In August, I had the opportunity to attend an Israel and Diaspora leadership seminar in Tel Aviv. This trip combined volunteering in Israel as well as an opportunity to deepen my understanding of what it means to be a student leader in the diaspora, especially in the context of a post October 7th world.  

One of the highlights was connecting with Jewish peers from every corner of the world. There were participants from Australia, Bucharia and most interestingly for me – India! It was fascinating to learn about varied manifestations of Judaism and how each community’s unique geography and history have shaped their practices. Coming from a United Synagogue community and Leeds JSoc, my Jewish experience has been very much confined to the North West London bubble, with the most diversity coming from my Sephardi shul. Hearing perspectives from friends all over the world expanded my understanding of Judaism’s diversity. This experience has helped me embrace all forms of Judaism back in Leeds. 

The trip also deepened my connection with Israel in meaningful ways. We volunteered in a vineyard and with Magen David Adom, which felt like a small way to give back to the country that has sacrificed so much to us. Hearing first hand from the daughter of a hostage as well as a Magen David Adom first responder who worked on October the 7th left a profound impact on me. These stories and insights became part of the reflections I shared in October 7th commemoration events in Leeds, where I feel honoured to be a voice in the diaspora advocating for the hostages.   

This experience introduced me to the WUJS family. As I finish being JSoc President in the next few weeks, I look forward to developing my Jewish leadership in an international sphere. I am now a participant on the WUJS Impact Fellowship and will be attending WUJS Congress in December. I look forward to seeing where the rest of my international Jewish advocacy journey takes me!  

Emma Levy - UJS Leadership Fellow 2023/24