The Rotary Club Sofia-Balkan nominated and supported a young leader to participate in the RYLA seminar in Varna in May 2023.

During this Rotary year, the Rotary Club Sofia-Balkan decided to nominate and support a young leader for the first time in its history, enabling them to be part of the RYLA seminar in Varna in May 2023. The seminar is specifically designed for youth who are aspiring to develop leadership skills and make a positive impact within the Rotary community, as well as in their careers and personal lives. The seminar offers various training sessions and discussions aimed at preparing participants to become active contributors within District 2482.

Erkan Kerim shared his thoughts on the opportunity he was given: “Everyone needs opportunities to grow and discover their potential. From May 19-21, I had the pleasure of attending the RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) seminar, which focuses on developing leadership skills and fostering new connections. This incredibly enriching experience opened doors to new perspectives, boosting my self-confidence and ambition in the realms of leadership and business. The energy and motivation of all the participants truly impressed me. I had the chance to meet young leaders and students from different cities, each with diverse interests and professions. This diversity within our group became a valuable asset, as the exchange of different viewpoints and ideas enriched our discussions and enhanced the effectiveness of our collaborative work. Throughout the program, we worked in teams, tackled challenging tasks, and made collective decisions. These experiences taught me the value of teamwork, effective communication, emotional intelligence, and active listening. RYLA not only developed my leadership skills but also provided an opportunity to form lasting friendships. Through engaging training sessions, seminars, and workshops led by experienced speakers and successful business leaders, I gained valuable insights into various aspects of leadership. I came to realize that leadership is not merely about assuming responsibilities but also about inspiring and motivating others to achieve greater results. I truly grasped the importance of effective communication, emotional intelligence, and collaboration. I express my sincere gratitude to the Rotary Club Sofia-Balkan for nominating and providing financial support!”