Dubai Makes History with Its First-Ever RYLA & Interact Academy

Dubai proudly marked a historic milestone with the successful launch of its very first Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) and the first Interact Academy, jointly organized with the Rotaract Club of Jumeirah and supported by Rotary, Rotaract and Interact clubs across the city.

This long-held dream was initiated last Rotary year by Rtn Dr Basel Radwan, VP & Service Chair of the Rotary Club of Jumeirah, and District Country Chair for RYLA & Interact in the UAE, together with Rtn Rose Moraes. With patience, vision, and teamwork, that dream came alive under the leadership of Rtn Dr Basel and Rtr Nadwa Al Khatib, President of Rotaract Club of Jumeirah and RYLA Co-Chair.

Youth Leadership in the Age of AI

Held in Dubai, the event welcomed 28 enthusiastic participants aged 12–18, exceeding its original goal and proving the growing appetite for leadership and service among youth. Centered on the theme “Youth Leadership in the Age of AI,” the program blended inspiration, learning, and connection.

The day opened with empowering remarks from Rtn DG Peter Ashdjian, District Governor of Rotary District 2452, alongside Rtn PP Yaseen Jaffar and Rtn P Alber Alterjman setting a powerful tone for leadership and service.

A truly memorable moment followed: the pinning of the founding members of the newly certified Interact Club of Jumeirah – Dubai, a community-based Interact club proudly sponsored jointly by the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of Jumeirah. This certification marked another “first” for Dubai and a strong investment in future Rotary leaders.

Learning, Connecting, Leading

Energy filled the room as global leadership expert Estefania Badra led dynamic icebreakers and team-building activities, helping participants connect while discovering leadership through collaboration.

The newly launched Interact Academy then took center stage. Rtn Stefan Kipp guided participants through Rotary’s rich history, followed by inspiring sessions from Rtr P Nadwa Al Khatib and Rtn Dr Basel Radwan, who shared the Rotary–Rotaract–Interact legacy, structure, and real projects making an impact across Dubai.

The global reach of Rotary came alive through Rtn Dr Nada Sayarh, who showcased life-changing Rotary Global Grant projects she leads worldwide. Leadership self-discovery followed with Dr Rama Kanj and her engaging workshop on youth leadership styles, helping participants understand where they shine best.

Bringing the theme into the future, academic AI researcher Zina Abdelraouf connected leadership styles with artificial intelligence, empowering youth to responsibly use AI in their leadership journeys. The interaction, curiosity, and excitement from participants were unmistakable.

A Collective Rotary Effort

The event was powered by Rotary spirit at its best. Aashna Takhtani, serving as RYLA Youth Ambassador, inspired peers to join the journey. Alexandra Ivanova offered guidance as RYLA Alumna Advisor, while Rtn PP Tony Ebraheem and Rose Moraes supported as RYLA Advisors.

Behind the scenes, Rtr Anika Ali led the volunteers, Anjelaine Lopes steered media coverage, and Rtr Bahaa Olabi together with Rtr President Mohammed Arar brought energy as MC and SAA. Every unforgettable moment was beautifully captured by Rtn Brigitte Richaud.

Dubai Is Now on the RYLA Map

With the successful completion of its first RYLA, Dubai is officially on the RYLA map. The impact was immediate: dormant Interact clubs began reactivating with their sponsor Rotary clubs, and many young people are now eager to join Interact—both school-based and community-based.

This landmark event did more than train young leaders; it ignited purpose, connection, and hope. It reminded us that when Rotary dreams boldly and works together, the future responds.

Service Above Self, and the future of leadership has begun in Dubai.

Article written by: Rtn Dr Basel Radwan VP & Youth Service Chair, RCJ 2025-2026

Interact & RYLA Country Chair, UAE 2025-2026