On April 14, 2024, I was elected as Baltimore Council’s 76th S’ganit, and with that responsibility came coordinating NRE’s Regional Convention with my Co, and the DC and NOVA S’ganim. I knew that coordinating this convention would be a challenge, but I had no idea how deeply it would impact me and my life. Beginning in June, I was immersed in endless planning calls, countless late-night Facetimes with my Co S’ganim, and meticulous details that would bring the weekend to life. But as the date drew closer, and the planning process picked up, it became that this wouldn’t be just another convention–it would be something truly special. 

On one of our first RC planning calls together the coordinators came up with the theme “For Now, and Forever”. We then made a promise to build a convention that would transform every member who attended’s life. From the moment teens began to arrive at the hotel, it was clear the convention theme couldn’t be more fitting. With adrenaline rushing through my veins as I welcomed members from all around Northern Region East, the energy was electric. Every engaging program, every shared experience, and every new friendship formed that weekend was a reminder of why BBYO is so powerful. I saw the excitement during the opening ceremonies, the passion during the talent show, and the Jewish pride during every Shabbat service. 

One of the most powerful experiences of my weekend was Havdalah. Standing in the middle of a circle of 532 teens, arms around each other, I had never felt so alive. The power of our movement felt so strong in one room. I knew at that moment the future was bright not just for myself, but for all of BBYO. The flickering of the braided candlelight, the sound of our voices singing the blessings as one, and the unity and energy in that ballroom made time stand still. Looking around at my friends, I knew at that moment that BBYO was my forever home. I thought about the impact I had on all these teens, feeling a wave of pride and gratitude. As my eyes started to water I looked up at the ceiling feeling a sense of “I made it”. Running into my co’s arms, overwhelmed with emotion, knowing that this was the moment we had worked so hard for. Havdalah was a reminder that although it felt like convention was coming to an end, the memories and bonds formed would last for now, and forever. 

NRE’s Got Talent, a forever RC tradition, was another highlight. Showcasing the passion, creativity, and commitment of our members to show their chapter spirit. Watching as the crowd cheered for their friends, I realized that this community thrives on lifting one another and giving teens a place to truly shine. 

They always say the people make the place and this convention was a perfect reflection of that. This convention wouldn't have been the same without the incredible people who worked by my side to make it happen. The NRE S’ganim became more than just planning partners, they became a family. We supported each other through every last-minute change, every moment of stress, and every night that ended at 3 am cleaning the hotel and pure exhaustion. From teaching each other AZA and BBG cheers, to having to hold the infamous “conch” above our heads in any public speaking setting, we bonded in ways I never would’ve expected. Each member of the team brought something special to the table, and by the end of the weekend, I knew I had made some lifelong friends.

Bonding with international staff was another unexpected highlight. Getting to work alongside experienced BBYO mentors from across the order opened my eyes to the bigger picture of our movement. Their guidance, encouragement, and shared knowledge made me feel like I was part of something greater. Whether it was learning from their leadership style, hearing their stories, or sharing laughs in the supply room, their presence elevated my experience. Their support solidified my confidence as a leader, and I left the convention feeling even more inspired to contribute to our powerful movement. 

And then there were the teens themselves, the ones who reminded me every second why this was all worth it. Whether it was an eighth-grader finding their place, a senior sucking in every moment of their last convention, or every member walking through the weekend with a smile on their face, every person added to the magic of the weekend. Seeing their happiness, connection, and growth made every challenge worth it.

Our convention wasn’t just about what happened inside the hotel. We found times for connection and inspiration outside the usual programming. Sightseeing and visiting Artechouse offered a glimpse into creativity and beauty beyond our BBYO world, a reminder that the experiences we create are part of something bigger. This idea was reflected as every teen explored the DC area, whether it be the Spy Museum or a DC Donut Tour, teens continued to find their place in BBYO.  

Coordinating this convention was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it was also the most rewarding. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it also showed me how much strength I had hiding inside me. It reminded me of the power of community, of the magic that happens when passionate people come together to create something meaningful. 

More than anything, this experience solidified my passion for leadership and inspiring others. Seeing the impact I made on younger members of our region throughout the weekend made me realize the impact I could have. I left convention feeling inspired, motivated, and encouraged to do the same for others in my region. Ensuring that they too can experience the same transformative moments I did. 

As the weekend came to a close, along with all the hard work I had put in for nine months, we said our tearful goodbyes, and I knew this wasn’t just an experience for now–it was something that would stay with me forever.