By DANIEL BLOCH, Executive Director, Cape SAJBD
Earlier this year, I applied for the prestigious International Nahum Goldmann Fellowship (NGF). I was accepted and in August joined the 34th cohort made up of Jewish individuals from more than ten countries. Aside from South Africa, there was representation from Canada, Mexico, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Germany, Panama, Israel, Argentina, Australia, Spain, Switzerland, Finland and Colombia.
The purpose of the international Nahum Goldmann Fellowship is to provide a constructive space for young leaders to test questions and assumptions, practise critical leadership skills, and learn about diversity and shared values across the Jewish world.
We spent an incredible week together at the Devon Valley Hotel in Stellenbosch. Even though it rained for the first few days, the overcast weather could not dampen our spirits. When the sun eventually shone, it highlighted breathtaking views of the Stellenbosch Winelands.
I have participated in programmes of this nature before. However, no two courses are the same and you can learn so much, especially if you are an active participant. There were 30 participants (Fellows) and about eight faculty members – those who led the discussions and presented on a variety of topics. The week-long programme included some intense and thought-provoking topics which really tested my thinking. Topics like Jewish identity, the role of Diaspora Jewry, and new philosophies of Zionism got my brain working overtime and I really enjoyed hearing views from so many diverse people.
There were also interesting and interactive sessions on culture, as well as learnings about Israeli music and films. During these times, whilst we did participate, it gave the brain a chance to recharge. For me, it was quite strange being a participant in this Fellowship in Cape Town, as opposed to giving a presentation. However, I felt I was suitably placed to provide unique insights into the local Jewish community. There were a number of fantastic and engaging team activities throughout the week and I got to know some amazing people who are all doing incredible work in their own communities.
What were my takeaways? I enjoy speaking to people, sharing thoughts and opinions, and then listening to their views and feedback. I did not always agree with everything everyone said. However, there was enough respect among us to provide one another with a platform for speaking openly and honestly. For me, the week in Stellenbosch reaffirmed that our Jewish way of life in Cape Town is very much protected and that the Jews of the Western Cape live in one of the safest places anywhere in the world. This was reaffirmed by the cohort as most of them had trepidations about coming to South Africa in fear of being arrested or verbally or physically abused for being Jewish. This was certainly not the case and they all enjoyed the Cape hospitality. It is uncomfortable to be a Jew – everywhere. However, Cape Town seems to be better than most places – and this validates the work that we do at the Cape SAJBD.
Would I recommend the Nahum Goldmann Fellowship? I would indeed. I would say that if you are a young leader in your community, or if you want to become more involved, then a programme like NGF, would be a perfect place to start. And the word ‘start’ is important as it doesn’t end there. As a past Fellow, I will now have access to future opportunities and engagement with my fellow participants. Thank you to Jenni, David, Sienna, Jonathan and the team for a sensational week.
Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies website: www.capesajbd.org, Instagram, and Facebook page.
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