On Saturday night, teens at International Convention came together to bring the Shabbat to a close through a moving Havdalah ceremony, and open the new week with a plenary that celebrated the accomplishments of individuals throughout BBYO and of the order as a whole.

A variety of inspiring speakers joined us for the plenary, ranging from advocates for gun safety Cameron Kasky and Fred Guttenberg, to athlete Justin Gallegos, and performers Max Greenfield and Chelsea Handler. These guests reflected on their work and what has motivated their passions, and used their platform to give their appreciation for all that we have done leading up to this moment. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Florida congresswoman, said to the audience of thousands: “You represent the future. BBYO, you have always served as gamechangers.”

The International Board of B’nai B’rith Girls and the Grand Board of the Aleph Zadik Aleph gave incredible speeches and together recognized achievements of individuals and chapters throughout the order. Every recipient worked incredibly hard to receive the recognition they did tonight, and in bringing their gifts to their chapters back at home. It is the work of these people that makes the state of our Movement strong. Congratulations to every award winner, we applaud you for your dedication!