As summer drew to a close, each of the ten working groups moved closer to November’s milestone event, where they’ll pitch their ideas to the full council. From dry runs and feedback sessions to stakeholder interviews and ecosystem mapping, the past month has seen a surge in activity, and several teams have officially entered the final stretch of solution development.
Here’s a look at what’s happening across the council:
Tech, Media, and Relationship Building
Fellow Emily Kalo (Team 1 – Antisemitism) reported that her team has now split into three sub-groups, each focusing on a distinct project aligned with one of their core themes: technology, public relations, and personal relationships. What’s notable is that the entire group continues to function as a cohesive unit, sharing documents, exchanging feedback, and collaborating across all three concepts. A shared working doc has become the central hub for outlining project premises and assigning roles like research and visual support.
“Our team continues to excel… engaging in meaningful debate, and asking the ‘tough questions’.”
Pitch Season Begins
Fellow Daniel Mautner (Team 6 – Israel & Global Jewry Relations) noted that his team has entered pitch preparation mode, with several initiatives already undergoing test runs and peer feedback. While the overall dynamic has been positive, some members have had lighter involvement due to the holidays. One initiative has already completed a small pilot and another concept focuses on resource-sharing across Jewish communities. The next step: evaluating initiatives using a structured framework before finalizing which will move forward.
Feedback and Refinement
Fellow Aharon Bekley (Team 9 – Jewish Identity, Culture, and Heritage) shared that his team’s four sub-groups recently pitched their projects to an external expert for feedback. The group is now focused on applying that input, with each subgroup expected to bring a polished pitch to the October meeting for final dry runs. Engagement levels have varied across sub-groups, some are well-prepared, while others are still fine-tuning their concepts. As Aharon noted, watching all four groups present was a powerful moment of reflection on just how much has evolved over the past six months.
Momentum Grows with the Deadline
Fellow Ben Wolkowicz (Team 4 – Polarization) reported that each sub-group has selected its designated speaker for their pitches and scheduled their practice runs for October. He observed that momentum is clearly building as deadlines approach, with some of the less vocal participants now stepping up in new ways. He’s continued to support the teams between meetings by joining calls, assisting with presentations, and helping connect teams with outside resources. “We’re on the right path,” he said.
Structure, Support, and a Push for Involvement
Fellow David Gurov (Team 5 – Israel & Global Jewry Relations) has multiple projects in development and is now preparing for November’s presentations. Two initiatives already have preliminary decks drafted and are incorporating feedback. He’s helped document meetings and support teams as needed.
From Practice to Polish
Fellow Orah Yokhanan (Team 8 – Enhancing Jewish & Non-Jewish Relations) reported that both of her team’s initiatives have now undergone their first round of practice pitches and received internal feedback. The groups are now working on tightening their proposals ahead of an October pitch session with the VOP team. Despite ongoing geopolitical challenges, the team remains committed and hopeful. A Rosh Hashanah photo card and original group poem, shared in this update, reflected the spirit of unity and intention the group continues to bring to their work.
“As the shofar sounds, we rise anew,
A year unfolds, with purpose in view.
Together we gather, hearts aligned,
To heal, to bridge, to lift humankind.
From shadowed hate, we spark the light,
Against extremism, we boldly fight.
Communities polarized, we strive to unite,
With dialogue and courage, we bridge the night.
Jews all over the world, though oceans apart
We strengthen the bond, heart to heart.
With neighbors beside us, new bridges we create,
Through stories exchanged, our lives resonate.
Identity, history, our roots we reclaim,
Stories of courage, wisdom, and flame.
With each challenge faced, each barrier torn,
A more connected world is quietly born.
This Rosh Hashanah, may our purpose be clear,
To build with our neighbors a future sweet and sincere.
With justice and kindness guiding our way,
We choose hope together, this new year’s day.”
Testing the Hybrid Model
Fellow Gali Polichuk (Team 3 – Polarization) is finalizing her team’s hybrid in-person/online initiative. They’ve defined the problem, mapped potential partners, and explored integrating a tech platform. With the next full meeting set, team members are expected to sign up for individual roles and finalize materials. Gali has also noted growing comfort and camaraderie within the group.
Council-wide Themes
Across the board, teams are transitioning from ideation into refinement and testing. Dry runs, expert feedback, and shared documents are becoming standard practice. Fellows continue to serve as connectors, and motivators, helping their groups stay aligned with the larger vision.
With the November milestone on the horizon, teams are balancing ambition with feasibility, passion with planning. As the Jewish new year begins, the foundation for meaningful, long-term solutions is coming into view.
