In July, the SmartJ project held two major seminars designed to train, inspire, and connect its active teams across the countries of the Former Soviet Union. Organized by the project’s central headquarters, the seminars took place in Moscow and Chișinău, bringing together around 140 participants—both experienced members and newcomers.
The first seminar, in Moscow, hosted staff from Russia and Belarus, while the second, in Chișinău, welcomed participants from other FSU countries. Each three-day gathering featured a rich and varied program, balancing professional development with opportunities for personal connection.
The seminars aimed to achieve two main goals: boosting motivation among veteran staff, and integrating new team members—part of the project’s expansion and the opening of new branches—by connecting them to SmartJ’s vision and values. Participants received an overview of the upcoming academic year’s program, shared knowledge and experiences, and built relationships across regions.
Workshops addressed topics such as motivation and coping with burnout, with special attention to the complex realities in the field today. Attendees discussed future plans, identified challenges, and developed ideas to strengthen activities and attract more children and teenagers to Jewish communities. Among the keynote speakers were Russia’s Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar, and Mr. Shlomo Neeman, Director of FJC’s Educational Programs.
“We are convinced that SmartJ is central and vital to the success of Jewish communities in the region,” said project director Mr. Alexander (Sasha) Shlimak. “We look to the future with confidence, knowing that our teams are committed, motivated, and ready to do everything possible to ensure that new children come to the communities, stay, and grow there—because in the community they find interest, learn new things, and make friends for life.”
SmartJ, operating within the framework of the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC) in cooperation with the Israeli Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, works to promote Jewish education and community life throughout the Former Soviet Union. Its mission is to strengthen the connection of children and youth to their Jewish identity and to create a supportive and engaging environment that encourages them to remain active members of their community.
