What is BAFTY?
BAFTY (Beth Am Federation of Temple Youth) is our high school youth group for teens in grades 9-12. BAFTY brings together a diverse group of Jewish teens to engage in Judaic programming, form lasting friendships, and participate in amazing programs.
BAFTY meets once a week during the first hour of Monday Night CHAI for programming created and directed by its fantastic teen leaders on the BAFTY Board.
Teens and their peers will enjoy amazing, impactful activities that explore social justice issues, leadership skills, Jewish identity, global culture, and life!
Learn more about BAFTY, email [email protected]
Mission Statement
Empowering passionate teens, BAFTY cultivates a safe space, uniting them into a vibrant Jewish community. Our mission is to foster personal growth, deepen Jewish identity, and forge lasting friendships. Through shared experiences, we discover our individuality, embrace our Jewish heritage, and nurture meaningful connections.
To sign up for BAFTY use the links below.
If you are enrolled in Monday Night CHAI or Confirmation, you are ALREADY enrolled in BAFTY.
Meet Your 2026-2027/5787
BAFTY Board
Gaby Kushner
President
Neve Salem
Programming VP
Ben Debowsky
Social Action VP
Layla James
Religious & Cultural VP
Charlie Sebaoun
Communications VP
Savanah Freedman
Membership VP
Lizzie Debowsky
9th grade Member at Large
Jesse Messinger
10th grade Member at Large
Alexia Avial
11th Grade Member at Large
Leo Krislav
12th Grade Member at Large
North American Federation of Temple Youth
An important aspect of our programming is our membership with the Union for Reform Judaism’s national youth movement; the North American Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY). NFTY is comprised of over 450 youth groups spanning the United States and Canada and are divided into geographical regions.
BAFTY is part of the Southern Tropical Region (NFTY-STR). As a member of NFTY-STR, BAFTY teens have the opportunity to meet other Jewish teens from around the state of Florida when they participate in regional events hosted by Temples in our region. Regional events are called Kallot and are held throughout the school year.
