RYLA Aplications 2026

Personal Data

Rotary Club: Grand Island Rotary Clubs

Name: Manasik A Yahya

Gender: Female

School Grade: Sophomore

School – Grand Island Senior High

Primary Phone Number – 308.267.3911

Address: 305 Shady Bend Way Grand Island, NE 68801

Parent/Guardian Information:

Adam Arbab

Phone: 308.218.1307 Email: [email protected]

Relationship – Father

Vision

Please explain what you hope to gain by participating in RYLA.

I hope to gain a clear understanding of the kind of leader I want to become. RYLA is an opportunity for me to step outside my comfort zone, challenge myself, and grow both personally and socially. I want to strengthen my confidence, communication, and ability to connect with people from different backgrounds. More importantly, I want to learn how to lead with purpose not just taking initiative, but inspiring and supporting others. I want to leave RYLA with skills and mindset to create a positive impact in my school and community, and the motivation to continue growing long after the program ends.

Rotary’s motto is “service above self.” What does that mean to you?

To me, “service above self” means choosing to care for others even when it’s not easy or convenient. It’s about putting empathy into action whether that’s helping someone feel seen, contributing to my community, or simply doing what’s right without expecting recognition. I believe true leadership comes from service, because the strongest leaders are those who uplift others rather than focus on themselves. Living by this motto means making a consistent effort to support those around me and understanding that even small acts of kindness can create meaningful change.

Past and Current Experience

Have you ever volunteered before? – Yes

List any past or present volunteer experiences including dates volunteered and position responsibilities.

I have volunteered at a Library for a children’s event. I face painted the kids faces and watched them leave with a smile. My responsibility was to ensure everyone walking in leaves with a smile and book! I have also volunteered for my school club DECA, my responsibility was to print out school spirit shirts during big events such as basketball and football games.

Do you currently have a job? – Yes

List up to three past or current paid job experience including dates employed and responsibilities. Start with your most recent

I am currently working at my first job right now which is Chipotle. I was employed by the general manager Crishonna Smith on March 13, 2026. My responsibilities is to ensure customers are always satisfied with our service and food, to keep the food fresh and healthy. It is high demand but rewarding at the end when getting to interact with people.

Have you received any awards or honors? – Yes

List awards or recognition that you received for academic, school, or community activities beginning in the 7th grade

Became an NCPA scholar, 9 Honor Roll awards, recognized and picked to represent SSAC (Student Superintendent Advisory Committee)

Have you participated in extracurricular activities or organizations? – Yes

Please list, in order of importance to you, any school, religious, social, athletic, hobbies or other activities or organizations which you have participated in since the 7th grade

NCPA, SSAC, DECA, Student Athletic Trainer, Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball