Twenty-three young Jewish leaders gathered in Moscow for an enriching five-day training program at the YAHAD Leadership School, marking its first seminar of 2025. The program, held in early February, represents a significant milestone in FJC’s youth organization’s ongoing mission to strengthen Jewish community leadership across the region.

“This leadership school represents a crucial investment in our future,” said Rabbi Mendy Wilansky, YAHAD director. “By empowering our youth leaders with both practical skills and Jewish values, we’re building a stronger foundation for Jewish community life across the region.”

The YAHAD Leadership School, designed to address the unique challenges faced by Jewish youth leaders in the Former Soviet Union, provides comprehensive training that combines traditional Jewish teachings with modern leadership techniques. The curriculum focuses particularly on emotional intelligence and pedagogical skills – essential tools for engaging young people in Jewish community life.

Under the guidance of experienced educators including Rabbi Baruch Eisman, Yael Khrolenok, Rabbi Menachem Bushan, Nesia Bushan, and project leader Rabbi Shneur Kosenko, participants explored diverse topics crucial to their roles.

Sessions ranged from practical event planning and kashrut implementation to more nuanced subjects like effective communication with religious leadership and the development of engaging educational content.

The intimate setting allowed participants to receive personalized mentoring while building valuable connections with fellow youth leaders who share similar challenges and aspirations. This peer network becomes an important resource as they return to their respective communities, where many serve as primary organizers of Jewish youth activities.