Shalom Austin, IAC, Israeli Scouts (Tzufim) and BBYO collaborate for a special teen event during Israel’s Yom Hazikron and Yom HaAtzmaut. Credit: Maayan Oved

By Maayan Oved, IAC Austin Program Manager

In May, when the community commemorated Israel’s Yom Hazikron and celebrated Israel’s Yom HaAtzmaut, Shalom Austin, IAC, Israeli Scouts (Tzufim) and BBYO collaborated for a special teen event as well.  

The organizations gathered Jewish teens from the community for an important session to discuss and learn about antisemitism in schools and campuses across the U.S. Participants explored various antisemitic scenarios and case studies, engaging in meaningful conversations. The session was moderated by Shalom Austin Senior Israel Educator Michal Ilai, who offered valuable insights.

Additionally, two combat IDF soldiers, who came directly from Israel, shared their personal experiences from their service, the war, and life in Israel, giving the teens a unique opportunity to connect with them and ask them important questions. The event concluded with an engaging open discussion, making it an impactful experience for all involved. The feedback received from the teens and their parents was very positive, emphasizing how meaningful it was for them. The organizations are planning more collaborations like this one in the next few months.