Girls show leadership qualities

Rotary award for teens

President of the Rotary Club of Blairgowrie, John Gray, presented two east Perthshire teenagers with their Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) certificates last week.

Katrina Nugent and Sophia Kiciuk both attended a summer camp in Abernethy where they experienced a range of activities such as rock climbing, kayaking and team building, encouraging them to develop their leadership skills.

Katrina was put forward for the challenge by Blairgowrie High School while Sophie was nominated by the air cadets and the duo gave a short presentation to Rotarians about their experiences at the group’s most recent meeting, held in the Royal Hotel.

Liz Mason, RYLA co-ordinator for Rotary Club of Blairgowrie, explained: “The awards aim to encourage young people to develop leadership qualities and gain a sense of pride in achievement through emphasising the importance of sportsmanship, fitness, character and personal relationships.

“It can be summed up by the ‘seven Cs’ – commitment, communication, character, competition, confidence, courage and cheerfulness.

“Blairgowrie Rotary Club sponsors two candidates each year, male or female, who are selected from names put forward by the high school, the air cadets, the army cadets and the Scouts.

“The two successful candidates are chosen following an interview process and we look for those who would best benefit from the summer camp week.

“It is a privilege to be chosen as it shows that others have recognised qualities within the candidate that can be developed and enhanced through this opportunity.”

Katrina and Sophia Kiciuk thanked the Rotary Club for the opportunity.

Katrina (16) said: “I had a great time and learned a lot.

“Meeting lots of new people was nice and the whole experience was a real boost to my confidence.”

Sophia, also 16, added: “It was one of the best experiences I have ever had! We did so much that week, it was just brilliant.”

Following their presentations to the Rotary Club, Liz commented: “Both girls talked us through their week and recounted details of their experiences, of which mountain biking and gorge walking were highlights for both!

“Katrina has drive and ambition and although quieter spoken achieved good leadership skills in her group.

“She felt this experience had enabled her to develop these skills and that the course allowed her to take part in many outdoor pursuits she would not have otherwise tried.

“Sophia benefitted from the course as well - her enthusiasm is obvious and her confidence has improved.

“The girls were in different groups but both were full of praise for their course leaders and mentors and have made many friendships which they hope will continue.

“It is always a pleasure for the Rotary members to know that they have made a difference to young lives.”