Brookfield High School junior Yusef Abdel-Rasoul has always thought of himself as a leader. When the opportunity to attend the Youth Rotary Leadership Awards (RYLA) Conference presented itself, there were no doubts he would attend. “I always want to help people when I can, with whatever they need,” Abdel-Rasoul says. “I thought this would be a great opportunity to learn more and meet new people.”
The RYLA is an intensive leadership experience where members work to develop skills as a leader while having fun and making connections. Abdel-Rasoul was selected by the school’s Interact Club teacher advisor to participate in the conference. The two-day event in February brought students from across Ohio to Canfield, where they worked with local Rotary club members on various team-building activities. Abdel-Rasoul says groups completed paper house and paper tower building challenges as a way to enhance their collaboration skills. He says he’s looking forward to implementing some of the practices he learned at the conference at school, at home, and in the community. “I want to show the right way to be a leader,” he says. “For fellow students, that might be leading them in a good direction to set them on a good path in life. Or for my parents, helping them the best way I can; and in my community, it’s about helping with events, activities, and other service opportunities.”
Abdel-Rasoul shared his conference experience with members of the Brookfield Rotary Club during their February meeting and encourages others to give the program a try. “It’s a great program to meet new people and to learn about how to be a leader and team member,” he shares. “Honestly, I had so much fun learning and socializing with new people, it helps you open up and talk more.”
Congratulations Yusef - thank you for representing Brookfield High School, your family, and your community well!