Leadership in Action: J Leaders Academy Fellows Make Real-World Impact

Leadership is about turning ideas into action. Each year, our J Leaders Academy fellows engage in small group projects that allow them to apply what they’ve learned, collaborate with others, and make a real impact in the community. 

This year’s small group projects are no exception. We are excited to share the incredible work that our fellows completed in partnership with various Jewish community organizations.

Here’s a look at the inspiring small group projects this year:

Small Group 1: Oy Vey It’s Hot – A Fireside Chat on Climate Action

In the face of rising climate challenges, many Jewish values speak to the importance of preserving the Earth and its resources. Oy Vey It’s Hot brought together community members for an engaging fireside chat on how Jewish values intersect with climate action.

Partnering with Dayenu, a climate advocacy organization, this group hosted a discussion featuring Israeli climate-tech entrepreneur Edo Perry and Susan Stephenson from Interfaith Power & Light. The conversation delved into lessons the United States and California can learn from Israel’s climate policies, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Small Group 2: Community Shabbat Dinner – A Conversation on Healthy Relationships

This year’s Community Shabbat Dinner blended the warmth of Shabbat with a vital discussion on healthy relationships. Our Academy fellows partnered with Shalom Bayit for an intimate dinner for a meaningful conversation about recognizing red flags, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering mutually supportive relationships.

The event featured a talk by a relationship and domestic violence expert, followed by a guided discussion on how to create safer spaces in our relationships and communities.

“We had an amazing event!” said Rina, one of the Academy Fellows and event organizers. “We had about 20 people join us for a wonderful dinner and interesting discussion regarding healthy relationships.”

Small Group 3: Sapphic Shabbat – Queer Jewish Feminist Celebration

In a celebration of queer joy and Jewish pride, Sapphic Shabbat brought together over 30 queer Jewish feminists from across Northern California. This event, which marked International Women’s Day, was a beautiful space for the LGBTQ+ community to come together for food, conversation, and Havdalah.

“It was magical,” said Amy, a J Leaders Academy Fellow and member of the organizing team. “We learned so much about ourselves, working as a team, and the demand for more events like this.”

The group’s focus was on creating an inclusive and empowering Shabbat experience where queer and feminist identities could inform the rituals, discussions, and community-building. This initiative highlights the power of Shabbat as a time for rest, resilience, and connection.

Small Group 4: Sacred Circuits

Innovation meets tradition in Sacred Circuits, a project that fused art, ritual, and AI in a meaningful way. This small group facilitated the final session of Jewbilee 2025: Powering Creativity, hosted by Jewish Silicon Valley and the Jewish Studio Project. The session was a powerful closing ritual that helped process the day’s learning and inspire future action.

“What a blessing to support this talent group of emerging community leaders,” said Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia, Chief Community Officer at Jewish Silicon Valley. “Working with J Leaders Academy fellows fills me with hope for the Jewish future. This collaboration was particularly uplifting.”

Small Group 5: It’s Giving… Circle – Supporting the Fight Against Antisemitism

In partnership with the SF Jewish Community Federation, the It’s Giving… Circle group launched a Giving Circle event that brought young adults together to raise awareness and funds for organizations combating antisemitism.

The group facilitated a conversation to build consensus on where funds could be most effectively directed. 

The giving circle ultimately supported two organizations: Shalom Hartman Institute and Sharaka. This initiative demonstrated the power of collective action in addressing critical issues and fostering solidarity within the Jewish community.

Conclusion

Each of these small group projects exemplifies the essence of leadership — the ability to act on one’s values and create a meaningful impact in the community. Whether it’s addressing climate change, supporting healthy relationships, or celebrating queer Jewish identities, our fellows continue to demonstrate the power of leadership in action.

These projects not only reflect the passion and commitment of the J Leaders Academy fellows, but also underscore the importance of collaboration, learning, and growth. As we look ahead, we’re excited to see how these leaders will continue to shape the community and the world.

If you’re ready to take action and develop your leadership skills, we invite you to express interest in the next cohort of J Leaders Academy. Together, we can create the change we want to see in the world.