Learning about themselves and how to be better leaders, 32 young people are currently participating in the 2019 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA).
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Based at an hour north of Port Macquarie the leadership camp from March 30 to April 6, is about personal development and equipping young people with the skills to become leaders in the community.
David Mayne, chair of RYLA in Rotary District 9650, said the week-long camp has brought together young people from all walks of life.
"It really is about opening their eyes to different perspectives and because the participants come from all walks of life they hear from a range of different people with different life experiences," Mr Mayne said.
"This year we have 16 girls and 16 boys which is great and we have participants who are students, medical professionals, town planners, who work in hospitality and the banking sector."
Mr Mayne said despite the participants feeling a little anxious on day one, they soon shed their nerves to bond as a group.
"I have been involved in RYLA for the last 15 years and it is always the same," he said.
"On the first day they all sit there anxious and not knowing anyone and after two days they are like a big family.
"The friendships and connections they make at RYLA will stay with them for a lifetime."
One of the highlights of the camp is the mid week dinner where participants host Rotarians and those who sponsored them to attend the camp.
"The dinner is a much loved part of RYLA because those who sponsored the participants to come along come and see how much their lives have changed in just a few days.
"It is also a chance for the participants to relax before heading back to camp for the final few days."
