Diaspora finds its voice in London

UJIA hosts Kolenu conference bringing together communities from across the globe

Over 50 of the top young Jewish leaders from across the world made their voices heard at the first ever gathering of its kind in London (Friday 21-Tuesday 25 January). The Kolenu Global Forum 2011 (Hebrew for 'our voice') brought together participants from the UK, North America, Australia, South Africa, Holland and Israel to tackle the 'big issues' facing their communities. The conference was hosted by UJIA working with international partners, the Jewish Federations of North America, Keren Hayesod and UIA Federations Canada.

Participants from the world's largest Jewish communities converged in London to brainstorm, network and address the current and upcoming challenges and needs of their communities. Highlights included a tour of the House of Lords with Lord Janner, seminars with figures such as UJIA chairman, Mick Davis, and Ha'aretz journalist, Aluf Benn, as well as an evening at Guy Ritchie's Punchbowl pub in Mayfair.

Anthony Abrams, Chair, Young UJIA Patrons, commented:

"It was inspiring to see so many talented young leaders from across the globe converge on the Kolenu Global Forum to tackle the big issues facing our Diaspora communities. The UK is home to one of the most vibrant Jewish communities in the world and Young UJIA is delighted to have been involved in the conference and enable people from across the world to learn about Jewish life here - and for us to learn from them."

You can see more pictures from Kolenu in our online gallery.