I have been on my chapter board for over two-and-a-half years - and I am currently my chapter’s N’siah. As my term comes to a close, I have been left to reflect on my experience in BBYO leadership positions, and think about how I can continue to be a leader without a title. I’m sure many have experienced a fear of burning out or feeling lost after completing a term as chapter president, myself included. 

So what do we do now? Where do we go? What do we choose to call ourselves? What do we choose to be? Here is a list, in no particular order, of opportunities you can take as a Madricha or Kohen Godol, without necessarily being on your chapter’s board. 

‍1. Mentor a new member

One of the greatest opportunities in BBYO is ‘forwarding’ your passion for the organization to the next generation of Alephs and BBGs. Find a new member - someone that you feel would benefit from having a role model - and do exactly that. By inspiring a young member, you are ensuring that the movement continues to influence Jewish teens around the globe.

‍2. Apply to coordinate or steer a convention

As convention season returns in the Spring, there comes a great opportunity to stay involved in leadership! Coordinating or steering a convention is an amazing opportunity to continue inspiring other teens around your chapter and in your region or country! You have the opportunity to plan programs (like a Shabbat service or Separates) that teens will remember for the rest of their BBYO experiences. You may even create new friendships along the way!

‍3. Apply for international opportunities

I’m not sorry. This promo is shameless. Many International Leadership Network opportunities, like committees and clubs, are open for application or membership on a rolling basis. These experiences can help cultivate new friendships from around the globe and develop your leadership skills on a deeper level. Go on bbyo.org/lead to learn more about these experiences!

‍4. Go on a summer program

Some of my best experiences in BBYO have been at summer programs such as CLTC, ILTC, and Kallah. A common misconception is that these experiences are exclusive to chapter, council/regional/national, or international board members. That’s completely false - you do not need an elected position to go on a summer program, and not being in those positions does not take away from your experience at these programs! Although going into a new environment like a summer program can be scary, take that chance - you may just meet a new best friend (or two)!

‍5. Take a break

Do it. It’s okay. Board, especially in a presidential position, can be a lot of work. And even though it may not feel like it sometimes, you can take a break. Relax. Be a general member who can attend programs to have fun and bond with your fellow Alephs and BBGs. Don’t overwork yourself if you don’t want to and make sure to prioritize your mental health! 

‍Working hard to become a chapter president, and then leaving that position, can be emotional for many. I am no stranger to this fact. But this is not the end of your BBYO leadership journey - board is not everything. The opportunities within BBYO are truly, and undeniably, endless - don’t regret not taking them!