Highlights from EUJS Summer U 2024 - World Jewish Congress

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Highlights from EUJS Summer U 2024

From July 28 to August 4, 2024, the European Union of Jewish Students (EUJS) hosted its annual Summer U event, bringing together young Jewish leaders from across Europe for a week of learning, networking, and cultural exchange. This year’s event, held in Greece, featured a strong presence from WJC NextGen, with 30 members participating. WJC is proud to support and partner with Summer U, supporting its mission to empower young Jewish leaders.

The program kicked off with a series of high-impact sessions. Yoni Hammerman, WJC NextGen Director, facilitated a crucial student consultation as part of the WJC Working Group on Combating Antisemitism. This session provided a platform for European Jewish students to voice their concerns and ideas directly to WJC leadership.

Emily Bowman, a WJC European Affairs Assistant, led two discussions. Her "Election Extravaganza: The Year of Votes" session prepared attendees for the upcoming EU elections. Bowman also led a "Hungary Takes the Helm: EU Edition” session, which offered insights into Hungary's EU Council presidency and its potential impact on European Jewry.

Dr. Leon Saltiel, WJC's Director of Diplomacy, delivered a compelling presentation titled “The Diplomatic Work after 7 October: Challenges and Opportunities to Promote a Jewish Agenda.” This session explored the evolving landscape of Jewish advocacy in the wake of recent events.

Máté Holler, Elevate Coordinator, and Yoni Hammerman co-led an interactive workshop on "Navigating Conflict and the Art of Dealing with It," equipping participants with valuable skills for addressing challenging situations within their communities and beyond.

A highlight of the event was the gala dinner, where WJC NextGen presented awards to outstanding young Jewish leaders. Dr. Leon Saltiel awarded JD Academy Member Natacha Hubelé of the French Union of Jewish Students (UEJF) as Inspiring Activist of the Year. Additionally, the Czech Union of Jewish Students (CUZM), led by JD Academy Member Emma Günsberger, was honored as Union of the Year for their exceptional contributions to Jewish student life.

Beyond the WJC-led sessions, Summer U offered a diverse program including political advocacy workshops, leadership training, and Jewish learning experiences. Participants left with new skills, expanded networks, and a renewed sense of purpose in their roles as young Jewish leaders in Europe.