Naftali Tilove, a 17-year-old student at Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, has been elected as the 38th Grand Aleph Shaliach on BBYO’s 102nd Grand Aleph International Board, one of the highest teen leadership roles within BBYO. The election took place at BBYO’s International Convention (IC) 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
In this role, Tilove will work alongside fellow International Board members to help guide BBYO’s programs, priorities and vision for the year ahead. Together, the International Board serves as BBYO’s primary teen leadership body, representing Jewish teens around the world and shaping experiences that reach thousands of members worldwide.
“Being elected to the International Board of BBYO as the Grand Aleph Shaliach is an incredible honor. BBYO has been the greatest thing to ever happen to me, and I am thrilled to give back to the movement that has given me so much,” Tilove said. “In this role, I am excited to help every teen in BBYO explore their own unique Jewish journey, and the chance to work with peers around the world is truly humbling. Together, I know we can make a lasting impact on our global community.”
As Grand Aleph Shaliach, Tilove will focus on strengthening Jewish life, learning and connection across BBYO, with an emphasis on creating spaces where every Jewish teen feels a true sense of belonging. Drawing from years of chapter and regional leadership, Tilove approaches this role with a deep commitment to pluralism and a passion for meeting teens where they are in their Jewish journeys.
Working closely with the International Sh’lichim Network, Tilove will help oversee BBYO’s Stand UP and Speak UP initiatives and support Jewish ritual and educational moments across BBYO’s programs and experiences. Central to this work is the belief that Jewish identity is deeply personal and that BBYO can serve as a welcoming home for teens of all backgrounds, practices and perspectives.
Tilove is also passionate about expanding thoughtful, honest and educational engagement about Israel, with the goal of empowering teens to build their own meaningful, individual connections. By fostering dialogue, education and exposure to diverse voices, Tilove hopes to help teens feel informed, confident and supported as they explore their relationship with Israel and the global Jewish community.
“On behalf of the entire Kansas City community, we are beyond proud to celebrate Naftali Tilove on his election as BBYO’s Grand Aleph Shaliach,” said Amy Ravis Furey, senior regional director of BBYO’s Mid-America Region. “Naftali’s passion for Jewish life and deep connection to our values will inspire Alephs and BBGs around the world to deepen their Jewish identity, strengthen their communities and bravely shape the future of our movement and the Jewish people.”
More information about BBYO in the Mid-America Region and the Kansas City Council, is available at bbyo.org or by contacting Amy Ravis Furey at .