Oceania’s premier leadership retreat for emerging and established leaders.
Tickets are available until 31st October 2025, unless sold out earlier.
Ready to ELEVATE Yourself?
ELEVATE is our flagship leadership retreat – an immersive four-day experience designed to help emerging and established leaders recharge, reconnect and rise to the next level of their leadership journey.
Bringing together participants from across Australia and New Zealand, ELEVATE blends professional development, community connection and personal growth in an unforgettable setting.
What You’ll Experience
Inspiring Keynotes & Workshops – Learn from dynamic, qualified speakers and facilitators who share practical insights, stories and strategies for modern leadership.
Connection & Collaboration – Build genuine friendships with other changemakers who share your drive to make a difference.
Reflection & Renewal – Step away from the everyday and into a space designed for reflection, creativity and personal clarity.
Practical Tools for Real Impact – Leave with frameworks and habits you can apply immediately in your career, community and personal life.
Who ELEVATE Is For
ELEVATE is open to community-minded leaders aged roughly 20–40 years old from all backgrounds. Whether you’ve attended RYLA before or are discovering RYLA for the first time, if you’re passionate about growth, purpose, and impact – you belong here.
Accessibility and inclusion are central to our design. Please reach out if you have specific needs – we’ll do our best to accommodate them.
The Retreat
Held annually in November/December, ELEVATE combines the energy of a conference with the intimacy of a retreat. Set in the beautiful Blue Mountains, NSW, it’s your opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, leadership and connection.
Expect four transformative days of inspiration, workshops, social experiences and reflection – all curated to help you finish the year with renewed focus and momentum.
Investment In Yourself
Your ELEVATE ticket covers all accommodation, meals, sessions and activities throughout the retreat. We encourage participants to see this as an investment in their leadership journey – one that delivers immense personal and professional value.
Sponsorship or support may be available through your employer, Rotary club or community network. Our team is happy to provide guidance or templates to help you secure it.
Join The Movement
ELEVATE isn’t just a retreat – it’s a launchpad for lifelong connection.
You’ll leave with a network of peers who continue to challenge, support, and celebrate each other long after the event ends.
If you’re ready to grow, connect, and lead with purpose – ELEVATE is for you.
Here’s Why You’ll Love ELEVATE!
Elevate sets you up with concepts, knowledge, awareness and planning strategies that are directly applicable to your everyday life and which facilitate intentionally driving towards what you want most. It’s well worth the investment!
Amber Turner – Senior Analyst, PwC
As an ELEVATE Alumni, I know first hand how powerful and life changing these experiences can be. I am looking forward to the chance to grow and further develop my own leadership skills, as we create this incredible opportunity for RYLA alumni and community leaders to continue their leadership, personal and professional journeys.
Alastair Sharpe – Senior Engineer, ARTC Inland Rail
Being involved in ELEVATE as a Facilitator and Program member has been incredible. I’ve learnt so much professionally from working in a diverse and highly capable team, and had a tonne of fun along the way. Playing a part in bringing RYLA Oceania ELEVATE to life and seeing the impact on participants is hugely rewarding. It’s a privilege to be a part of it.
Genevieve Langron – Senior Manager, NSW Clinical Excellence Commission
Leadership encourages us to overcome fear and embrace every opportunity for growth and development. The ELEVATE program challenged my perception of who I am and what I can contribute to my community by inspiring me to overcome limiting beliefs and behaviours. I jumped at the chance to join the team because I believe in the value of this program and would be honoured to support others on their individual journeys.
Emma Bell – Manager, Ora Advisory
ELEVATE brings together passionate leaders and empowers them to achieve lasting change in their communities and themselves. It’s a privilege to lead such a dynamic team who are passionate about developing leaders across our region and generously share their unique strengths, talents and skills to bring the program to life.
Rebecca Fry – Director, Engagence / Senior Strategist, Northern Beaches Council
🌟 More FAQS for ELEVATE 2025! 🌟
1. What makes ELEVATE unique compared to other leadership programs?
- A Truly Advanced Experience: ELEVATE goes beyond introductory RYLA programs. It’s designed for those ready to deepen their personal growth, expand self-awareness and refine their leadership vision. You’ll gain new tools, insights and powerful connections that will continue to shape your journey long after the retreat.
2. Who is eligible to attend ELEVATE 2025?
- All Purpose-Driven Leaders Welcome: ELEVATE is open to anyone passionate about growth, connection, and positive impact. While it began as a next step for RYLA alumni, the program now welcomes all community-minded leaders aged roughly 20–40 who share the RYLA spirit of service and leadership.
3. What are the dates for ELEVATE 2025, and how much time do I need to set aside?
- 27–30 November 2025 (Thursday–Sunday): We’ve designed this as a long weekend to make it easier for leaders to attend. Please factor in travel time to and from the venue so you can make the most of the full experience.
4. What is the cost, and what does it cover?
- A$950 (all-inclusive): RYLA Oceania is a non-profit organisation committed to making leadership development affordable and accessible. Your registration fee covers accommodation, meals, workshops, materials and access to inspiring facilitators – so you can focus entirely on your growth without extra logistics.
5. Are there any fundraising opportunities to help cover the cost?
- Yes — we’ll support you! Many participants secure funding through workplace sponsorships or Rotary Clubs. We provide fundraising templates and guidance to help you get started and flexible payment plans are also available to make participation achievable for everyone.
6. Where will the event be held?
- A Scenic Blue Mountains Location (NSW): ELEVATE 2025 will be held in a tranquil mountain setting just outside Sydney. You’ll enjoy comfortable, inclusive accommodation surrounded by nature – the perfect environment for reflection, learning and connection.
7. What should I expect to gain from ELEVATE?
- Deep Personal and Professional Growth: You’ll gain practical tools for goal setting, communication and team building – along with a clearer sense of direction and purpose. Expect to walk away more confident, energised and connected to a network of leaders who’ll continue to inspire you.
8. Do I need prior leadership experience to benefit from ELEVATE?
- Not at all. While RYLA experience is helpful, it’s not required. ELEVATE meets every participant where they are on their leadership journey, creating space for both emerging and experienced leaders to learn from one another.
9. How is the program structured?
- Engaging, Interactive and Reflective: The retreat blends hands-on workshops, small group discussions, outdoor activities and guided reflection sessions. With a balance of structured and informal moments, ELEVATE is designed to inspire growth while allowing time for genuine connection.
10. What social activities are planned?
- Social Events for Connection: You’ll have plenty of opportunities to unwind, make friends, and enjoy relaxed evening activities. From group dinners to fireside conversations and our signature TEDx-Style night, every event is designed to foster genuine connection in a fun, inclusive way.
11. Can I attend alone, or should I come with someone?
- Most Participants Come Solo: Many attendees join on their own – and quickly form strong friendships. The program is intentionally designed to be welcoming and inclusive, making it easy to connect and expand your network.
12. Who are the facilitators?
- Inspiring, Experienced Leaders: ELEVATE’s facilitators are skilled, qualified professionals with backgrounds in leadership, coaching, strategy, well-being and community impact. They’re dedicated to helping you thrive through a rich, interactive learning experience.
13. What ongoing support is available after ELEVATE?
- An Active Alumni & Leadership Network: After the retreat, you’ll join a growing community of leaders who continue to collaborate, mentor and share opportunities for growth. ELEVATE is just the beginning of your journey with us.
14. What if I need help with planning or logistics?
- We’re Here to Help: Our team can assist with any logistical questions and will share a detailed pre-event guide with what to bring, how to prepare, and how to make the most of your experience — so you feel confident and ready from day one.
15. How do I register if someone is sponsoring my attendance?
- Please send an email to info@rylaoceania.org with the name of the organisation, so we can organise an invoice for you.
RYLA Oceania 