Youth Programs

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.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive leadership experience for student that have completed their sophomore year. Organized by Rotary clubs and districts where you develop your skills as a leader while having fun and making connections. There is no cost to students or their families!

Over the weekend you’ll:

• Build communication and problem-solving skills

• Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader

• Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors

• Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action

• Have fun and form lasting friendships

Contact us for more info about how to apply!

The annual Rotary Speech Contest is open to any high school age child. There are several rounds and opportunities to advance to the regional district level while winning cash prizes along the way… up to $1,750 in total!

2026 Speech Contest Topic:

How can we be instruments of peace?

Prepare & deliver a five-minute speech, which relates this topic to your life, school, neighbors, and Rotary Values. Memorization not required. Details at https://rotary7850.org/sitepage/speech-contest/district-speech-contest

Prize levels

1. CLUB ROUND 1 - PRIZE $200

2. AREA ROUND 2 - PRIZE $300

3. DISTRICT ROUND 3 - PRIZE $500 for the Two Finalists

4. DISTRICT ROUND 4 - PRIZE $750 WINNER & $500 RUNNER-UP

DATES & LOCATIONS:

Round 1- Burlington Level

Saturday March 21, 9-10am
at AALV 20 Allen St. Burlington

Round 2 - Regional Level

Saturday March 28, 9-10:30am
at AALV 20 Allen St. Burlington

Round 3 - District Level
Date and Location TBD

Round 4 - Final Round

Two contestants from Round 3 will speak at District 7850 Conference held on Sat., June 13, 2026 at Hotel Estrimont, Orford (Quebec), Canada. Must have required documents for border crossing.

Imagination Library