Thousands of Jewish teens from around the world gathered in New York City for the 18th annual CTeen International Summit, Feb. 19-22. Among them were 16 members of CTeen Bellaire, joining the global celebration for what organizers called the largest gathering of Jewish teens in the world.
Bellaire-area teens joined more than 4,500 participants, representing roughly 900 chapters across 60 countries. The event culminated in the “Live the Life Event” on the final day. The program, broadcast globally, encouraged teens to embrace and proudly express their Jewish identity at a time of rising antisemitism and social pressure.
“[The Summit] ignites a sense of Jewish pride that stays with our teens long after the weekend ends,” said Esty Zaklikofsky, co-director of CTeen Bellaire. “It gives them the confidence to live their faith openly and happily in a world that often challenges their values as Jewish teens.”
For the teens from Bellaire, the experience offered both connection and empowerment, as they stood alongside peers facing similar challenges in schools and communities worldwide.
“Every program kept us engaged,” said Logan Mendelovitz, an 11th-grader at Lamar High School. “Shabbat was incredibly meaningful and our host families were so generous, especially helping us out when the snowstorm hit New York. I made so many new friendships and connections that I can’t wait to see again next year!”
Isabel Gomar, a 12th-grader at St. Francis Episcopal School, highlighted the empowerment she felt. “Standing in Times Square with thousands of Jewish teens felt powerful. We were sending a message to the world that we’re proud of who we are. This experience inspired me to embrace my Judaism even more openly.”
First-time attendee Ella Navon, an 11th-grader at The Emery/Weiner School and first-time attendee, reflected on the global connection. “It was amazing seeing teens from around the world share the same passion for Judaism. I met so many incredible people, and it made me feel more connected than ever to my faith.”
All three teens said they can’t wait to bring these experiences and connections back to Bellaire and to return to the Summit next year.
The closing ceremony featured speakers and performers, including UCLA student Eli Tsives, who has spoken out against campus antisemitism, and Jewish content creators promoting Jewish pride on social media. Athletes, entrepreneurs and musician Nissim Black also appeared, showcasing diverse expressions of Jewish identity.
For teens from Bellaire, the weekend was not just about attending a large-scale event; it was about bringing its message back to their own schools and community. As organizers emphasized, the Summit, in particular, was about choosing to respond to hate not with retreat, but with visibility, pride and light.
To learn about CTeen Bellaire, contact Zaklikofsky at info@jewishbellaire.com.