Anita Perlman once said, “The more of yourself that you give to BBG, the more you will receive.” For the past two years, I’ve heard that idea echoed by mentors and leaders around me, but at first, I didn’t fully understand it. I thought it meant saying yes to every leadership opportunity—but over time, I realized it was something deeper.

I later realized that giving to BBYO isn’t about doing everything; it’s about being present in what you do and valuing each moment while you’re in it. Because before you know it, those moments become memories. Whether it was diving into MRIHA at ILTC, exploring my Jewish identity at Kallah, or sharing meaningful conversations while traveling through Central Europe, I found myself gaining more than I ever expected.

When I reflect on my two years in BBYO, I realize it was never about the region I was in or the positions I held. It was about the experiences I had and the connections I built—especially through BBYO summer programs.

If my sleepaway camp trip to Israel hadn’t been canceled in light of October 7th, I may have never found BBYO. What felt like a loss at the time unexpectedly became a meaningful turning point in my life.

When I first heard about ILTC at my cousin’s Bat Mitzvah in January 2024, I was immediately drawn in. A leadership program in a camp setting felt like the perfect combination. I went in not knowing what to expect, but ready to put myself out there and meet new people—something I had been searching for at home.

ILTC became so much more than I ever imagined. Beyond leadership skills and an understanding of BBYO, it was where I found my people—friends who quickly became some of my closest friends. Those late-night conversations that continued long after the summer ended meant everything. A special shoutout to the POOKIES: Maya, Lucy, Hannah, Sam, Rachael, and Brandon. 

Also, while at ILTC, I found people who felt like they had always been part of my life. Yonas said we’ve “grown up together,” and I couldn’t agree more. I’ll always cherish our day in Cooperstown, our Fourth of July selfies, and the “we grew up together” group chat. 

Sam: From the first day at Perlman and my dorm 5'er for life. You are one of the most genuine people I know, and your advice has meant so much to me. I’ll always cherish our Perlman summer—from dancing in the rain to screaming at the top of our lungs on Shabbat. I’m so grateful for you.

Rachael: You’ve been there through everything, and I can’t imagine my life without you. I’m so lucky for our friendship and every moment we’ve shared. 

That sense of connection carried into International Kallah, where I truly began to understand my Jewish identity. At Kallah, I was immersed in what it means to be Jewish today, learning from inspiring speakers and perspectives while also falling in love with the city of Philadelphia. The impact Kallah had on me was profound—it helped shape me into the proud Jew I am today and strengthened my connection to my identity. I’m incredibly grateful I got to experience the full Perlman summer. 

Although I missed my close friends who had left after ILTC, I quickly formed new ones. I’m especially grateful to Julia and Jessie—I feel so lucky we met and got to share that experience together.

I also found someone I’ve flown across the country to see more than once.

Sadie: I feel so lucky we found each other when we did. From long calls to our time in Philly, I’ll always be grateful for you. You’re like a sister to me.

Sarah Yonas and Bekkah Lerman: Thank you for supporting me unconditionally these past two years. Yonas, you bring a presence that makes everything better. Bekkah, you light up every room. I’m so grateful to have you both in my corner.

After Perlman, I fully immersed myself in BBYO. I joined the ILN and Press Corps and wrote for The Shofar, which gave me not only meaningful connections but also a platform to share my story. I’m especially grateful to Andrea for creating that space and supporting my voice.

Then came my first International Convention in Denver. It was everything I had hoped for—reuniting with close friends, forming new connections, and experiencing the energy of a global community. That week was both exciting and meaningful, and I’m grateful for every connection that came from it. And for IC Press Corps, where I worked with an incredible team to create a podcast about summer friendships.

By July 2025, I was ready for my next chapter: BBYO Passport. As I boarded my flight to Berlin, I had no idea how much that experience would shape me—or how different I would feel when I returned.

Central Europe Discovery changed my life. From exploring historic landmarks with new friends to standing together during Havdalah in Prague and sharing deeply meaningful moments in Poland, this experience gave me something I had always wanted: to travel with people who truly understood me. What started as a group quickly became a family. Even in the hardest moments, we showed up for each other in ways that felt rare and genuine.

While the friendships made the trip special, the places we visited gave it lasting significance. Across Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and Poland, I walked through history—visiting Jewish quarters, memorials, and sites that carry immense weight. The most impactful of all was Auschwitz-Birkenau. No amount of preparation could have prepared me for standing there. It was overwhelming, sobering, and deeply emotional.

That experience didn’t just leave an impression—it sparked something in me. It gave me a sense of responsibility to educate others and ensure these stories continue to be told.

Since returning home, I’ve worked to turn that into action. Through my capstone project and my work as a Kenneth Leventhal intern with StandWithUs, I focused on Holocaust education in my community—organizing my school’s first Holocaust Remembrance Day assembly, working with teachers to create programs, and leading discussions that encouraged reflection and connection. These experiences pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me find my voice.

None of this would have been possible without BBYO—without Perlman, and without Central Europe. Those experiences didn’t just shape my time here; they shaped who I am and who I’m still becoming.

Now, before I get to my candlelighters, it wouldn’t be BBYO without a top 10: 

10. Put yourself out there 

9. Go on a BBYO summer Program, Passport, or leadership, you choose. 

8. Meet new people, it's easier than you think  

7. Join Press Corps, trust me on this one. 

6. Don't make BBYO your entire life, although at times it may feel like it; there is so much more in life. 

5.  Branch out from your friend group 

4. Appreciate the people who keep this movement alive - Thank you so much, Yonas, Bekkah, and Andrea. 

3. Trust your gut 

2. Let yourself feel everything

1. And most importantly, BE YOURSELF 

Now for my candle lighters:

Molly: Even though your time in BBYO hasn’t officially started, I hope you decide to join and try at least one summer program (and if you choose cheer, I’ll still be just as happy). You have so much ahead of you as a leader.

Tova: I’ve loved watching you fall in love with BBYO the way I have. I can’t wait to see everything you do this term and beyond — your future is so bright.

Melanie: You go above and beyond in everything you do. Meeting you at IC was so special, and I am so proud of everything you’ve done this year. Your future is incredible.

Avery: My baby, Avery. Watching you thrive at IC and on Emunah board has been unforgettable. Keep putting yourself out there — you’re destined for greatness.

Elieana: Elie Bear, the most precious girl. You have the kindest heart and are one of the strongest people I know. You’re going to make so much change one day.

Lacey: I can’t fully put into words how much I appreciate you. You’ve been one of my biggest cheerleaders this year, and I’m so lucky I met you in Europe. I wouldn’t have made it through without our laughs, your edits, and everything in between.

Finally, to everyone:

Please don't be a stranger. If you're ever in Allentown….come visit!  Roll Mules!

Now, for one last time, respectfully submitted with undying love, I forever remain, Rebecca Frances Firestone, a DAMN proud BBG!