About Jewish 3,500 teens from 50 countries assembled in Denver for BBYO’s International Convention, with 46 of them hailing from Kansas City.
Organizers call the convention the largest annual gathering of Jewish teen leaders worldwide.
Convention delegates were encouraged to celebrate their Jewish identities, explore social issues and engage with speakers and influencers.
Of the 46 teens from Kansas City who attended the convention, 25 were from the Saadia BBG #40 chapter, 11 from Nordaunian AZA #22 chapter and 10 from Greater Kansas City AZA #2 chapter.
“At BBYO’s International Convention, we come together in a celebration of Jewish joy, a step away from the reality of the world around us,” said Amy Ravis Furey, senior regional director of BBYO’s Mid-America Region. “Here, each connection and moment reminds us of the vibrant future ahead for the Jewish people. Here, the next generation of Jewish leaders gather, filling me with hope and endless possibilities.”
During the five-day retreat, delegates participated in AZA/BBG sports tournaments; attended music performances by Swae Lee, Galantis and DJ SASI; and explored entertainment, cultural and historical sites around Denver. In all, delegates represented 480 North American and global chapters; 73 regions/communities; 50 North American states, districts and provinces; and 48 countries.
“It was truly incredible to see so many Jewish teens from Kansas City branch out and meet with Jews from across the world,” said senior Noah Bergh, Kansas City Council Godol.
This year’s convention theme was “Limitless Horizons.” Among the lineup of influencers and activists were Asher Angel, actor and musician; Lani Anpo, Native American and Jewish advocate and anti-propagandist; Giancarlo Esposito, award-winning actor, director and producer; Eden Golan, Israeli singer and 2024 Eurovision contestant; Jake Goldberg, actor and content creator; Samantha Harris, TV host, author and certified health coach; Natan Levy, professional MMA fighter; Avi Mayer, former editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post; Jake Retzlaff, quarterback of the BYU Cougars; Tara Davis-Woodhall and Hunter Woodhall, Olympic and Paralympic gold medalists; and Ellie Zeiler, influencer and activist.
It was a memorable convention for Kansas City Council N’siah Sami Sandler, who was attending her second International Convention. Sandler participated in executive business meetings, captained the Oneg Shabbat steering committee and ran for International Board.
“I spent the months leading up to IC planning and leading a team of 50 teens, and on Friday night, we showed up and put on 30+ wonderful programs,” Sandler said.
Sandler’s favorite parts of the convention included reuniting with friends she made during BBYO summer programs and “the amazing moments I got to spend with Kansas City and Mid-America Region as a whole.”
It was the first International Convention for Will Widman, a sophomore from Greater Kansas City AZA #2.
“It was so cool to be able to meet people from all across the country and the world,” Widman said. “Being able to openly express myself around thousands of other Jewish teens was truly an amazing experience.”
Founded in 1924 by Sam Beber and Kansas City chemist Nathan Mnookin, BBYO has opened chapters in 63 countries over the last 20 years and is now engaging 70,000 teens internationally. Outside of the U.S., nearly 50 chapters have been added since COVID-19, including in the United Arab Emirates, El Salvador, Puerto Rico, South Africa and Japan.
“It is incredible to see the transformation of this organization – which started right here in the heart of the Midwest over 100 years ago,” said David Wexler, adviser of Greater Kansas City AZA #2, who attended his first International Convention. “This incredible growth is a testament to the power of leadership, community and the shared commitment to building a future where young leaders can thrive, connect and inspire change across the globe.”
Wexler noted that when Kansas City hosted the BBYO National Convention in July of 1925, there were only 150 delegates representing 13 chapters.
“We take immense pride in the elevated role our teen leaders play in bringing IC to life, reflecting our core belief in their power and potential,” BBYO CEO Matt Grossman said. “More than ever, Jewish teens need to find strength in unity while building relationships they will take to the next stages of their lives.”
Kansas City Council received the following International Awards at the event:
Greater Kansas City AZA #2: BBYO Stand Up Gemilut Chasidim Award
Greater Kansas City AZA #2: BBYO IC Film Festival – People’s Choice Award (Runner-Up)
Judah Bassin, Greater Kansas City AZA #2: Rising Leader Award
Eli Nathan, Greater Kansas City AZA #2: Tree of Life Recruitment Award
David Wexler, Advisor of Greater Kansas City AZA #2: David Bittker Unsung Hero/Advisor of the Year nominee
Jonah Stein, Nordaunian AZA #22: Arevut Explore Israel Award
Saadia BBG #40: Miriam Albert Chapter Excellence Award
Sami Sandler, Saadia BBG #40: Gold Star of Deborah Award
Sami Sandler, Saadia BBG #40: Silver Star of Deborah Award
Sami Sandler, Saadia BBG #40: Eternal Light of Recruitment Award
