Eighty-three learners from across the Western Cape recently converged at the Karmel campsite in the mountains outside Franschhoek for the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Among them were eight eager learners sponsored by the Rotary Club Waterfront, all looking forward to four days of adventure.

When parents, Rotary members, drivers, and school staff returned on Sunday, 27 September, to fetch the learners for the journey home, they were greeted by a buzz of excited voices engaging in their final activity before lunch. Closely-knit groups wearing matching, color-coded caps clustered together, sharing last-minute stories and reminiscing about their camp experiences. After receiving farewell letters from their group leaders, bags were packed into buses and cars, and following plenty of warm hugs and emotional goodbyes, the groups set off for home.

In a wonderful highlight for our club, Uthimna Ngcumse from Trafalgar High School was invited to return next year as a RYLA Youth Leader—marking the second young person sponsored by RC Waterfront to receive this honour in the past two years. Camp leaders David and Ethan expressed deep gratitude and praise for an exceptionally well-executed camp, applauding the learners for their outstanding conduct and enthusiastic participation throughout the weekend.

On the bus ride home, the learners eagerly shared their personal takeaways. Some highlighted Saturday evening’s dance as their favourite memory, while others pointed to the mountain hike and river swimming. However, the golden thread running through every story was the joy of new friendships, the sense of safety found in strong teamwork, and a deeper understanding of themselves. As one young girl shared—her face beaming with pride—she discovered strengths and capabilities within herself that she never knew existed.

Learners who had also attended the Adventures into Citizenship (AIC) program noted that while AIC focuses heavily on career guidance and future planning.

Left: RYLA participants before deparure on Sunday: Learners who had also attended the Adventures into Citizenship (AIC) program noted that while AIC focuses heavily on career guidance and future planning, RYLA was far more physically demanding and kept them constantly engaged on a personal level. RYLA truly delivers on its promise of fostering self-discovery, leadership, and personal awareness.

The Rotary organizers did Rotary proud, continuing to make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of our youth. 👏👏👏 (Special thanks to Tony.)