Empowering young leaders

Dear fellow Rotarians,

As we embrace the vibrant spirit of May, we are reminded that it is not just another month on Rotary’s calendar, but rather a time of profound significance. May heralds the arrival of Youth Service month — a time when we celebrate the invaluable contributions and boundless potential of our young leaders within the Rotary family.

Rotary believes in developing the next generation of leaders. Our programmes help young leaders in building leadership skills, expand education and learn the value of service.

Currently under youth service, we involve youth right from age 12 through Interact clubs. Under RYLA, we want young people to learn new skills, build confidence and have fun, and of course we have the Youth Exchange programme and Rotaract.

The young generation brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a passion for service that invigorates our communities and inspires us all. By empowering our youth, we ensure a sustainable legacy of service and leadership for generations to come.

To honour and empower our young leaders during this special month, here are four ways to celebrate the Youth Service month:

• Recognition events: Gather to recognise the remarkable achievements and contributions of our youth leaders, shining a spotlight on their impactful work.
• Youth-led projects: Support and participate in service projects initiated and led by our youth members, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
• Mentorship programmes: Establish mentorship programmes pairing experienced Rotarians with young leaders, providing guidance and leadership development opportunities.
• Leadership workshops: Organise workshops and training sessions focused on developing leadership skills among our youth participants, empowering them to drive positive change.

Let us embrace the Youth Service month with enthusiasm and dedication, reaffirming our commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Together, we can create a brighter future for Rotary and the communities we serve.

Anirudha Roychowdhury
RI Director, 2023–25