Although not a sell-out, 65 members and guests, including the RYLA Awardees, attended a very informative dinner meeting. The evening was broken into 3 key segments; RYLA Report, Sam Lucas Live from Madagascar and of course last, but far from least, a delicious dinner. First-up, RYLA. St. Johns Rotary together with some key Corporate Sponsors, such as "New World Lunn Ave", and the "Intent Group", sponsored 8 participants at RYLA 2018. Unfortunately four of the Awardees were unable to attend, but the four who did attend; Malcolm, Ashleigh, Ojan and Ruby, were introduced by Tom S. All four, who also spoke on behalf of the other's shared some very personal stories of how the week has impacted on their lives. Statements that we have come to hear year after year, from all RYLA Awardees were; "It was a life changing experience" "It literally saved my life" "We've made life long friends" "Taught me that nothing is too hard to accomplish - if the front door is closed, use the back door" "Building a strong me, helping me build my own brand" "Remove labels and fight back if necessary" "I learnt the importance of having a strong foundation" ...and of course a huge thank you to the Rotary Club of St. Johns. The RYLA presentation ended with a video of the weeks activities, which included some very impressive footage shot from a drone. The Video was filmed and edited by Jono Ross, son of Rotay District RYLA fame, Peter Ross. Click "Read More" now for the onja update and more photos of the dinner meeting: |