This summer, I had the privilege of visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau for the first time with BBYO Passport Central Europe Discovery. This experience was life-changing and eye-opening, giving me a new perspective on how lucky we are to be here today. From standing on the train tracks where millions of Jews were taken, to seeing the sleeping quarters and gas chambers, and to reciting Kaddish, I felt a mix of shock, grief, pride, and hope. This visit drove home for me the strength and resilience of our people and inspired me to carry these lessons forward, making sure the horrors of the Holocaust are never forgotten.
Becca FirestoneVancouver, British Columbia, Canada
This summer I went on 3 BBYO summer programs. Whether it was in Italy, Slovenia, Greece, or Poyntelle, PA I can honestly say I feel like I’ve found my inner jew.
Sophia LoewScotch Plains, New Jersey, United States
Looking back on a year ago today and how it shaped me into the person I am now. Along with a couple of tips that I wish someone had told me before I went on a summer program.
Becca FirestoneVancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Antisemitism has become more and more present in our everyday lives. This is my story and my experiences with antisemitism and how it has shaped our Jewish community to be stronger than ever. It is important to remember that we are Jewish, and that is something to be proud of.
Sophia LoewScotch Plains, New Jersey, United States
This article talks about how people misunderstand what it means to be Jewish and that being Jewish is more about culture and community than speaking Hebrew or looking a certain way.
Julia FeldmanCherry Hill, New Jersey, United States
When asked about what I love about BBYO, I always say that it has taught me new ways to navigate and view the world. BBYO is so much more than a resume builder. Rather, it’s a unique opportunity to grow and learn!
Parashat Acharei Mot-Kedoshim reminds us that even in the aftermath of loss, we are called to pursue justice, compassion, and holiness in our everyday lives.
What do Google, denim jeans, When Harry Met Sally, “Vienna” by Billy Joel, and the Pulitzer Prize all have in common? They are the result of Jewish work ethic and reflect our distinct legacy as immigrants.
As someone who’s Judaism is paternal, I’m no stranger to the term “half Jew”; however, my soul would insist that my “Judaism percentage” is much higher than 50%.
This March, I had the opportunity to travel cross country to New York City. During this visit, I was able to connect with my Judaism on a deeper level.
This one’s for every BBG who’s ever cried at separates, screamed a spirit cheer, or found a forever friend over a bowl of Spooey. It’s a true love letter to the sisterhood that shaped us.
Serving as chapter N’siah as a freshman transformed my BBYO experience, allowing me to grow as a leader, strengthen relationships, and give back to the community that shaped who I am.
With election season in full bloom, it’s easy to let unexpected results get to you, but it’s important to remember that an election doesn’t define you, and what is truly meant for you will ALWAYS find you.
Shevat is a month of reflection, renewal, and connection to nature, highlighted by Tu B’Shevat, the “New Year for Trees,” which celebrates growth, abundance, and the deep ties between Jewish tradition and the land.
Parshat Bo details the three final plagues that resulted in the Jewish peoples’ exodus from Egypt, reminding us that by choosing empathy, gratitude, and understanding, we can create a kinder world, while stubbornness and greed only lead to hardship and loss.
Parshat Shemot explores the symbolism of the burning bush, highlighting themes of resilience, faith, and purpose. It reflects on Moshe’s unwavering leadership and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people, reminding us that even in the face of challenges, we can rise above adversity with the strength and guidance of faith.
Parshat Sukkot teaches us to rejoice in temporary dwellings, remembering how G-d sheltered the Israelites in the desert and reminding us to find faith and gratitude in life’s impermanence.
Parshat Bereishit reminds us that just as the world began with creation, each of us carries a divine spark waiting to be uncovered, inviting us to remove our masks and embrace who we were truly created to be.
Realizing that by not being afraid to show my real personality, I can make a lot of new connections and really make an impact on a large group of people
Parshat Noach teaches the importance of resilience, unity, and faith, reminding us through Noah’s righteousness, the dove’s hope, and the rainbow’s promise that the Jewish people must stand strong and united against adversity, valuing both our shared identity and our unique differences.
Parshat Lech Lecha teaches about G-d’s covenant with Abraham, promising descendants as numerous as the stars, and reminds us that both the Jewish people and individuals can find strength and resilience through faith and perseverance in times of struggle.
How visiting Holocaust sites helped me see how the hatred behind October 7th was not new. Jews were attacked simply for who we are. It showed that “Never Again” is something we must continue to fight for. And as Jewish teens, we do that by living proudly. We are still here.
Becca FirestoneVancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Going into being chapter Morah, I have learned a lot about my identity within BBYO, as well as who I am outside of it, and the values I bring from my position into my day-to-day life and friendships.
The daily weight of being a teenager in today’s society: expectations, pressure, responsibilities, and the invisible load we often pretend not to feel… until it becomes too much.
My experiences at Beber Camp, where Israeli dancing and Havdalah shaped my love for Jewish tradition, continue to inspire my connection to BBYO and let me relive the same sense of community, music, and spirituality I first found there.
Navigating Hanukkah in Romania means lighting the menorah, hunting for candles in a Christmas-obsessed country, and surviving eight nights of sufganiyot, cozonac, and cultural chaos.
In a role I never thought I could fill, always feeling like someone else could do it better, I’ve come to realize I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.
When I first moved to Eastern Tennessee, I struggled being one of the only Jewish people at my school; this is how I overcame that struggle and learned more about myself in the process.
BBYO is a life-changing journey filled with leadership opportunities, lifelong friendships, and the chance to embrace your Jewish identity—here are five key lessons I wish I had known before joining and committing to a chapter!
Alexis RovnerCherry Hill, New Jersey, United States
Logan Reich describes his experiences grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene as his small Jewish Community reflects on the last year and October 7th.
From a 16 year old Madricha in training and a teen glued to her phone to being on the brink of finishing High School and feeling the impact of the war.
With the rise of antisemitism in colleges across the country, understanding and confronting this issue has never been more critical for Jewish students to learn about, arguably being one of the most important challenges we have to consider when applying to college.
The importance of letting go of toxic friendships and occurrences in your life to allow yourself to find the friendships that make you the happiest you can be.
Every year we celebrate Pescah by imagining our lives within the story and the story within our lives. This year however it seems that we are in the middle of another chapter of Jewish captivity both physically and intangibley.
At the Centennial IC bringing together over 3500 teens from across the globe, the importance of unity, solidarity, and connection with Israel and the Jewish community worldwide shines brighter than ever. Against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Israel, this gathering takes on added significance, serving as a message of hope in these challenging times.
Moving from one of the biggest countries in Latin America to the smallest can be hard, but moving from a country with one of the biggest Jewish communities to one with 120 Jewish people is harder.
During this holiday, Hanukkah is supposed to give you a feeling of pride and tradition, as well as connection to the Jewish community, however, I feel less connected than ever.
Attending New Member Weekend changed my life as a BBYO member, and I cannot wait to change the lives of current new members at this year's New Member Weekend.
Emily SchenkelCharlotte, North Carolina, United States
Participating in Washington DC’s March for Israel provided me with new perspectives, an optimistic outlook, and certainty of a secure community; it was an event that will remain important to me for the rest of my life.
Shayna HorwitzMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States
In a land marked by history, it is hard enough to live as a Jew. Being a Jew in Germany has affected and shaped me in the past and is currently shaping me.
Through a powerful sharing of her first experience with Anti Semitism, Kylee emphasizes the need to educate and promote tolerance among younger generations to combat hatred.
Kylee GarfieldRedondo Beach, California, United States
From a chance encounter to a transformative journey, discover how BBYO ignited a spark of passion, belonging, and global connection in one young leader's life.
Kylee GarfieldRedondo Beach, California, United States
The Women of the Wall, fearless advocates for religious equality who bravely battle against tradition and adversity to exercise their right to pray and read from the Torah at the Western Wall.
Here is my experience of planning out the future and letting it easily go too far, and having to learn that there’s no way to predict exactly what will happen.
Chapter Traditions create siblinghood and connection between members, here are some other traditions from chapters all over the order and tips on how to create meaningful traditions for your chapter.
Passing on why I wish I had taken advantage of membership in my early BBYO years and the opportunities BBYO has led me to encourage you to become a member NOW.
Imagine standing at the holiest wall in the holiest city of the holy country. It’s the holiest day of the week. You are surrounded by Jews of all backgrounds and with all different familial traditions as you begin your weekly Shabbat service.
Parshat Shoftim introduces the importance of not being wasteful. We all can attempt to live out this concept by reflecting on how all of our actions impact the environment.
My first year as a BBG has been beyond busy, yet ever so fulfilling. This article entails all the triumphs I have accomplished, a reflection on how I intend to better myself, and one specific person who made it all possible.
AZA and BBG joined together again for our oldest and most important tradition at IC this year, but the meaning of BBYO elections extends much further than just that.
Jason CalderonSpringfield, New Jersey, United States
#BBYOGoesGlobal is no longer a hashtag, it's a fact. And this article demonstrates everything that a strong community can do. History has its eyes on Globalization!
When G-d chose to invest in the Jewish people, he expected us to hone in on our given talents to both live a fulfilling life and show our appreciation for these gifts.
They say we all have seven people in the world who are exactly the same as us. How would you feel if you were already born with one of them? Well, that’s something I can tell you...
This week’s Parsha discusses the exodus from Egypt and the start of new beginnings. Just as the Jews were given the gift of a clean slate, we receive our yearly rebirth with the start of a new year, with new goals and opportunities awaiting our arrival.
This week Dvar Torah is all about balancing life. Throughout this story, we follow Joesph's experience as does his best to integrate his new life into his old life, the one he thought he had left behind.
In this week's Torah Portion, Parshat Miketz, we learn about how valuable and telling one's dreams can be. This week we follow both Joseph and Jacob through their journey as they attempt to interpret their dreams.
This week's Dvar Torah, tells the story of how Jacob overcame a fight with an angel. Through this parshat, we learn how important it is to stay true to our beliefs in order to persevere through times of hardship.
Through practicing some of AZA’s most sacred traditions such as separates, business meetings, and bonding, the Greater Atlanta Region has been working to strengthen our siblinghood.
In this weeks Parshat, we follow the journey of Avram, as he living by G-d's instructions. This reading teaches us about the importance of trusting G-d as we make our way throughout our own lives.
This week's Dvar Torah exhibits how Moses led the people to the land of Israel and the importance of being aware of the struggles it took to get there.
Within the Jewish religion, music is something that allows us to further connect to our ancestors. Discover the importance of the first written Torah and how it still plays a role in Judaism today.
In the past, I had a hard time figuring out how I could take action to support the causes and organizations I believe in; but all of my options became so clear once I learned about BBYO’s “Five Paths of Civic Action (SPACE)” resource!
Parshat Kedoshim describes Lashon Hara, the sin of gossip and talking poorly about one another. This is something that everyone has been guilty of one point in time, and it is up to us to consider how our words and actions affect others.
This week's parshiyot, Tazria and Metzora concern the biblical disease of Tzara'at. This disease serves as a consequence of committing sins and going through a purification process to rejoin their communities once having understood the effect of their negative actions.
For this parsha we are reflecting on the story of Passover, sacrifice, and freedom. Viewing the story in a lens of social justice makes us look at the world around us, and seeing the struggles of other communities and how we can help.
When I first joined BBYO, it was so confusing, as it is for so many people, so I have compiled my list of things that I wish I’d known when I joined BBYO.
When observing different teens from around our order, we can see that we all have different moments that we identify as our favorite; yet we all remain in the order because of the traditions that are kept.
While it’s easy to maintain a strong connection with Judaism in the comfort of your own community, it’s scary to think about what that relationship might be like once you go off on your own.
Just like Jacob and Esau in this week's Parsha, we look forward to the day we can embrace our brothers and sisters in person as work to keep our relationships vibrant.
BBYO may seem overwhelming to underclassmen, but don't let that stop you from getting involved in leadership opportunities all that BBYO has to offer for Jewish teens!
After spending weeks helping to plan this year’s Fall Convention, I was able to see it all come together into a fun, fulfilling and interesting experience for all, including myself!
Over the past few months, California has encountered difficult times, especially in the Jewish community. Our region, PWR, managed to come together to still have an amazing BOTC, Battle of the Chapters Convention.
The “Light of Hope” march in Vienna ensures that we never forget the victims of the Holocaust, but what role does this march play in preserving their memories and looking towards a brighter future?
Parshat Bo teaches us that Jewish identity is not formed only through freedom or miracles, but through the choices we make at home: how we claim our time, tell our story, and choose to belong.
Parshat Beshalach teaches us that the journey itself is what prepares us for the destination. That the experiences, challenges, and steps along the way are what truly shape who we become.
From never thinking BBYO summer was for me to sitting in row 48, seat D, flying toward lifelong friends, a Jewish home, and a version of myself I never knew I’d become.
A late-night realization on the porch of Perlman's Dorm 9 turns borrowed clothes, camp chaos, and shared trust into a lesson about letting go of perfection and choosing connection.
Jenna BarrLongmeadow, Massachusetts, United States
A place where I understood that memory is the strongest form of resistance, and that remembering is also a way of still being here. Un lugar en el que entendí que la memoria es la mejor forma de resistencia.
I grew up listening to testimonies, which seemed normal. However, I realized that this privilege wouldn’t last forever. What happens when there are no survivors left to tell their story? Crecí escuchando testimonios, parecía algo normal. Hasta que entendí que ese privilegio no es para siempre, ¿Qué pasa cuando ya no quedan sobrevivientes que cuenten su historia?
“Well-behaved women rarely make history,” but young girls are still taught to be likable before they are taught to be leaders. As leaders of the Jewish people, it’s crucial that we learn what it means to take up space anyway—and how our generation of women is reshaping the future.
When losing an election it can feel like the world is splitting right down the middle; but in reality, it’s the world spinning in the perfect direction for you.
To BBGs across our Order, I urge you to read this if you’re currently struggling to see the "redirection" in your rejection during election season, and need a reminder that your place in this sisterhood is defined by the hands you hold, not just the titles you may carry.
This poem is dedicated to Andrew Sober, an Aleph from Baltimore Council, and for every Aleph whose memory continues to live on through our Brotherhood.
