Posted by Ian Ballantine on Aug 03, 2026
RYLA stands for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, an intensive leadership training program for young people aged 14 to 30, sponsored and organized by local Rotary Clubs and districts.
 
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) are events for participants ages 14-30 to learn how to become dynamic leaders and change themselves 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.
 
Stories from BMC website HERE.
Program Overview
  • Goal: Build leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Format: Ranges from a 1-day seminar to a weeklong camp or retreat.
  • Activities: Includes workshops, team-building simulations, and outdoor challenges.
  • Cost: Usually provided at no cost to the selected participants, as local Rotary clubs sponsor the fees.
    Participant Focus
    • Ages 14–18: Focuses on personal growth and secondary school leadership.
    • Ages 19–30: Focuses on professional ethics, creative problem-solving, and community impact.

      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.

      Stories from BMC website HERE.