A large audience recently enjoyed an evening feedback talk from Josh Proud and Jacob Heys, who in July completed a challenging week of leadership and character-building activities, sponsored annually by the Rotary Clubs of Northallerton and Northallerton Mowbray for over 20 years.
The two youngsters from Northallerton took part in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), a week-long residential course based at Hebden Hey Activity Centre near Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire. The course challenges youngsters to solve problems and to lead and work with other members of a team. Josh and Jacob described their experiences of bonding with other course members, undergoing rigorous physical and mental tests in teams, and developing skills of self-confidence, leadership and teamwork.
Josh is at school in Northallerton, while Jacob studies in Knaresborough. Both are members of 2337 Squadron RAF Air Cadets in Northallerton. They were accompanied for the talk by their RYLA mentors, Rosemary Wilkinson and Cindy Stephenson. Josh said “I intend to join the Royal Air Force, and this RYLA course has increased my confidence and determination to succeed in that aim.” Jacob added “I am so grateful for the experience of the course in terms of enhancing my self-confidence and preparing for my chosen career”.
Recruitment for the next courses in July and August 2025 starts this autumn. Candidates must be 16 or 17 at the time of the course. Contact secretary@northallertonrotary.org.uk for more information.
Photo: Left to right: Mentor Cindy Stephenson, David Ison (President of The Rotary Club of Northallerton), Josh Proud, Chris Horler (President of Northallerton Mowbray Rotary Club), Jacob Heys, and mentor Rosemary Wilkinson.
