Local teen represents W.H. at Rotary conference

West Hempstead High School students Pierre Leconte and Steven Trezza were among the 150 10th graders from Long Island who attended a weekend-long Rotary leadership program at the end of March.

At the conclusion of the event, Steven was one of the four students selected by his peers to attend the Rotary International Multi-District Conference held in Washington, D.C., where he learned that the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards is Rotary’s leadership training program for young people. The RYLA emphasizes leadership, citizenship and personal growth, and aims to demonstrate Rotary’s respect and concern for youth.

The  RYLA provides an effective training experience for selected youth, encourages leadership of youth by youth and gives recognition to young people who are rendering service to their communities.

“Kids are often told that they are the future; that they will be the leaders of tomorrow,” Steven said. “RYLA’s message is not to wait for tomorrow: kids can be leaders right now. Many teenagers have great ideas and are carrying out projects that benefit their communities. RYLA encourages and supports these young people.”

Steven went on to say he was glad to have had the opportunity to attend the conference and visit the nation’s capital. “I was able to meet many kids from Long Island and foreign exchange students,” he said, “and best of all, I got to represent West Hempstead at the conference.”