A group of 14 Stamford teens attended the AIPAC Policy Conference earlier this month, accompanied by Rabbi Danny Cohen of Congregation Agudath Sholom and his daughter, Michal, and Young Israel of Stamford youth director Isaiah Rothstein. Here are what two of those teens had to say about their experience:

Jonah Listokin: “The Netanyahu/Congress/Obama tensions made for an impetus that inspired me to once again lobby on behalf of Israel. As a student I find a profound responsibility to take on the role of the generation before us and to continue the meaningful advocacy for my home away from home.”

Jenna Plotzky: “Walking into a room with 16,000 people all rooting and fighting for a good cause is one of the best feelings in the world. With countless speakers, innovation, workshops, meals, and interesting attendees, you are surrounded with learning and growth opportunities. I recently learned about agency and self-identity – more importantly, how one creates and activates these inside oneself… Being part of something bigger than me, something that is truly helping others and advancing the world, while also expanding my own identity, is the root reason I have activated my individual and collective agency and made my voice heard by lobbying and attending this conference.”