On Sunday 15th January 2023, after a three-year hiatus ,D9685 RYLA was finally able to be hosted, and the event certainly did not disappoint! With over 60 applicants joining in the experience from across the District the magic of RYLA was not lost after what felt like an eternity of roadblocks! RYLA was held at Knox Grammar (Wahroonga) and participants were treated to state of the art facilities, with beautifully prepared meals and dormitories. An outstanding venue to complicate an equally as outstanding program. Feedback from participants highlighted the life changing nature of RYLA and complimented the caliber of the D9685 RYLA program. A huge congratulations to all of the participants for taking a ‘leap of faith’ and investing in their own self-development. There was a moment there where the future of D9685 RYLA hung in the balance, facing a global pandemic and the shutdown of our long standing and loyal venue, at Elanora Heights. However, in true Rotary fashion D9685 RYLA weathered the storm to come back bigger and brighter than ever with a rejuvenated and passionate program! A huge thank you to all of the sponsoring D9685 clubs that pulled together to make this program a reality, without your tireless effort and support of the RYLA program the outcome may have been very different. It goes without saying that the lives of 60 + young leaders within the District have had their lives shifted for the better. A final thanks goes to the facilitators of the program who made the running of the week seamless! RYLA 2023 has set the trajectory for RYLA 2024, and we encourage clubs to keep the momentum up to ensure the longevity of this once in a lifetime experience for the young leaders of tomorrow!
Kiera Piper RYLA Coordinator
