On October 23-26th, more than 3,000 people gathered in Hollywood, Florida for the Jewish National Fund USA Global Conference for Israel, and among them were 150 Yavneh student fellows, 50 young professional fellows, and 15 staff members representing Yavneh on Campus a program of JLIC.
Through Yavneh’s partnership with JNF-USA, students from across the country joined an inspiring weekend of learning, community, and connection. The conference featured thought-provoking sessions and powerful speakers, including released hostage Omer Shem Tov, whose story deeply moved participants.
Shabbat was one of the highlights of the weekend, as Yavneh fellows brought tremendous ruach, leading davening, singing, and dancing throughout the meals. Several Yavneh students also took on leadership roles, including moderating sessions and facilitating discussions.
One memorable session featured Israeli Olympic judo medalist Sagi Muki and Iranian World Champion Saeid Mollaei, who spoke about their friendship despite political tensions between their countries. A Yavneh fellow from the West Coast, who is of Persian descent, interpreted farsi so the audience could fully follow the conversation.
In total, more than 400 college students attended the conference, creating an incredible opportunity to connect with peers from other campus organizations and explore JNF-USA’s wide-reaching impact.
“The JNF-USA Global Conference in Hollywood, Florida really opened my eyes to the big picture,” said Leora Birman, one of the Yavneh students who attended. “I was able to see how many people are really invested in JNF’s mission. It was so meaningful and demonstrated how far Yavneh’s impact reaches. I’m so happy that Yavneh is part of our family.”
Looking ahead, many Yavneh students will continue their JNF-USA journey on Alternative Winter Break in Israel, where they will volunteer with JNF-USA projects, meet local communities, and see firsthand the impact of JNF’s work on the ground. After hearing about JNF’s initiatives and meeting its supporters at the conference, students are even more excited to experience Israel through this lens and feel personally connected to the organization’s greater mission.
As students returned to campus, they brought with them new friendships, a deeper understanding of Israel advocacy, and renewed passion for Jewish life and leadership through Yavneh.
Yavneh thanks JNF-USA for bringing them to this conference and for supporting their work on campuses across the country.
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