Hey AZA & BBG, it's Justin and Riley here! We can't believe we're already halfway through our term. Currently feeling: sad, amazed at what's been accomplished, excited for what's to come, and ready to finish the best term ever!!

In the first half of our term, the Voice Your Vote initiative has been a standout success in empowering BBYO teens to engage with civic responsibility. By organizing calls and emails with Voice Your Vote coordinators, we’ve helped amplify efforts to register new voters, host educational programming, and encourage conversations about the importance of voting. From creating accessible resources to inspiring teens to take action in their communities, this initiative has strengthened our movement’s commitment to being a force for positive change. Seeing how engaged teens have become in shaping their future through voting has been incredibly fulfilling.

The Legislation Library has become an essential resource for Alephs and BBGs worldwide, providing access to resolutions and motions passed by the AZA & BBG Executive Body. This platform empowers members to engage actively in our democratic processes by exploring existing legislation and submitting their own motions for future business meetings. By offering guidance on writing motions, understanding parliamentary procedures, and building constitutions, the Legislation Library ensures that every member has the tools to contribute meaningfully to our movement's governance.

This year, the high demand for ILTC has led to a waitlist for North American BBGs, which is an exciting reflection of how much teens value this leadership experience. ILTC continues to be one of the most impactful programs BBYO offers, bringing together motivated teens to strengthen their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of teamwork, and create meaningful connections. With immersive workshops, hands-on projects, and opportunities to shape the future of BBYO, this summer’s ILTC is set to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders to make a difference in their chapters, regions, and communities.

Although there are already so many wins in the first half, we are not slowing down for the second half!

IC Press Corps is gearing up to be a standout highlight of the next half of our term, showcasing the incredible storytelling talents of teens across the Movement. With IC bringing together thousands of Alephs and BBGs from around the world, Press Corps will take on the massive task of capturing the energy, excitement, and stories of this iconic event. From live social media updates to feature articles and even video content, this year’s Press Corps is set to be the most dynamic yet. The enthusiasm and creativity of these teen journalists will help bring IC to life for those attending and everyone following along from home.

We’re thrilled to relaunch the Sibling Communities program, which will strengthen connections between chapters across the BBYO Movement. This initiative will allow Alephs and BBGs from different regions—and even different countries—to collaborate, share ideas, and form meaningful friendships. By pairing chapters and providing structured opportunities for joint programming, discussions, and creative projects, the Sibling Communities program will foster a sense of global unity within BBYO. Relaunching this initiative is an exciting step toward creating a stronger, more connected Movement where everyone feels supported and inspired.

In partnership with the Global Democracy Coordinators and Committee, we’re excited to debut a new Parliamentary Procedure video as a resource in the BBYO Toolbox. This video will break down the basics of parliamentary procedure in an engaging and accessible way, making it easier for chapters and regions to run smooth, effective meetings. By incorporating this resource into chapter operations, we’re building stronger foundations for democratic leadership throughout BBYO.

We’re so excited for what's to come in the next six months, and we can't wait to take you all along for the ride! Until next time, AZA & BBG, we'll see you at International Convention :)

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