developing confidence in impromptu speaking, and taking away leadership principles such as humility, belonging, stewardship, and aroha from Sir David Moxon.

Cam says RYLA not only strengthened his leadership but also connected him with a network of lifelong friends and future volunteers. He looks forward to giving back to the community alongside his fellow RYLA 2025 participants.

 

Jordan’s Story – RYLA Scholarship Alumni  

Before attending RYLA, Jordan was hesitant about leadership courses, but taking the plunge turned out to be life-changing. The week pushed him out of his comfort zone, gave him confidence, and sparked a drive for ongoing personal growth.

Jordan says the tools and insights from RYLA are lifelong, and he highly recommends the programme to any young leader ready to challenge themselves and discover their potential.