Description

In a collaborative effort led by the Rotary Club of Bangalore Koramangala, Rotary Club of Ramanagara Silk City, and Rotaract Club of Koramangala, an impactful RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) event was organized in the heart of rural Ramanagara. Designed to immerse young leaders in agricultural and environmental learning, the experience was both adventurous and transformative. Event Highlights: 📝 The Journey Begins The day began with a bus ride expected to last just over an hour — instead, it turned into a two-hour-and-fifteen-minute bonding experience. Members from Rotary and Rotaract clubs shared laughter, stories, and camaraderie, setting the perfect tone for a day of learning and adventure. 📝 Immersive Rural Learning The RYLA event focused on three key sectors: dairy farming, sericulture, and mango cultivation. Participants gained firsthand experience in: 1. Milking cows and understanding dairy production cycles 2. Observing the complete lifecycle of silkworms, from egg to cocoon 3. Learning about mango farming and even plucking ripe mangoes straight from the trees Additionally, sessions on government schemes supporting agriculture and rural entrepreneurship provided valuable insights into how youth can engage with existing systems to drive change. Participants also contributed their ideas towards the economic development of the farmers, dairy workers and silk producers. We planned out a better supply chain system to the market to be implemented if possible in the future for the economic upliftment of the rural areas. 📝 Visit to Kanva Reservoir & Environmental Awareness Participants visited the Kanva Reservoir, where they explored its historical and agricultural significance. One of the event’s most impactful moments was an interaction with Shanthamma, a decorated local woman farmer, who shared her journey and offered a session on environmental protection. Participants joined her in cleaning her farm and learned about composting and the hardships of rural farming. 📝 Leadership Development & Club Interaction The RYLA format encouraged interactive learning, problem-solving, and teamwork. Rotaractors learned to lead from the ground up—literally—strengthening their appreciation for rural resilience and agricultural entrepreneurship. Heartfelt gratitude to all participating clubs Rotary Club of Koramangala – 15 participants; Rotaract Club of Krupanidhi – 10 participants; Rotaract Club of APSCE – 6 participants; Rotaract Club of Ramanagara – 15 participants; Rotary Club of Ramanagara Silk City – 4 participants Conclusion This RYLA was a reminder that leadership doesn't always begin in a boardroom—it often starts on a farm. Through rural immersion, practical learning, and powerful stories, participants walked away with strengthened leadership values, greater environmental awareness, and an appreciation for the roots of community resilience.