“Wait, how old are you?”

This is a question  I have heard constantly throughout my time in BBYO. Whether at chapter events, regional programming, or international conventions, there’s often a moment of surprise when people realize my age. At first, I didn’t always know how to respond. I would laugh it off or try to move past the question quickly. But over time, I realized that question wasn’t just about my age. It was about expectations and what it means to step into spaces where people don’t always expect you to be.

From early on, I decided I wasn’t going to wait. I chose to get involved in BBYO as soon as I could. I didn’t want to hold back or assume that leadership was something reserved for a later age. I took every opportunity I could, whether by running for chapter board at the first opportunity or by joining the International Leadership Network through its committees, cohorts, and IC steering.

More recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Rise Up Cohort Convention. During one of our first group moments, we went around sharing our names and grades. As I listened, I realized I was one of only two freshmen there. I was surprised and hadn’t expected that to be the case. As the days went on, I kept hearing the same question: “Wait, you’re a junior, right?”

At first, I hesitated. I wasn’t sure how to answer. Part of me felt like saying I was a freshman would bring unnecessary attention or make people question whether I belonged. For a little while, I avoided answering directly, hoping I could just blend in.

But then, something changed. I realized that if I had earned my place in that room, I shouldn’t feel the need to hide anything about myself. Instead of feeling unsure, I started to feel proud. Proud that I had taken initiative early, proud that I had stepped into opportunities that pushed me, and proud that I hadn’t waited to be “old enough.”

Just last month, I was fortunate to be elected to Gold Coast Region’s 23rd Regional Board as Regional Aleph Shaliach. It was a moment I couldn’t have been prouder of and one that reinforced the same lesson I had been learning all along. Leadership isn’t about how old you are. It’s about how willing you are to show up.

Now, when people ask me, “Are you really this young?” My answer is simple: yes, and I’m proud of it.

Because leadership doesn’t have a timeline. No rule says you have to wait your turn to make an impact. What matters is taking initiative, embracing opportunities, and having the confidence to stand in spaces you’ve earned.

And if my experience in BBYO has taught me anything, it’s that being “too young” was never a limitation. It was my starting point.