The Jewish Youth Assembly (JYA) brings together passionate Jewish students aged 15–18 to explore global Jewish communities, tackle real-world challenges, and make their voices heard. Inspired by the World Jewish Congress (WJC), JYA offers a behind-the-scenes look at international Jewish advocacy while building leadership and problem-solving skills. Participants will join a virtual kickoff session in January before meeting in person at BBYOIC in Philadelphia for an exclusive JYA track, where delegates will gain practical tools and work together to draft a resolution on a key issue shaping the Jewish future.
In 2026, 40 students from over 16 countries came together to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing Jewish communities today. Together, they drafted a resolution, networked with their peers from around the world, met leaders of Jewish communities, and heard from world-renowned speakers at BBYOIC. You can learn more about last year's Jewish Youth Assembly by clicking here.
In 2023, the World Jewish Congress and BBYO joined forces in an exciting and strategic partnership aimed at elevating the next generation of Jewish leaders, both in high school and beyond. This dynamic collaboration brings forth an extraordinary initiative: the in-person Jewish Youth Assembly (JYA) experience. JYA was conceived with a clear mission in mind—enhancing the education of high school Jewish student leaders while also introducing them to the broader global Jewish community and the shared challenges we face. This partnership serves as a catalyst to advance JYA's mission.
Learn more about BBYO International Convention here.
Gain an understanding of global Jewish communities
Meet topic experts and Jewish community leaders
Network with peers from countries around the world
Engage in detailed conversation on the future of the Jewish people
Learn from today’s top Jewish voices
Build your CV and prepare for your university experience
The 2026 Jewish Youth Assembly cohort will meet for an online virtual session in February before IC. During BBYO IC 2026 in Philadelphia, JYA delegates will attend exclusive Wednesday and Thursday programming as a part of February Executives Conference, a Friday LEADS Track, and a Saturday Limmud and Luncheon.
February // Session 1
A welcome to the Jewish Youth Assembly and deep dive into the World Jewish Congress.
BBYO IC // Session 2
Be a full participant at BBYOIC 2026 and meet friends from over 50 countries around the world!
BBYO IC // Session 3
Attend exclusive JYA sessions with top notch speakers.
BBYOIC // Session 4
Deep dive into the 2026 JYA resolution.
BBYOIC // Session 5
Hard skills workshop.
BBYOIC // Session 6
Draft a resolution addressing one of the most pressing issues facing the global Jewish community
JYA is open to individuals aged 15-18 years attending BBYO International Convention. Proficiency in English is necessary to participate. Applications are now closed.
BBYO is the leading pluralistic Jewish teen movement aspiring to involve more Jewish teens in more meaningful Jewish experiences.