Chairman Stan summarized Rotary International's history of RYLA, from its beginning in Australia. Our club has taken an active role in our district with Saadat, Stan and Dan being early District chairs.

In introducing Dan Doherty, Chair Stan noted he has been working with RYLA at the District level since 1992. Dan recounted that at that time leadership was based on training youth to be achievers and high performers for tomorrow. The content for success in those days was prescribed.

Returning to the before lunch task - issues affecting youth today - he commented that currently, RYLA is leadership-based on today and focuses on issues of the day, which may include such things as exclusion, alienation, drugs, sexual orientation, poverty in families, weapons in schools, gangs and criminal activity in communities.

He felt that currently, RYLA is empowering youth to deal with today's issues and to make change in the context of issues that are occurring in their current circumstances. He gave some specific examples of the type of current issues youth are experiencing and identifying and how the RYLA conference empowers them to discuss and make changes not only in their personal lives, but in their communities and schools.

Dan introduced Sadiq Valliani. Our club first met Sadiq several years ago in a RYPEN public speaking competition. He is now enrolled at Mount Royal University.

Sadiq has been a valuable leader through his assistance and involvement with the RYPEN and RYLA programs. His communication skills, enthusiasm, openness and confidence provide a model for other youth.

In speaking to the club, Sadiq said he feels strongly about RYLA as a program that allows each participant to feel comfortable about discussing personal issues that are relevant to them and finding practical means to take action for the future. It was noted that a majority of the participants apply to attend again as leaders, and that groups are being started in schools.

Sadiq expressed a most sincere "Thank You" for the work Rotary does and the opportunity it provides and the impact it has on youth through RYLA and RYPEN programs.

Mike Carlin thanked both Dan and Sadiq for their work and the commitment they continue to have to RYLA, on behalf of CWR.

reported by Jim Barnes