When I joined BBYO as an 8th grader with none of my friends, I didn’t know what to expect. I feel like everyone says that, but they’re all right. All I knew about BBYO was that my brother’s friends were in charge of this Jewish youth group nearby and that if I joined, they would drive me to meetings. But I quickly realized that BBYO was so much more than just a Jewish youth group, and I was really excited to get involved.

I did this by running for Chapter Gizborit as an 8th grader. I knew that it was rare for a 13-year-old to be running for a chapter board position, but I decided to do it anyway. I ended up winning and after that experience, I knew that BBYO would be my home and my future high school experience.

Fast-forward one year. At this point, I had already served as my chapter’s Gizborit and S’ganit. I knew what the next step was, and I was nervous. But when it was my turn to give my speech for the N'siah election, I was confident. I came home that night as N'Shamah BBG’s newly elected chapter N'siah as a freshman. I was hesitant as to whether I could balance my class at school and the responsibilities that came with my new position. But, being elected N'siah at such a young age was the best thing that could have happened to me.

Spring term 2025 is coming to an end, and as I look back on my term as N'siah, there is nothing I regret. Sure, I wish that my communication with the rest of my board was a little better, but leading an entire chapter of girls every Tuesday night at the JCC is an experience like no other.

Running to be my chapter’s N'siah was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I built so many new connections, strengthened old ones, met so many people, and learned so much more about myself. One term later, this position has transformed my life. It’s given me the chance to give back to the place that shaped who I am. I’ve been able to build such strong relationships with my chapter’s board and members, and I’m so thankful I’ve been able to leave my chapter in a great position while moving on to the next level in my BBYO life.