Local lad shares insights gained

Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club

Helderberg Sunrise Rotary Club works with Gordon High, Parel Vallei High and Macassar High schools through sponsoring their Interact Clubs. These clubs serve as an introduction to Rotary for young people and encourage them to serve their local communities. We regularly send learners from each school to Rotary Youth Leadership camps (RYLA) and we were encouraged to receive the following report from Carry-on Bure, a Grade 10 learner from Gordon High, about his recent enriching experience.

RYLA Camp Review, by By Carry-on Bure

Dear Heldeberg Rotary Sunrise Community, I am thrilled to share with you my enriching experience at the recent RYLA Camp, where I had the privilege of joining a diverse group of individuals.

From March 21 to March 24, we embarked on a transformative journey of growth, learning, and camaraderie that left an indelible mark on each of us.

Upon our arrival, the warmth of camaraderie enveloped us as we were greeted by our team leaders and initiated into the RYLA experience by handing in our electronic devices and receiving our RYLA-branded t-shirts and caps.

The excitement was tangible as we adorned ourselves in our new attire and captured moments through photographs, marking the beginning of our unforgettable journey.

As we settled into our accommodations, back-to-the-hall- interactions with fellow camp participants began, fostering connections that would blossom over the course of our time together.

The diversity of backgrounds and experiences among us laid the foundation for a dynamic and enriching exchange of perspectives.

The inaugural day of the camp unfolded with a series of captivating activities, meticulously crafted to cultivate connection and communication among us.

From the light-hearted sharing of facts about ourselves using a bowl of sweets to the insightful exploration of listening skills, each moment underscored the importance of teamwork and leadership.

Furthermore, we were immersed in the rich history of Rotary and the genesis of RYLA, grounding us in the ethos of service and community.

Throughout the subsequent days, each activity served as a crucible for invaluable lessons.

Whether we were learning a new song or surmounting physical challenges, the underlying themes of trust, perseverance, and creative problem-solving resonated deeply.

Games challenged us to communicate effectively without words, highlighting the potency of nonverbal cues and the power of collaboration.

One poignant highlight was the Obstacle Challenge, a crucible where our leadership skills were put to the test.

Through collective collaboration and unwavering determination, we navigated through various obstacles, reinforcing the notion that trust is earned through action, and communication is the cornerstone of effective teamwork.

Reflecting on the culmination of the camp experience, I am brimming with gratitude for the profound connections forged and the invaluable lessons learned.

The friendships nurtured and the insights gleaned will serve as guiding lights as I endeavour to apply them in my personal and professional pursuits, championing positive change in my community and beyond.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to theHeldeberg Rotary Sunrise, and all those who made this experience possible, thank you for a life-changing adventure.

As I returned home, I carried with me not only fond memories but a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to pay it forward.

Let us continue to embody the spirit of Rotary, fostering fellowship and inspiring meaningful change in the world around us.

Lessons Learned:

1. The significance of teamwork and effective communication in fostering collaboration and achieving collective goals.

2. Trust is not given but earned through consistent actions and demonstrated reliability.

3. Perseverance in the face of challenges is key to personal and collective growth.

4. Creative problem-solving and thinking outside the box are essential skills in navigating complex situations.

5. The importance of embracing diversity and leveraging varied perspectives to drive innovation and understanding.

6. Leadership is not merely about authority but about inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential.

7. Service to the community is a noble endeavor that enriches both the giver and the recipient.

8. The value of lifelong learning and continuous self-improvement in realizing one’s potential and making a positive impact.

9. The transformative power of shared experiences in forging deep and lasting connections with others.

10. Gratitude is a powerful force that enriches our lives and strengthens our bonds with those around us.