Youth Service is Rotary’s 5th Avenue of Service, alongside Community, International, Vocational, and Club Service. It empowers young people and emerging leaders through a wide range of development programs — fostering leadership, cultural understanding, and personal growth.
🤝 Interact – High School Leadership (Ages 13–18)
Interact Clubs are school-based or community-based clubs that help young people:
- Have fun while making a difference
- Organise two service projects each year: one local, one international
- Learn leadership and teamwork in a supportive environment
🔥 RYLA – Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (Ages 18–28)
RYLA is a week-long leadership development camp held every January.
Participants explore:
- Personal growth, leadership, and team dynamics
- Conflict resolution and public speaking
- Problem-solving and self-awareness
Most sessions are led by young facilitators who are past RYLA participants — mentoring the next generation of leaders.
🎉 RYPEN – Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment (Ages 14–17)
RYPEN is a weekend camp held twice a year (May and September), aimed at high school students.
With a theme of “fun with purpose”, it focuses on:
- Building confidence and communication
- Developing teamwork and leadership skills
- Self-awareness and motivation
Each camp is run by a team of enthusiastic facilitators — often past RYLArians continuing their leadership journey.
🌍 Rotary Youth Exchange – Global Learning Experience
A transformative year-long exchange where high school students live with host families overseas while attending school.
Benefits include:
- Cultural immersion
- Personal growth and independence
- Lifelong global friendships
🧪 National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) – Future STEM Leaders
A 12-day residential program in January for Year 12 students passionate about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths).
Participants:
- Explore science careers and meet industry leaders
- Develop communication, teamwork, and leadership skills
- Engage in hands-on lab work, workshops, and networking
NYSF also encourages students to embrace arts, sports, and community involvement — for a well-rounded future.
💜 Camp Opportunity – Empowering Young Adults with Disabilities (Ages 18–35)
A week-long live-in camp held each January at Point Walter Recreation Centre.
Each camper with a disability is paired with a volunteer “Buddy” for a week of inclusive fun, including:
- 🎯 Archery, 🧗 Abseiling, 🛶 Water sports
- 🎤 Karaoke, 🎳 Bowling, 🎉 Disco nights
This experience fosters understanding, empathy, and friendship for both campers and buddies.
We recruit participants through Rotary clubs, local disability organisations, schools, universities, and community networks.
If you can’t find a Camper or Buddy, you can also sponsor a place — we’ll match your contribution with someone in need.