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YOUTH PROGRAMS OVERVIEW
 
Rotary recognises the importance of empowering youth and young professionals through leadership programs and those that enhance international awareness and understanding.
 
Read below for details of individual programs that are offered by our District, along with links to details on partner programs supported by Rotary Clubs around Australia.


 
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LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT
 
APPLICATIONS OPEN
RYPEN (Year 8-10)
 
Next Camp: 13-15 Jun 2025
Cost: $385
 
RYPEN is a residential camp that takes place over 2.5 days and is designed for school students aged between 14-16 (Year 8-10) that focuses on the development of self-concept, relationships, and is designed to develop skills that will assist them in the transition to adulthood.
 
APPLICATIONS CLOSED
RYTS (Year 11-12)
 
Next Camp: TBC
Cost: TBC
 
RYTS is a leadership & development program with a focus on assisting the transition from study into the next phase of life. The program is delivered at a 6 day residential camp for students who are in the senior years of school (Year 11-12) or who are aged between 17-18 if not within a school system.
 
APPLICATIONS CLOSED
RYLA (Ages 19-29)
 
Next Camp: TBC
Cost: TBC
 
RYLA is a personal, professional development seminar program for young people aged between 19-29. The program is delivered at a 6 day residential camp. It focuses on enhancing leadership, communication, motivation, teamwork and interpersonal skills as well as building self-awareness of mental health and well-being, knowledge of a sense of community and a sense of belonging.
 
 
 
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INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE & AWARENESS
 
APPLICATIONS OPEN
Rotary Youth Exchange
(RYE)
 
Next Program: 2026 Long Term
Cost: Varies
 
RYE provides opportunity for long and short-term international exchange with another country for students 15 to 18 years old to immerse themselves in another culture, learn a new language, and develop their skills as leaders and global citizens.  Students are hosted by a local Rotary club, attend school in their host country for up to a full academic year, and stay with two or more host families for that period.
 
 
 
APPLICATIONS OPEN
Model United Nations Assembly
(MUNA)
 
Next Program: 3 May 2025
Cost: $400
 
For teams of Year 11-12 students, MUNA is a one day event that encourages them to learn about other nations and to understand and appreciate the workings of the United Nations while they develop debating skills and gain self-confidence in public speaking.
 
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PARTNER PROGRAMS
Rotary is a partner / supporter of a number of programs that encourage students of various ages to explore their interest in studying Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) subjects beyond secondary school.  Please click on the links below to head to the external website of each program for more information on program dates, locations and cost. 
 
 
Rotary also partners with Road Safety Education to deliver the RYDA program that features a highly engaging and memorable one-day workshop which front-loads students’ understanding of road safety and gives them the tools, habits and motivation to take action and stay safe on our roads as both drivers and passengers throughout their lives.
 
Finally, Rotary also partners with the Windeward Bound Trust to deliver Youth Development Sail Training.  The program is designed for young people aged 14-18 to learn the skills to sail a square-rigged tall ship. They will keep watch and take the helm, help in the galley, learn to navigate using the ship’s charts and climb the 24-metre mast to set and furl the sails.  They will learn how to work in a team and learn that teamwork and communication can overcome all obstacles. 
 
Your local Rotary or Rotaract Club (a list of clubs and contacts can be found here) may be able to assist with sponsorship and support for attendance at these programs