Montreal – November 26, 2024 – Federation CJA is proud to announce that applications are now open for the Dalfen Teen Israel Leadership Initiative, also known as the Dalfen Fellowship, an inspiring program designed to foster leadership and advocacy for Israel among Montreal’s Jewish youth. Now entering its third year, this fellowship provides Jewish teens with a unique pathway to develop as leaders, advocates, and engaged community members.

The Dalfen Fellowship accepts up to 50 students from Secondary 3 through 5 (Grades 9 through 11) across Montreal, including Jewish day schools, private schools, and public schools. Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process that includes an interview, two letters of reference and a video testimony. Once accepted, students engage in weekend educational sessions throughout the year, culminating in a transformative summer trip to Israel with their choice of ten reputable trip providers.

“The Dalfen Fellowship represents an invaluable opportunity for young Jewish leaders to deepen their understanding of Israel, connect with Jewish history, and build lifelong connections within our community,” said Mindy Sarna Zobin, Manager of Content Development at Federation CJA. “By creating this space for Jewish teens from diverse backgrounds, we’re fostering a strong sense of Jewish peoplehood, identity, and purpose.”

Throughout the fellowship year, students will participate in a range of educational sessions, including interactive seminars on Jewish history, Israel advocacy, and global Jewish issues. The program will also offer Shabbat gatherings, guest speakers, and volunteer opportunities, building a well-rounded experience that strengthens students’ ties to their community and heritage.

“We believe that by investing in our teens today, we are investing in a strong and vibrant Jewish community for tomorrow,” said Yair Szlak, President and CEO of Federation CJA.

Tova Havis Rotheram had this to say about her daughter Abbey’s Dalfen Fellowship experience: “The program and trip have profoundly shaped Abbey's Jewish journey. The program introduced my daughter to inspiring influencers, gave her the opportunity to present in front of a group and helped her to build confidence and develop leadership skills,” Rotheram said. “The program taught her to advocate for herself and for the Jewish people, fostering a deeper connection to her identity. These experiences have been truly life-changing.”

The Dalfen Fellowship will conclude with a graduation ceremony attended by fellowship donors and community leaders, celebrating the students’ achievements and reinforcing their commitment to Jewish leadership.

Applications are open until December 12. More information is available at FederationCJA.org/en/GoTeenIsrael or by contacting 514-734-1419 or [email protected].

With parental ambassadors supporting outreach, the Dalfen Fellowship has gained a strong reputation among families, educators, and community leaders alike, making it one of the most sought-after programs for Montreal Jewish teens.

As Mindy Sarna Zobin summed up, “We’re building tomorrow’s Jewish leaders, equipping them with knowledge, pride, and a strong sense of Jewish identity. We encourage all eligible teens to apply and embark on this life-changing journey.”

Go Teen Israel has partnered with ten organizations including BBYO, Bnei Akiva, Diller, NCSY, Yahad/CSUQ, Camp B’nai Brith Montreal (CBB) and Harry Bronfman Y Country Camp (YCC).

For the full interview with Mindy Sarna Zobin listen to the next episode of the Federation CJA 360 Podcast, available on Apple Podcast, Spotify or on FederationCJA.org.

About Federation CJA

For over one hundred years, Federation CJA has been at the heart of the organized Jewish community in Montreal. In partnership with a vast network of agencies and organizations locally, nationally, and internationally, Federation CJA builds and sustains this community by providing leadership and by supporting the delivery of services and programs to care for the vulnerable and those in need, to ensure a bright Jewish future, to represent communal interests, and to positively affect issues in the wider society.

Media Contact:

Glenn J. Nashen
Director, Media Relations and Crisis Communications | Directeur, Relations avec les médias et communication de crise
Strategic Marketing and Communications | Marketing Stratégique et communications
FEDERATION CJA
1 Carré Cummings Square | 5151 Chemin de la Côte Ste-Catherine Road
Montréal, Québec  H3W 1M6
514-734-1327
[email protected]