As we reach the midpoint of our term as International S’ganim, we are reflecting not only on what we have accomplished, but on the cultural and structural impact of our work across the Movement. This role is sometimes viewed as administrative or behind-the-scenes; yet, at its core, our responsibility is to strengthen the systems, relationships, and communication that allow BBYO to function as a truly teen-led democracy. Over the past months, we have focused on making leadership more accessible, support more consistent, and collaboration more meaningful across regions and chapters worldwide. This midterm reflection is both a celebration of what we have built together and a clear articulation of the priorities that will guide us through the second half of our term/serving as your International S’ganim this term has been both a responsibility and a privilege; we are proud to share what we have accomplished together with BBYO. 

On June 1st, we named investing in the future of BBYO leadership as one of our top priorities for the year—and the results have far exceeded our hopes. We saw record-breaking application numbers, with over 1,000 applications for both the International Leadership Network (ILN) and the International Convention (IC) Steering Team. These applicants represented countries, grades, and backgrounds from across our global Movement, powerfully reflecting a culture of engagement, excitement, and shared ownership in BBYO’s future.

Beyond the numbers, what has been most meaningful has been watching these leadership pipelines come to life. We’ve seen teens step into roles with confidence, creativity, and a deep commitment to serving their peers. From the formation and initial brainstorming of teams to the work already underway, it has been inspiring to witness how quickly these leaders have begun shaping programming, building community, and strengthening BBYO on an international scale. Seeing so many teens step up and say “I want to help lead this Movement” reminds us why this work matters, and affirms our belief that BBYO’s future is in strong, passionate, and capable hands.

This year has been marked by powerful, meaningful, and unforgettable conventions across our Movement. From regional gatherings to international Shabbatons, BBYO teens have shown up fully—building community, strengthening Jewish identity, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. We are proud to celebrate conventions held in Asia Pacific, BAR, CRW, CVR, Delta, Eastern, ELTI, Evergreen, GAR, GCR, GJR, GMR, KIO, KMR, Liberty, LSR, MAR, Miami, MHR, Mountain, NER, NFR, NRE, NSR, NTO, ONR, PWR, RMR, SJR,  Switzerland, UK, Wisco, and the Nordics. Each of these regions demonstrated creativity, resilience, and a deep commitment to teen-led experiences—and together, they showcased the true global strength of BBYO. Shoutout to all of the Regional S’ganim, Convention Coordinators, Admins, Steerers, and everyone who helped bring these conventions to life!!

The excitement for IC 2026 in Philadelphia has been nothing short of electric. Registration selling out in minutes was more than a moment of hype—it was a powerful reminder of how deeply International Convention resonates with our Movement and how strongly teens believe in the experiences BBYO creates. As S’ganim, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside and supporting an incredible IC Steering Team: a group of passionate, thoughtful, and driven teen leaders who are dedicating countless hours to ensuring that IC 2026 reflects the very best of BBYO. From intentional programming to inclusive decision-making and meaningful engagement, this team is building an experience that will leave a lasting impact long after the closing program. We are confident that IC 2026 will not only be unforgettable, but a defining moment for this generation of BBYO—one that strengthens our global community, deepens leadership, and inspires what comes next. We can not wait to see you all in Philadelphia in less than one month!!

As we move into the second half of our term, we are proud to uplift Founders’ Fest as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and celebration of BBYO’s legacy. We have been working with our incredible Founders’ Fest Coordinators to bring Founders’ Fest to every region in unique and impactful ways. One of our big ideas for Founders’ Fest this year is to ensure that alumni are getting engaged in our programming in some way. Celebrating our history and building up what the future will be. Across every region, we are working to build intentional and value-driven programming, guaranteeing that every region holds meaningful experiences that center on connection, leadership, and Jewish pride.

Post-IC, the core focus of our work will be collaboration. We’ve had the opportunity to work closely with our coordinators, support regional counterparts, and build genuine bonds with chapter counterparts across the Movement. These relationships have allowed us to uplift chapter programming, share best practices, and work toward chapter excellence everywhere, across the entire organization. We intend on continuing these ideas, working closely with regional counterparts to establish strong relationships with every chapter across the order. We hope to see diverse and exciting programming grow in new ways. 

At the midpoint of this term, we are proud of all we have accomplished—but nowhere close to finished. We remain committed to our promises: Continuing to elevate chapter and regional programming, supporting teen leaders at every level, strengthening bonds across communities, and ensuring every teen feels seen, supported, and empowered in BBYO. 

Thank you for trusting us with this responsibility. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve, and even more excited for what we will continue to build together as a movement in the second half of this term.

Your International S’ganim, Asher and Kayla 💙