An Aussie in Chicago
Sharni Briner, the Melbourne Coordinator for Diller Teen Fellows, attended a gathering in Chicago representing the Australian Jewish community.
International Diller Teen Fellows Coordinators in front of The Art Institute of Chicago.
A dynamic convergence of Jewish professionals took centre stage. The Diller Teen Fellows conference coincided with FedPro and Ignite, two of the largest American Jewish professional convenings. This convergence not only created a bustling hub of Jewish professionals but also fostered a distinctive sense of solidarity, hope and strength amid the current challenging times.
The conference was a vital link, connecting our Australian Program Coordinator with counterparts from five other countries. Given the current conflict, unfortunately, the Israeli delegates, who make up half of the Diller team, could not attend. However, all attendees felt their support of the meeting. A message of support was shared from Diller Teen Fellows Senior Director Hadas Nir, who said: “It is important to continue Jewish professional development in the diaspora during times of war.”
The focal points of the conference included sessions about leadership during times of crisis, Jewish teen education, and support and advocacy for Israel. Reflecting on the experience, Sharni remarked: “The opportunity to unite, exchange insights with peers, and learn from industry professionals, including those from the iCentre and Blue Dove Foundation, was a profoundly meaningful and impactful experience. I eagerly anticipate applying my newly developed professional skills and some new concepts to benefit the Australian Jewish teen community.”
