The theme of the Fellowship, Wrestling with Israel-Diaspora relationships, explored critical aspects of Jewish identity and connection to Israel.

Dr. Steven Bayme, Director, Department of Jewish Life, American Jewish Committee, New York, NY, USA

Local Jewish leaders also participated as faculty, contributing their insights to the program.

This NGF was envisioned, organized, and facilitated by a committee of four NGF alumni. The program challenged Fellows to grapple with significant questions, such as the interplay between Jewish identity, responsibility to Israel, and their roles as citizens of South Africa.

Key discussions included examining whether Jewish institutions genuinely represent the diverse voices within the Cape Town Jewish community. The topic of minority voices, often absent from organized Jewish life, sparked heated but respectful debate. Additionally, the role of Jewish education in fostering a deeper connection to Israel was a focal point, with a general consensus that greater knowledge of Jewish history and traditions strengthens one’s affinity for Israel as a Jewish state.

David Jacobson, an alumnus and one of the organizers, highlighted the value of the Fellowship stating: “The NGF gives a non-judgmental and open space for young Jewish voices to be heard by each other and within their communities—something vital in the South African Jewish communal context, which is experiencing increasing polarization along political and religious divides.”

In his closing remarks, Dr. Bayme observed “Passionate disagreement only strengthens the Jewish community.”