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?
Continue ReadingJ Leaders: Affirming Jewish Identity In Non-Traditional Spaces
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.
Continue ReadingEnough with the Networking. Let’s Start Building Relationships.
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.
Continue ReadingWhy I Get My Best Ideas In The Shower, aka, Why Rest Is Vital For Our Leadership
“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.
Continue ReadingThe J Leaders Academy Retreat Blew Me Away
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.
Continue ReadingInterning with J leaders Exceeded All Expectations
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.
Continue ReadingThe J Leaders Academy – A Priceless Opportunity
The three most common reasons Jews connect with Judaism growing up is that they attend a Jewish day school, participate in Jewish summer camp, or visit Israel through a Birthright or family trip. But once college is completed and work life begins – often away from our families, our Jewish identity is truly in our own hands- perhaps for the very first time. So how can young adult Jews begin to explore and express their own identity, especially if they, like myself, are less observant and do not attend synagogue services regularly?
One great answer is to participate in the J Leaders Academy.
Continue ReadingCongrats 2021-22 J Leaders Academy Fellows
A heartfelt congratulations to our graduating J Leaders Leadership Academy cohort fellows. We couldn’t be more proud of the commitment and accomplishments of our 2021-22 fellows. Through two weekend Shabbaton retreats and 15 virtual interactive sessions, fellows explored their own personal leadership style, strengths, and aspirations.
Continue ReadingHappy One Year Anniversary J Leaders!
April 29, 2022 marks the one year anniversary of J leaders IRS incorporation with the IRS as a 501(c)3 non profit. It’s been an incredible year for J Leaders! We’ve accomplished so much in a short period of time, due to the tireless and committed effort of so many people, and the contributions from so […]
Continue ReadingIsland and Continent: A Story about a Kaifeng Jew and Rabbi Einhorn in Taiwan
I’m Josh, a descendant of the Kaifeng Jewish community. I studied under Rabbi Ephraim Ferdinand Einhorn when I was a Master student in Taiwan. Rabbi Einhorn passed away at 103 years old and I feel it’s my duty to share the story about Rabbi Einhorn and me.
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