“Well what even is BBYO?” That was my question when my mother first introduced the idea of driving 40 minutes to hang out with some random Jewish teens. Until I attended that very first program, I had never even heard of ‘BBYO’. I thought it was this small club that I would visit to go hang out with other teens I had never met. To be honest, it didn’t sound all that appealing to me. At my first chapter program, me and my older brother showed up and were greeted by 3 other boys and 2 girls. That’s it. That was the whole chapter. However, after the first program, I was hooked. Now, it went from a small club I’d visit once, to a small club I’d visit every week. I was still oblivious to the worldwide community BBYO truly was. 

Then, I attended my first regional program. It was Tournies weekend – Beauheart ball, followed by a chapter sleepover, and an AZAA/BBGG tournament the next day. That was when I found out what ‘AZA’ and ‘BBG’ meant, and I made an unbreakable connection with the Movement. February of 2024 gave me one of the most unforgettable weekends of my life, and for that I’ll forever be grateful. 

This year, on the first weekend of February, I coordinated the same AZAA/BBGG tournament and experienced the weekend through a whole new perspective. As Regional S’ganit, I worked alongside my co and a team of three other leaders to plan an incredible sports competition filled with exciting electives and engaging special guests! From basketball to Krav Maga to human foosball, we truly had it all. Standing on the stage and finally getting to share the results of our hard work with the region was a surreal experience. While the day was not without its stressors, I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to coordinate an event that so strongly defines my BBYO journey. 

As a shy 8th grader who sat in the corner alone at this same program two years ago, I can’t believe how far I’ve come. The opportunities that BBYO has given me are undoubtedly what have formed my teenage years, and will continue to do so for years to come. It is unexplainable how much of an impact BBYO can have on one’s confidence, leadership skills, and social life. So if you’re still debating whether to run for that board position, steering position, leadership role, or other – just do it. You won’t regret it. Maybe someday we’ll work together!