Peter Hoffman

An influential program’s hallmark is how it affects participants’ lives — not only during, but long after the experience concludes. While our J Leaders’ Academy’s now come to a close, the next phase relies on each of us to institute the program’s values into everything we do moving forward. The good news is, none of us are alone! We not only have each other, but also new concepts with which to encourage our development. Additionally, there’s even more afoot to support everyone on their future quests. That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce the J Leaders Innovation Grant initiative, which is kicking off with a Mini Grant Program. This program supports J Leaders alumni to further develop leadership skills, as well as make a lasting impact on their communities.

Jews are the second-most targeted group for hate crimes in the U.S., yet they are only 2% of the population. They have experienced injustice and anti-semitism throughout all of history, and in all locations of the world. My home country Argentina was a target for two terrorist attacks on the Jewish Community. What can we do, as Jews, to have an impact on this historic hatred?

I grew up engaging in traditional American Judaism, and like other secular millennials, I attended Sunday school, synagogue with my family, a Jewish summer camp, became a bar mitzvah, as well as attended a popular program for American Jewish youth in Israel. But as I have gone through my 20’s, I am observing that others in my generation are choosing not to actively engage in these same traditional Jewish institutions.

As a young adult, I’ve come to realize that non-traditional spaces often make me most comfortable with and connected to Judaism and the Jewish community. I choose to embrace and explore my Jewish identity through programs for young Jewish professionals, including one I’ve become involved with lately – J Leaders.

What comes to mind when you think about networking? Maybe that it’s uncomfortable or only necessary when you’re looking for a job? I definitely thought the latter; I had stopped attending career-related meetups shortly after landing my job. But by the end of that J Leaders Academy session, my mindset had changed.

“What is more important to you? Work or rest?” Seems like a simple enough question, but we quickly discovered that individual J Leaders have very different opinions when it comes to how these priorities currently show up in our lives.

I had some high expectations going into the first J Leaders Academy retreat. You see, I’ve always prioritized professional and personal development. My day job is at a career development company. My side hustle is in career coaching. I spend my free time practicing mindfulness and journaling. I studied leadership development and psychology in college. I’ve done my fair share of experiences about becoming my “best self.”

With that said, my expectations were exceeded. The J Leaders Academy retreat was a marvelous experience full of new insights and learnings. What made this retreat so special? Let me tell you.

Working this summer with J Leaders, I have been immersed in a community of passionate and hardworking people, dedicated to fostering leadership growth among Jewish young professionals. Going into my Kohn Summer internship, I wasn’t sure what to expect from my remote position as the first ever J Leaders intern, but I am proud to say it exceeded all expectations. I am truly grateful for Peter’s guidance, knowledge, and mentorship throughout this summer.