Photograph: President Burman meets RYLA. Photographs by Nathan Allen Photography.
RIBI President Ray Burman is continuing his pledge of being a hands-on president.
This week, he met a group of youngsters on the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) who are navigating the waterway through District 1060 Worcestershire and Warwickshire. President Burman helped their journey by working on one of the canal locks.
Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland (RIBI) is committed to flying the flag for young people across the country, offering incredible travelling opportunities and competitions. RYLA is a unique training experience where people aged between 18-30 have a chance to improve their leadership and communication skills.
Seven participants from across the globe, including the Czech Republic, Poland, Italy and Spain, are currently working together on the narrow-boat, learning about team-work, developing confidence and embracing other cultures during the three-week long adventure.
Lauren Beale, Rotary Club of Meriden near Connecticut, USA, says RYLA is a great experience: “The boat is very small so we definitely all have to work together. You get to know each other very quickly. I’m hoping to make friends from around the world and learn about cultures. I would say apply for RYLA, it’s an experience of a life-time. You don’t get to do this very often, it is really special.”
"Rotary in these islands is incredibly active." said President Burman."Meeting these youngsters just goes to show how much is on offer for everyone in Rotary. I have had a great time here today, chatting with everyone. They are all working together and talking about their cultures. Their confidence is inspiring."
Get involved! Whether you join your local Rotary club, RYLA or any of the great opportunities for young people, you will make new friends whilst developing great life skills such as self-confidence, teamworking and leadership.
Follow President Burman on his Facebook page.
