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My first BBYO convention was the New Member Retreat back in January 2023, and honestly, I had no idea what to expect. But the second I walked in, I felt at home. Everyone was so welcoming, and I immediately made friends with upperclassmen who treated me like I’d been part of the community forever. It hit me that BBYO is full of people just like me, Jewish teens from all over, all coming together to be part of something bigger.

One of my favorite parts has always been AZA separates. Those moments are special, full of laughs, honesty, and real brotherhood. It’s where guys open up, connect, and become closer, and it’s taught me a lot about what being part of BBYO truly means.

 Now, as Regional S’gan, conventions mean even more. They’re not just weekends packed with programs and ruach, they’re my chance to give other teens the same experience that welcomed me in. I get to help make moments that inspire, connect, and excite others, including my younger brother Jonathan, whose first convention I coordinated last year and again this year among the S’ganim of Florida. 

I’m especially pumped for Florida Fall Con 2025. Our team has worked so hard to make it the best one yet, and I can already tell it’s going to be unforgettable. Between the energy, the programs, and the people, it’s shaping up to be my favorite convention so far.

If you’re thinking about going to a convention but aren’t sure,  just sign up. Seriously. You’ll make friends, have a blast, and come away learning more about BBYO and yourself. Every convention has something special to offer, and I promise you won’t regret it.

So don’t wait, sign up for Fall Con, Winter Con, or any convention you can. Each one is a weekend full of fun, connection, and memories that last way longer than the weekend itself. See you there!

All views expressed on content written for The Shofar represent the opinions and thoughts of the individual authors. The author biography represents the author at the time in which they were in BBYO.

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