Youth Programs

Youth Exchange

Embark on a life-changing journey with Rotary Youth Exchange, a prestigious program by Rotary International that enables Year 10 or 11 high school students to live and study abroad for a full year. This immersive experience lets young people explore diverse cultures, forge lifelong friendships across approximately 60 countries, and gain a global perspective. By participating, students contribute to a vibrant community exchange, enhancing mutual understanding and inspiring personal growth that resonates back home.

Interested students please contact us for more details.

Rypen

(Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment)

Teenagers today benefit greatly from opportunities to develop "life skills" and motivation to help them cope with the challenges of a very competitive future.

Pressure is put on students to perform academically and their results are the benchmark of success. However other skills are needed for the next stage of a student's growth, be that further education or the workplace.

During an intensive residential weekend, young people aged approximately 14 to 16 years will develop increased motivation, improved life skills, better self-image, pride in themselves and an understanding of setting and achieving goals. At the same time, participants are interacting with peers from different backgrounds, and different parts of our district, improving their teamwork skills and having fun!! All this done in an informal atmosphere, where questions and debates are encouraged.

There are 2 RYPEN camps every year,

from a Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon

The summer camp is held in February at:

Sydney Academy of Sport (SAS)

Wakehurst Parkway, Narrabeen

The Winter Camp is held in June at

Christian Convention Centre Katoomba

Rotary Social Impact Network

Chair – Summer RYPEN

The Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment (RYPEN) is designed to resonate with the unique needs of today's youth by providing a dynamic and supportive environment where teenagers can develop crucial life skills. In a world where academic performance is often emphasized, RYPEN recognises the importance of holistic growth. The program empowers young people to build self-confidence, enhance their communication and leadership abilities, and foster a sense of responsibility and teamwork. By addressing these essential skills, RYPEN helps students navigate the challenges of their future, whether in further education or the workplace, all while encouraging personal growth and community engagement.

Participant Criteria:

Age: 14-16 years old
School Year: Students from years 8/10
Potential: Students with undeveloped potential
Focus: Aimed at students who need help developing leadership, initiative, and responsibility skills and often lack opportunities for expansion.

Need More information. https://rotarydistrict9685.org.au/page/rypen

RYLA

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) are a transformational 7-day program facilitated by Rotary, the world's leading volunteer service organisation. Open to young people with leadership potential based in North/North-West Sydney, the Blue Mountains and through to the Central Coast.

You won't find a detailed explanation of the program here because part of the experience is the element of surprise.

Participants are:

Between 18 and 30 years old

At least one year out of school

Available for the entire week in January

Need More information https://www.d9685ryla.org.au

MUNA

Australian National Model United Nations

MUNA is an annual two-day weekend event that is part of a global Rotary project to educate senior high school students (years 10 - 12) on the United Nations organisation and its vital commitment to world peace, in addition to health, education and living standards around the world. MUNA provides an excellent forum for students to develop and practice their public speaking skills whilst debating on topical world issues.

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbours, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

Rotary clubs are grass-roots volunteer service teams supported by local, regional, and international administrative networks of volunteers. District 9685 is the local support network for Rotary clubs from the Blue Mountains to the Northern Beaches to the Central Coast of NSW.

The first placed team in each region will be invited to compete at the Australian National Model United Nations

at the Old Parliament House in Canberra, with financial support from Rotary.

Interested to find out more

(then a button named ‘Learn More’) and behind the button https://www.muna.com.au/