Two inspiring young women from Ashby-de-la-Zouch have publicly shared the profound impact a Rotary-sponsored leadership course had on their personal and professional development. Valentina Matassa and Katie Bodsworth delivered a joint presentation at the Ashby Bistro, detailing their experiences on the intensive Rotary Young Leadership Awards (RYLA) course.
A Life-Changing Week at Grafham Water
Valentina Matassa and Katie Bodsworth attended the week-long RYLA course at Grafham Water in August last year. The course, which ran for six full days, is designed to push participants and develop essential life skills. Both admitted they had no prior idea of what to expect and were astonished by the diverse range of day and night activities packed into the schedule.
Katie Bodsworth works for Canine Partners, a local charity that pairs assistance dogs with people living with physical disabilities. Valentina Matassa is involved with Love4Life, a charity supporting girls aged 11 to 18 who face challenges with wellbeing, relationships, or home life. Despite their different backgrounds, both highlighted a common, transformative outcome from the course.
Confidence and Camaraderie: The Lasting Benefits
The principal benefit for both was a significant increase in self-confidence. Valentina pointedly told the audience, "A few months ago, I could not possibly have stood here talking to this audience. The course gave us all experience of doing that." Katie echoed this sentiment, emphasising that the requirement to deliver presentations was a key part of their growth.
She also highlighted the importance of teamwork as an essential and enjoyable ingredient of the programme. "We have both made many good friends who we intend to meet and share our experiences," Katie added, noting the valuable network they had built.
Local Rotary Support and a Call for Applicants
The two candidates were selected and fully sponsored by four local Rotary Clubs: the Rotary Club of Ashby de la Zouch, Ashby Castle, Coalville, and Market Bosworth. The sponsorship came at no cost to the candidates or their families, covering the entire programme for young people aged 18-26.
President of Ashby Castle Rotary Club, Julie Kydd, congratulated the pair on their excellent presentation. The event was also attended by a special guest, Ashby Town Mayor, Councillor Damilola Ojuri, who is known for his keen interest in local youth activities.
Julie Kydd reminded the community that RYLA is an annual event and encouraged the audience to recommend young people to apply. Applications for the leadership development programme can be made directly to Rotary Clubs by the young people themselves, or by their parents, teachers, or employers.
Both Valentina and Katie concluded by thanking Rotary for providing a unique and invaluable opportunity that has left a lasting positive mark on their lives.
