Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders - RYLA 2026
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Saturday, March 7, 2026 • Penn State Malvern
Be the change you want to see in the world!
Rotary District 7450 is proud to host the 2026 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), a one-day leadership development experience designed for high-school sophomores and juniors across the Philadelphia region. This year’s program will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Penn State Malvern campus.
RYLA brings together young people who show curiosity, potential, and a desire to grow. The program is entirely free to participants, thanks to sponsorship from local Rotary Clubs throughout District 7450.
What Students Will Experience
RYLA is built to challenge, inspire, and equip students with practical skills they can use immediately in school, future careers, and community life. Throughout the day, participants will take part in team-based leadership activities, discussions on real-world issues, and hands-on challenges that help strengthen communication, resilience, and problem-solving.
A key session explores how social media choices can follow a person for years, helping students understand their online footprint and how it influences opportunities in the future. This year’s RYLA also introduces a collaborative career and life skills project where teams work together to design a positive, uplifting TikTok challenge. The day culminates with the presentation of the program’s signature honor: the GOAT Award, given to the team demonstrating the strongest leadership, creativity, and teamwork.
Of course, RYLA is not all workshops and presentations. Students will enjoy regular breaks, ample snacks, and a full lunch, creating plenty of opportunities for socializing and building meaningful connections. Many participants leave with new friendships, shared memories, and a stronger sense of belonging.
Why RYLA Matters
Every year, RYLA participants describe the experience the same way: eye-opening, energizing, and transformative. Students often arrive unsure of what to expect and leave feeling both exhausted and inspired. Many credit RYLA with helping them discover new strengths, break out of their comfort zones, and gain confidence in their ability to lead.
The skills students gain at RYLA—communication, collaboration, conflict resolution, and critical thinking—are highly valued by colleges, employers, and scholarship committees. Completing RYLA is an excellent addition to a résumé or college application and demonstrates initiative, character, and community-minded leadership.
Who Can Attend
RYLA 2026 is open to all 10th and 11th grade students in Rotary District 7450 and the surrounding region. No prior leadership experience is required. Students who are curious, motivated, or simply looking to grow will benefit from the program.
Participation is free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our District’s Rotary Clubs, who proudly invest in developing young leaders.
How to Get Involved
Parents, guardians, educators, and community members are encouraged to nominate students who would thrive in a supportive, engaging leadership environment. Students may also express their own interest in attending.
To learn more about RYLA 2026 or to inquire about registration, please contact your local Rotary Club or reach out to Stacey Ballard, 610-564-2723 or staceyballard@eadeh.com.
Rotary believes that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are leaders today. RYLA is our commitment to helping them recognize their potential, strengthen their voice, and step confidently into their future.
