Initiative to strengthen next generation representation

Participating in the Ofir International Leadership Program, Zionism Victoria’s Elyse Schachna is travelling to Israel and Budapest this week for the second stage of the program, which brings together Jewish leaders together to explore the opportunities and challenges facing contemporary Jewish life.

The group of emerging Jewish leaders has launched the ‘Our Turn at the Table’, a global initiative calling on Jewish communal organisations to ensure that at least one board position is held by a person under the age of 35. The initiative seeks to address one of the most pressing challenges facing Jewish communities worldwide: ensuring that younger generations are not only engaged in communal life, but are actively involved in shaping its future.

The project was born from a shared recognition that while Jewish communities continue to invest heavily in young people, many remain absent from the decision-making tables where the future of those communities is determined.

The international leadership program is named in memory of Ofir Libstein, the late head of the Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council in Israel, who was murdered on 7 October 2023 defending his community.  This initiative seeks to continue his legacy by investing in the next generation of Jewish leadership.

Schachna said the ‘Our Turn at the Table’ project is about ensuring Jewish leadership reflects the communities it serves.

“Strong communities are built on diverse perspectives, experiences and ideas. If we want our institutions to remain vibrant, relevant and sustainable, we must create meaningful pathways for younger people to participate in leadership and decision-making,” she said.

“Representation is not simply about age. It is about ensuring that the next generation is heard, valued and empowered to contribute to the future of Jewish communal life.”

She added, “Our Turn at the Table is not about replacing existing leaders. It is about creating partnerships between generations, encouraging mentorship, and ensuring that younger voices are represented where important decisions are made.”

Joining Schachna in the international program are leaders from across the globe: Avi Steinberg of Israel, an educator and social leader who leads the Asper Youth and Young Adults Empowerment Network; Alejandro Wajner of Uruguay, an entrepreneur and long-time communal leader focused on civic engagement and generational transition; Viktor Nojman of Serbia, Chief of Staff of the Jewish Community of Belgrade and a leading figure in Jewish communal development and restitution efforts; and Zev Gershinsky of Israel, a senior leader at Nefesh B’Nefesh who has dedicated much of his career to strengthening Jewish communities and supporting Jewish migration to Israel.