A powerful expression of unity, growth, and vision unfolded this week in Jerusalem, as the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC) launched Forum FJC 5786—an intensive five-day gathering of senior leaders from its broad network of educational, humanitarian, and community initiatives. Held at the Vert Hotel, the forum brought together leading figures from across the FSU to reflect on 35 years of revived Jewish life and to chart a bold course forward, enriched by new technologies, integrated strategies, and shared purpose.
Operating under the guidance of community rabbis and Chabad emissaries, the forum convened educators, program directors, humanitarian professionals, and administrators who together represent the core of the FJC ongoing efforts.
For more than three decades, these initiatives have rebuild Jewish life and identity across a region once silenced, and the message of this forum was clear: a new wave of coordinated action is now underway. By integrating cutting-edge AI technologies and fostering closer cooperation among all participating organizations, Forum FJC 5786 signals a renewed commitment to reaching every Jew—regardless of location or affiliation—with meaningful Jewish engagement and support.
“What we are witnessing is a new, energized phase in the blossoming revival of Jewish life in the post-Soviet space,” said one of the forum’s organizers. “Here, in one place, dozens of organizations and first-class professionals are coming together to lead this movement forward for the hundreds of thousands of Jews who rely on us.”
Throughout the forum, participants shared insights from their respective fields, introduced new methodologies, engaged in strategy sessions and AI workshops, and explored collaborative opportunities that transcend national borders. They also took part in guided tours and cultural outings in Jerusalem, reinforcing the bond between their work and the Jewish identity.
Among the many projects represented were Darkeinu, the unique Jewish heritage curriculum initiative in Russian, Ukrainian, and Georgian; JFuture, the Hebrew Sunday school network; SmartJ, an after-school learning program for children; EnerJew, the largest and most active Jewish youth movement in the region; and the broad student programming networks YAHAD and STARS. The Or Avner educational network, serving thousands of Jewish students across the region, was also represented, alongside the Or Menachem online school, Gan Israel Jewish summer camp network, the GoTov initiative, and key humanitarian organizations such as JRNU, LifeChanger and ForLife.
“You are doing far more than providing services,” one senior organizer told the participants. “You are shaping the next generation of Jewish life in the former Soviet Union. Each Jew you reach is an entire world.”
The forum concluded with a distinguished appreciation event, attended by President of Israel Isaac Herzog, Minister Ze’ev Elkin, Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar, Yael Eckstein of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, and other prominent figures. Their presence underscores the significance of the work carried out by these organizations and the vital role of Jewish life in the FSU—35 years after its reawakening, and now entering a new chapter of strength and unity.
