Thirty dedicated coordinators and counselors from JFuture children’s Jewish branches across various cities in Russia, gathered in Moscow for a three-day conference, held at the New Bereg Yacht Hotel. The vibrant seminar offered a dynamic and practical program focused on strengthening the non-formal educational work within the expanding JFuture network.
The 18 coordinators and 10 counselors participants, took part in varied sessions on non-formal Jewish education, Eco-friendly communication, and approaches to discussing Jewish values with children in an engaging and meaningful way. In addition the JFuture Skills Lab provided hands-on workshops covering public speaking, mobile photography, artificial intelligence, effective feedback, recruitment strategies, and creative programming.
The sessions were led by leading lecturers and professionals, including Rebbetzin Edna Amiragov, Miriam Mayorova, Kristina Shulman, Eliya-Avital Digilova, Keren Kozelskaya, Maria Simanovich, Natalia Kuleshova, Mikhail Dichenko, and Khana Shaulova.
A special highlight of the conference was the “PowerPoint Party,” an interactive format that allowed participants to present their own methods and experiences. Coordinators from Volgograd, Irkutsk, and Yekaterinburg, together with counselors from Petersburg, shared successful practices and insights from their local branches.
“Witnessing the dedication and devotion of the JFuture team, is truly inspiring. A group of talented professionals who seek to genuinely impact the lives of the future generation of FSU Jewry” said Rabbi Shlomo Neeman, Head of the FJC Educational Department
The conference concluded with a festive gala banquet and an awards ceremony recognizing the dedication and achievements of coordinators and counselors throughout the year. Honors included “Reliable Harbor” for strong work with parents, “Discovery of New Lands” for expanding participation, “Lighthouse” for supporting colleagues, “Creative Navigator” for innovation, “Dream Team” for outstanding results, “Guiding Star” for dedication, “Navigator of Talents” for nurturing each child’s strengths, and “Welcome to the Team” for a newly opened branch – highlighting the continued growth and impact of the JFuture program.
JFuture is an international educational project operating under the auspices of the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC), focused on engaging children and their families with Jewish life in a meaningful and accessible way. Through a network of clubs in dozens of cities, JFuture combines interactive learning, values-based education, and community-building activities, helping young participants develop a strong sense of identity and belonging while supporting parents in creating a warm and connected Jewish home environment.
