RYLA is a five-day seminar that has been held for nearly 30 years, organized under the sponsorship of the universities in Lombardy and dedicated to young graduates and undergraduates. RYLA helps the youth, through analyzing current issues, to become protagonists’ in society by basing their action on Rotary’s values: to serve, friendship, diversity, integrity and leadership. Business leaders, professionals, university professors and the public devote their time to the implementation of this course, transferring their own experiences, knowledge, and reflections to the youth so they will understand the working world and in this area, the role of a person, his or hers values and dignity. The theme chosen for 2016 was brought forward by the president of the international K.R Ravindran, “Be a Gift to the World – Siate Dono nel Mondo”, to inspire young people to donate time, talents and skills to improve the lives of people in their communities around the world. The days spent at San Patrignano began with the thought of, “The person and the love at the center” with the presentation of the values and the education of the youth in the community, enriched by testimonies from the residents in Sanpa. Antonio Boschini (head of therapeutic sector) and Roberto Bezzi (Coordinator of the AD San Patrignano Soc. Agricola Coop. Social).
The visit was held at various sectors of education(graphic/audiovisual, weaving, decorations, carpentry, study center) inspired by the theme “work is an instrument of rebirth.” After sharing lunch with all the residents of the community, the RYLA participants had the pleasure in meeting Silvia Mengoli (WeFree prevention project coordinator), Marcello Chianese (HR Manager), Monica Barzanti (Director of international relations) on, “ prevention, training and employment, integration and multiculturalism.” The concluding session of the two days was entrusted to Letizia Moratti, co-founder of the San Patrignano Foundation. Stepping in and commenting on the positive economy was Antonio Tinelli, President of the Social Committee of San Patrignano.