Rotary workshop hones qualities of differently-abled youth

PANAJI: It was not just fun and games for around 35 differently-abled youth from Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka, but training to develop their personal and leadership qualities at a four-day workshop in the city.

The Rotary Club Panaji Riviera had organized Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) for the differently-abled participants between the age group of 15 and 30.

It was a four-day training programme with a series of exciting activities for the participants. "We have already held RYLA for the visually-impaired for the last four years," said Mahesh Pai, secretary of rotary club, Panaji, adding "this is the first time we are organizing it for the hearing-impaired and speech-impaired."

The youth participated in an all-expense paid programme, which included yoga, adventure sports, games on the beach, star gazing, tour of the central library and a mime theatre.

To encourage the participants, they gave away awards and certificates to the ones who performed the best in each activity. The others too were given certificates of participation.

Siddharth Zantye, president of rotary club, Panaji, said, "The main aim of this event is to bring out the personal and leadership qualities of the participants while being trained to develop communication and vocational skills". Estrela do Mar, Baga, took in these participants and gave them a chance to learn about the hospitality industry with a practical knowledge in 'F&B' and 'Housekeeping'.

"The resort was thrilled with the participation and the work done by them that they have assured jobs for whoever applies," said Zantye.