Our Staff

Staff are at the heart of the Passport experience. Our programs are staffed by a highly selective group of licensed guides, community professionals, informal educators and emerging leaders. Many of our staff return each summer and bring a passion for leadership, mentoring, and creating inspirational travel experiences.

Staff Structure

Each program is staffed by 2-3 North American counselors, a licensed guide/educator, and a dedicated coach bus driver. Our typical teen-to-staff ratio does not exceed nine-to-one. In Israel and in South Africa, our programs are accompanied by a licensed medic/security escort. In Europe, most of our programs are co-led by a local tour manager as well as an Israeli guide/educator.

Staff Selection & Qualifications

North American counselors come from diverse backgrounds and are carefully chosen from a large pool of applicants according to their experience.

BBYO Passport counselors are considered based on the following qualifications:

• Completed at least four years of college
• Demonstrated background working with teens
  (e.g. camp counselors, teachers, youth group advisors)
• Significant travel experience and a background in informal education
  
• Natural leadership skills and ability to work within a team setting.
• Strong Jewish background and ability to lead inclusive Shabbat experiences