GJ Prizes: Celebrating Collaboration. Sparking New Connections

Do you know of a collaboration happening between members of the Global Jewry network? Apply for yourself or nominate someone for GJ Prizes, an initiative from Global Jewry that celebrates cooperation and awards partnerships new and old. Visit https://globaljewry.org/prizes/ to submit your application today.

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TL;DR: This week, we reflect on the relief and gratitude surrounding the hostages’ return and the fragile cease-fire, a powerful reminder of what unity and shared purpose can achieve. As the community moves from anguish to renewal, symbolized by Simchat Torah and the return to Bereshit, Global Jewry calls for continued collaboration, compassion, and commitment to collective strength. We invite participation in upcoming Round Tables, Master Classes, and collaboration prizes, all aimed at deepening connections, learning from one another, and building a more united Jewish future grounded in care, respect, and shared values.

This week’s Global Jewry Connections begins with profound gratitude and relief that the living hostages have returned home and the fragile cease-fire is holding. The joy of seeing families reunited — after so much anguish and uncertainty — is a reminder of what we can achieve together as a global Jewish community when we channel our energy, our prayers, and our resources toward shared purpose.

We also want to commend all those in our network and beyond who have worked tirelessly — through advocacy, prayer, and solidarity — to rescue those who returned alive. The dedication and unity displayed across Jewish communities around the world reflect the deepest values of our people: that every life matters, and that our strength lies in caring for one another. Of course, we must not rest until all of the fallen hostages have been returned as well.

Last week, within hours of the release of the hostages, we celebrated Simchat Torah. We completed the annual cycle of reading the Torah and immediately returned to Bereshit — Genesis — a reminder of fresh beginnings, continuity, and renewal. This rhythm of endings and beginnings resonates with our current moment: a time of relief and celebration, but also one that calls for renewed attention, collaboration, and commitment to doing things right.

At the same time, we know the world around us is shifting rapidly. Every day brings new developments, new emotions, and new challenges. In this dynamic moment, we believe the best way forward is to stay connected, stay grounded in our values, and keep building together. Just as the Torah teaches us to return to our roots, to learn from our past while creating the future, we too must align our efforts with clarity, purpose, and care.

That’s why Global Jewry will continue to focus on collaboration — identifying, celebrating, and supporting partnerships that strengthen the Jewish world. We invite those with specific expertise or lived experience to help us plan a new series of Round Tables and Master Classes. These conversations will allow us to learn from one another, explore shared challenges, and align our efforts across sectors, countries, and perspectives. If you or your organization would like to initiate or co-host a session, we welcome your ideas and energy. We also hope you will take the time to submit a nomination or application for one of our two prizes for outstanding collaborations, an initiative that will spotlight projects that model what’s possible when we work across boundaries and differences in the service of something greater.

Finally, as we continue to navigate difficult global and communal moments — including those that touch on the complex relationship between Israel and the Diaspora — let us remember to speak with care and assume good intentions. The Jewish world is strongest when we treat one another as partners in a shared destiny, even when we see things differently. And while the Government of Israel is not a Global Jewry partner, we hope it – as the nation that represents and inspires Jews everywhere – and its officials will always choose to act in accordance with the same values of communication, cooperation, and mutual respect that guide our work.

Together, we can ensure that this season of relief and renewal — in the spirit of new beginnings, Simchat Torah and the return to Bereshit — becomes a foundation for deeper understanding, creative collaboration, and a more connected Jewish future.

Shavua tov and may this be the week all of the fallen hostages return home,

Founder, Global Jewry

Have an achievement (e.g. publications, awards, appearances, etc) you would like highlighted in a future GJ Connections? Let us know by emailing sandy@globaljewry.org.

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