The plane is about to depart. I press my forehead against the window, looking out at the clouds and the runway. A new world is waiting, a journey is about to begin, and I’m about to embark on a crazy, beautiful experience. Excitement, nervousness, uncertainty, passion, all of these feelings at the same time.

I think about those who held this role before me, about the leaders who built the foundation I now stand on, and about the people who made this opportunity possible. It feels surreal, and yet so real at the same time.

And so, the journey begins.

First Stop: The Inaugural Board Retreat
That first retreat was filled with so much laughter, training, late-night bonding, and memories I know we’ll hold onto for the rest of our lives. But more than any single moment, what stood out was the passion in the room. Passion to lead this Movement into its next century. Passion to build something greater than what we’ve ever seen before. Passion to inspire, to create change, to make a difference that lasts far beyond our time in these roles.

August Executive Conference
I felt that same passion once again at the August Executive Conference. Being with all the Regional Presidents, seeing their spirit, their excitement, and their dedication, ignited something inside me. Those small but powerful moments reaffirmed why I am here, why this role matters, and why I feel such pride in being part of this Movement.

Pride in leading. Pride in serving. Pride in being Jewish. Pride in knowing that together, we are part of something very special.

With the energy of August still buzzing, I packed my two suitcases and officially began covering the road, ready to fill those bags not just with clothes, but with memories, learnings, and most importantly, people.

CVR: My First Community Visit
My first stop was CVR, a vibrant community with strong leadership and over 14 chapters. I was blown away by their chapter board training and the way their Regional Board led them to think bigger and cheer louder.

That weekend, I got to witness something incredible. In just a matter of hours, the region rallied together for a prospecting push, welcoming over 40 new teens into BBYO in three hours, and had 50 members by the next morning.

These aren’t just numbers. They are 50 lives forever changed. 50 teens who now have a space to express their identities, develop leadership skills in ways they never imagined, and find a home in our Movement. Behind every name on that list is a story, and CVR reminded me how powerful those stories can be.

Greater Atlanta Region
From there, the road took me to the Greater Atlanta Region. I got to visit the amazing JCC where BBYO works and the JCC Teen House, the BBYO home for board meetings and other events.

I connected with alumni who reminded me of the lasting impact BBYO has long after high school. I spent time with the Regional Board and saw their determination to keep building a strong and vibrant community. I even got to share a special evening connecting with summer alumni, reliving memories and seeing how summer experiences fuel leadership year-round.

So many highlights, a powerful region and strong leaders passionate to think bigger.

As I continue this journey, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. To the people I’ve met, the families who have opened their homes to me and the teens who have inspired me.

This is only the beginning. The road is long and I cannot wait to keep moving, keep learning, and keep meeting the people who make BBYO what it is.

Follow along as the journey continues on Instagram at @bbgnsiah under #mercismoves.

I can’t wait to share what’s next.

With pride and excitement,
Mercedes Benzaquen