StandWithUs Australia expands campus advocacy

StandWithUs Australia is strengthening its impact on university campuses by selecting its second cohort of Emerson Fellows and adding two dedicated Campus Coordinators.

This expansion marks a significant step in the organisation’s mission to combat antisemitism and promote education about Israel across Australian universities.

Ten university students from New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) have been chosen for the prestigious fellowship from a highly competitive pool of over 50 applicants. With this new group, StandWithUs now has more than 20 active Emerson Fellows across nine university campuses, fostering fact-based discourse and advocating against antisemitism.

“This new cohort of passionate and talented students demonstrates the growing demand for proactive leadership in addressing antisemitism and supporting Israel on campus,” said Michael Gencher, Executive Director of StandWithUs Australia. “We are thrilled to welcome these young leaders into our expanding community and provide them with the tools to create meaningful change.”

In response to its growing network, StandWithUs Australia has also appointed two Campus Coordinators—one based in Victoria and another in New South Wales—who will provide mentorship and support to students, including those in Canberra. These coordinators will play a crucial role in guiding Emerson Fellows, equipping them with strategic resources, and ensuring their advocacy efforts are impactful.

“Our new Campus Coordinators will work closely with the Fellows to provide hands-on guidance, ensuring they have the resources and confidence to challenge misinformation and foster constructive dialogue,” Gencher added.

Later this month, the new cohort will travel to Los Angeles for an intensive international training program. There, they will join Emerson Fellows from around the world in advanced advocacy training, leadership development, and network-building. Upon their return, they will embark on a 10-month leadership program focused on strengthening their campus presence, educating their peers, and developing their own skills as educators and advocates.

As antisemitism continues to escalate on university campuses, the expansion of the Emerson Fellowship program and the addition of Campus Coordinators reflect StandWithUs Australia’s commitment to addressing these challenges head-on. The organisation remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders to challenge misinformation, promote education, and stand in solidarity with their communities.

“Our Emerson Fellows are at the forefront of combating antisemitism and ensuring a well-informed, fact-based discourse thrives on Australian campuses,” Gencher emphasised. “With the right tools, mentorship, and determination, these young advocates will make a lasting impact.”