February 18, 2026: This spring, the Rotary Club of West Ottawa will sponsor two exceptional students for fully funded national leadership experiences: one through an immersive leadership camp in Eastern Ontario, and one through a nationally recognized civic engagement program in Ottawa. With firm deadlines approaching and one sponsored space available for each opportunity, students are encouraged to review the details carefully and apply early.
Each year, Rotary invests in young people who demonstrate leadership potential and a desire to contribute meaningfully to their communities. In 2026, the Rotary Club of West Ottawa will sponsor one student for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) and one student for Adventure in Citizenship (AiC): two nationally respected programs designed to strengthen confidence, character, and civic understanding. All program fees are covered, so there is no cost to schools or families.
These opportunities reflect Rotary’s sustained commitment to investing in Canada’s youth and developing principled, engaged leaders for the future. Two programs. Two distinct national experiences. One shared purpose: preparing young people to lead with integrity and serve with confidence.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards: RYLA
Program Dates: May 22–24, 2026
RCWO Letter of Interest Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026
Led by Rotary District 7040, RYLA is a three-day overnight leadership camp held at RKY Camp in Parham, Ontario. The program allows youth to develop their leadership qualities while having fun and connecting with other young leaders. Through interactive workshops, team challenges, and guided reflection, participants build confidence and practical leadership skills they can apply immediately in school and community life.
Interested students should submit a letter of interest to Bachir Bastien, including:
- Why they wish to participate
- Where they hope to apply the leadership skills they will gain
- A short personal bio describing how they spend their time outside of school
Selected candidates will be interviewed prior to District submission.
Eligibility:
- Student aged 15-17
- Canadian citizen or landed immigrant
- Demonstrated leadership potential
RCWO Contact for RYLA:
Bachir Bastien
Rotary Club of West Ottawa
bachirbastien@gmail.com
Rotary Adventure in Citizenship: AiC
Program Dates: May 24–27, 2026
Application Deadline: March 15, 2026
Adventure in Citizenship, led by the Rotary Club of Ottawa since 1951, brings together motivated students from across Canada to explore Parliament and gain a deeper understanding of how Canada works. Program highlights typically include visits to the House of Commons, meetings with elected officials and leaders, civic discussions, and peer engagement with students from across the country. The Rotary Club of West Ottawa will sponsor one student, covering registration fees and round-trip travel costs.
Eligibility:
- Student aged 16–18
- Canadian citizen or landed immigrant
- Demonstrated leadership potential
For the application form and further information, please contact Marcia Armstrong directly.
RCWO Contact for Adventure in Citizenship:
Marcia Armstrong
Rotary Club of West Ottawa
marciaarmstrongrcwo@gmail.com
Help Us Share These Opportunities
A shared poster, a forwarded email, or a quick conversation could help connect the right student with a life-shaping experience. We invite educators, guidance counsellors, community associations, youth groups, and local businesses to download and display the posters below in schools, libraries, recreation centres, and other youth-serving spaces.
Adventure in Citizenship Poster (Bilingual): Download PDF
RYLA 2026 Poster: Download PDF
