Rotary Youth Leadership Awards – July 2025

Once again the Storey Arms hosted 36 young people (aged 16 and 17) during the final week of July 2025. This was the first of three consecutive weeks of leadership training arranged at the outdoor centre by Rotary District 1150 in the South Wales Brecon Beacons.

Our sincere thanks go to Rotarians Rob Fry and Haley Ridge-Evans for their dedication in organising this event.

Three students who completed the week of activities were Winnie Chaney and Lila Jukes from Beaminster School and Emily Matterface from The Sir John Colfox Academy.

When asked “How was it for you?”, Lila replied “One of the best weeks of my life. Surrounded by amazing people and doing amazing activities.”

Winnie said “It was a lovely experience where I got to learn new skills, how to lead a group and made loads of new friends from around England and Wales!”

Emily' responded "I had the most incredible week and learnt many leadership, communication and teamwork skills from the various actives which included; caving, canoeing and gorge walking. The friendships made through this experience have been amazing and we have already arranged to meet up. I truly thank Rotary for the opportunity

The students will give a feedback presentation to a joint meeting of Brit Valley and Bridport Rotary Clubs at Haddon House Hotel on Wednesday 24 September. No doubt they will endeavour to convince us to support willing year 11 candidates for the next year's RYLA challenge. Based on past feedbacks they are most likely to succeed!

The two Bridport Rotary Clubs have sponsored local students for many years and have seen the benefit in the development of the young people who have put themselves through the physical and leadership challenges.