Though I have only been a part of BBYO for about a year and a half, there are a few key moments that have made a great impact on me in order of occurrence.

1. My first BBYO event:
   The first event I had ever attended was a cupcake decorating with my chapter, Neshama BBG. At that time, I was in eighth grade and most of my chapter consisted of juniors and seniors. Despite this, I was welcomed into the event and felt accepted into the chapter. I also was able to spend time with other girls my age that I had not seen in a while, and we were able to reconnect and grow closer.
2. HVR’s 2024 Winter Kickoff:
   I attended this event with my family friend who I hadn’t spent time with in a while. Though we were out of our comfort zones, we still had fun hanging out. The actual event was not the highlight for me, though it was fun. Instead, the highlight was the time I had with my friend all night. We got dinner together and created a lasting memory that I reflect on whenever I think about BBYO.
3. My first BBYO convention:
   Though I planned to attend the convention with my family friend, she had to show up late, and I had to walk in alone. When I pulled up to the front of the hotel I began to panic. I knew no one and was super nervous. But when I walked in, an older member of my chapter greeted me. She saw that I felt super lost and left her friends to sit with me and make sure I wasn’t alone. This act of kindness left a lasting impact on me. The fact that she just wanted me to enjoy BBYO even though she barely knew me really stuck in my mind. This is only one of my most prominent BBYO experiences because now I am on chapter board, and at my events my personal goal is to make sure everybody feels this welcome.
4. Regional elections:
   This event stuck with me for so many reasons. Though I had just begun BBYO, I was able to see how dedicated people were to this organization. I saw the impact people had made in the past and the changes they want to make in the future. In addition, the international N’siah attended the event. I was shocked by the lengths people will go to help further this organization for people like me. This event inspired me to run for chapter board, as well. I saw all these girls talking about what they thought this organization was capable of, and I felt like I wanted to be a part of it.
5. Running a Chapter Separates Program:
   This event took an immense amount of planning. Our chapter board texted 50 people, posted online, and sent emails out in order to gain a successful turnout for this event. I was very excited for the program and had attended separates before, but I never spoke much. At this event, I had to tell 30 girls some of my insecurities and weaknesses. This was terrifying, but what really helped me was having the rest of the board by my side. We were all new to this, and we all had each other. The event went well, everyone spoke confidently, and we inducted many new members into our chapter. This moment stood out to me because I felt the bond our board had with each other and I felt the impact we were able to make on so many people.