skip to main content
699e00dd339775c2a83ac318_IC26–Wed–Kandel-49 Large

I flew in with my region’s presidents, and the moment we walked through those convention center doors, it hit that this is what we’ve been building toward. The space was still empty, quiet, waiting to be taken over by 3,500 teens. That contrast made it hit harder.

The day was spent the right way. Meeting people whose names carry weight across the order. Learning the legislation that delegates are about to debate and shape into reality. My committee is exploring solidarity in a world of uncertainty. I look forward to completing the legislation over the course of IC. Walking the floor before it became what it’s about to become. Steering HQ. There’s something about seeing it all before the chaos sets in that makes you appreciate the scale of what IC actually is.

The people alone made Day 1 worth it. Being in the same room as some of the most respected leaders across the entire order isn’t something you take for granted. Every conversation added fuel.

Day 1 sets the tone, and the tone is excitement. IC is here, and it’s going to be something.

Fraternally submitted with undying love for IC ‘26

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.

Explore More Stories

Group of people celebrating on stage
Connection
My Pinky Promise

On July 2, my CLTC coordinator, Mimi, led a Separates that changed not only the way I see BBYO, but the way I see myself.

Profile picture of Firstname Lastname
Sasha Grossman Larchmont, New York, United States
Group of people celebrating on stage
Identity
Change Can Completely Re-Write Your Story

It's never too late to change your life, and BBYO helped me realize that change is important and sometimes it’s what you need in order to feel comfortable in yourself.

Profile picture of Firstname Lastname
Alexa Kniss Austin, Texas, United States
Group of people celebrating on stage
Rewind
A Nostalgic Smell of the Past: Revisiting the Sukkah of My Youth

Sweet smells are derived from the holiday of Sukkot!

Profile picture of Firstname Lastname
BBYO Weekly Parsha AZA & BBG