Students learn about compassion at virtual Rotary event

Keynote Rochelle Whellams, Facilitators and adult Rotary staff end the fourth annual Virtual Jr. RYLA program on Oct. 11, 2023.
Thirty-seven middle school students and adults participated in the fourth Rotary-sponsored Virtual Junior Rotary Youth Leadership Awards program event held on Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023.
Keynoter Rochelle Whellams and six Facilitators educated and energized the middle school students to understand and share about CONNECTIONS, COURAGE, AND COMPASSION.
The students made new friends from across three islands and were inspired to act on these “3 C’s.” They were also introduced to the “3 T’s” — Time, Talent and Treasure” — and the Rotary 4-Way Test.
The students discovered how they can make a difference in the lives of others by applying the principles of Rotary and demonstrating compassion with each other.
Keilana Hirae of Mililani Middle School said, “I learned that connecting with other people helps you find out who you are.”
Zian Wang of Kaimuki Middle School shared, “I learned that everyone has different struggles and problems.”
Zana Bolo of Lanai High and Elementary said, “I learned different ways to be courageous.”
Facilitator Sarah Jenkins commented, “The addition of Compassion to the 3 C’s has already made tremendous impact on these students. For the students to also realize that the things they do daily show compassion was beautiful and powerful. I have so much hope and pride for this next generation of Hawaii’s youth!”
Facilitator Alssie Casayuran added, “Jr. RYLA not only impacts the students, but it also impacts us as facilitators. In the short two-and-a-half hours, these students and facilitators had hard conversations that we wish we had more of in this world. I watched them learn about how to show compassion and express what compassion looks like in their life. Seeing these students transform in a short period of time is rewarding and gives me so much hope for the future generations to come.”
For more information about Rotary Clubs and programs, go to https://rotaryinhawaii.org/.