BBYO's International Convention 2021 was different, but this doesn't mean teens weren't able to make worldwide connections and reencounter virtually with friends from all around the globe. 

Latin America made sure to create an environment in which we could all feel accompanied and comfortable. Communication was key to continue building relationships and strengthening them. 

In order to wrap up the weekend as we should, on Sunday we had the BBYO Latin America Meetup. As I planned this virtual encounter the weeks before IC, I knew I wanted to have the teens think about the future of our region by planning their dream (and possibly to bring to life) Regional Convention. Here's what each group came up with:

GROUP 1

• Location: Cancun, Mexico. In a hotel by the beach.
• COVID-19 considerations: everyone must be tested before the convention and results must be negative.
• Capacity: 250 people.
• Special guests/speakers: Diplo, Juanpa Zurita, Luis Miguel, Happie Hoffman, Eric Hunker, Mirtha Legrand, Moria Casan, Anya Taylor-Joy, J Balvin, Ozuna, Money Heist's cast (La Casa de Papel).
• Programs/activities: inflatables in the sea, costume party, beach camping, shuk outlet, iconic dinner with Mirtha Legrand, bonfire Havdalah by the beach.
• Slogan: “LATAM es fiesta… Ya tu sabes”
• Extra information: teens from Spain are invited too.

GROUP 2

• Group name: ¡Latamos Rompiendo!
• Location: Cancun, Mexico.
• Date: from December 25th (2021) to January 1st (2022) + January LATAM Executives Conference (January 2nd - January 7th) + LATAM Elections (January 7th).
• Capacity: +200 people.
• Special guests/speakers: Adam Sandler, Ester Exposito, Tini, Danna Paola, J Balvin.
• Programs/activities: special New Year event, Execs, Elections, culture celebration, 3 to 4 hours of plenaries each day, Olympics.
• Extra information: programs 24/7, teens from Spain are invited too.

GROUP 3

• Location: Cancun, Mexico.
• COVID-19 considerations: everyone must be tested with a negative result before traveling and at the beginning of the convention.
• Date: July/August (to be decided)!
• Capacity: unlimited.
• Special guests/speakers: Bad Bunny, Shakira, Adam Sandler, Greta Thunberg.
• Programs/activities: each day's meals based on a different country, each night a different themed party (beach party, color party, etcetera).

*Yup, it seems like we all love Mexico.