District 9112 “RYLA Opening Ceremony” Highlights

The opening ceremony of the District 9112 Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) showed how captivating the entire program is set to be. The event surpassed all expectations and will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

Upon the arrival of the District Governor, Rtn. Lanre Adedoyin, along with his spouse, Mrs. Iyabo Adedoyin, and the team at the Sea School, they were warmly welcomed by the RYLA chairman, PAG Rotarian Tayo Adelaja, his team, and the Sea School officials.

The RYLA Team ensured that the entire experience at the opening ceremony was exceptional. From the exquisite food and comfortable ambiance to the high-quality speeches and training provided to the participants, designed to transform the lives of the rylarians as they leave the camp.

In his address, District Governor Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin assured the young leaders that they would be equipped with essential skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities that would significantly shape their futures. He encouraged participants to be bold, take risks, learn from one another, think creatively, and pursue their dreams, emphasizing that the world needs their innovative ideas, energy, and passion.

Similarly, Chair PAG Tayo Adelaja affirmed that the program aims to cultivate leaders who not only innovate but also drive meaningful and lasting change in their communities and beyond.

The RYLA opening ceremony featured amazing guest speakers such as Dr. Stephen Oshoke Enike, Jabirah Anike Bada, and Rtn. Hon Bosun Oladele, who provided valuable insights aligned with the RYLA theme, “Empowered to Innovate, Driven to Impact.”

It also included an engaging question-and-answer segment, where Rylarians had the opportunity to win cash prizes generously donated by Rotarians. Additionally, there was recognition and the presentation of awards to pace setters, RYLA pillars, and others.

Overall, the opening ceremony was truly impressive, and the upcoming closing ceremony promises to be equally noteworthy. It is scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 10, at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Institute (Sea School) in Apapa, Lagos.

The event, was attended by the District Rotaract Representative (DRR), Rotaractor Atitebi Ismail Abidoun, DG’s core team, including the District Executive Secretary PP Omotunde Olaleye, District Treasurer Rotarian Doyin Odutola, Chief of Staff PAG Akeem Sunmonu, and Special Assistant Desmond Otakponmwen.

Also in attendance was the IPDG Rtn. Femi Adenekan and his spouse Rtn. Tayo Adenekan, as well as past district governors and presidents, district leaders, fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and other distinguished guests.

Oge Nwabueze