Z3@Austin Conference 2026 has been postponed.
We working to finalize a new date – stay tuned for updates.
What is the Z3 Conference?
The Z3 Conference brings Jews from across the political and religious spectrum together to dialogue about Israel, Zionism, the diaspora, identity, and the future of Jewish life. It’s a gathering where unity is found by working together through challenging discourse, not by avoiding it.
Z3 Project is an initiative of the Oshman Family JCC. Z3 is a registered trademark.
What is Z3@AUSTIN?
Z3@Austin brings the spirit of the national Z3 Conference to our community.
Built by Shalom Austin and our community partners, this event reflects the voices, questions, and realities of Jewish life in and around Austin.
Together, we’re creating a space for bold conversation, honest listening, and staying in the room when it’s difficult.
Date
Z3@Austin: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Location
Dell JCC
UNITY, NOT UNIFORMITY
The Z3 Project aims to honor our differences while working for the oneness of the Jewish People.
ENGAGING AS EQUAL PARTNERS
The Z3 Project brings together Israelis and Diaspora Jews to build our common future.
DIVERSITY OF VOICES
The Z3 Project convenes Zionists of differing backgrounds and perspectives across the political and religious spectrum
Z3@AUSTIN 2026 KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Z3@AUSTIN 2026 FEATURED SPEAKERS
Omri Bezalel
Filmmaker, Novelist, Former Israeli Navy SEAL
Dr. Noga Cohavi
Jewish Educator
Dr. Craig Considine
Senior Lecturer in Sociology, Rice University
Yakir Englander
Senior Director of IAC Gvanim and Leadership Education
David Hazony
Director of the Z3 Institute
Hayden Karnes
Junior, Oral Roberts University
Andrew Keene
Founder, ESEK
SUNDAY, APRIL 19 BREAK OUT SESSIONS
Break Out Sessions 1 (12:30 – 1:45 PM)
The Inspiring Israeli-Druze Patriotism in Times of War | AMBASSADOR REDA MONSOUR
The Inspiring Israeli-Druze Patriotism in Times of War | AMBASSADOR REDA MONSOUR
Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7th galvanized Israeli societies in many different ways.
The mobilization of the Druze society was not surprising but overwhelming. For the first time in Israel’s history, the bravery and dedication of Druze men and women were noticed by every household in the country.
Ambassador Mansour will share the story of The Inspiring Israeli-Druze Patriotism in Times of war.
The Tzomet Game: Strategic War Gaming for the Jewish Future | Barak Sella & Phil Siegal
The Tzomet Game: Strategic War Gaming for the Jewish Future | Barak Sella & Phil Siegal
In this interactive session, we will explore how Jewish communities can move from reactive crisis management to proactive strategic thinking about the future. The Tzomet Game is a scenario-based “war game” designed for Jewish communal leaders. We will examine multiple possible futures for American Jewry in 2050 and the key decisions that could shape them. Participants will engage with major trends, including antisemitism, geopolitics, demography, technology, and institutional change, and leave with practical tools to think more strategically about their own communities.
How To Win On The Internet As A Jew | RABBI MOREDECHAI LIGHTSTONE
How to Win On The Internet As A Jew | Rabbi Moredechai Lightstone
The Internet is the global town square. It’s where we learn, share, and socialize. Recently, however, it has felt increasingly hostile to Jews online. Is there a way to confront the negativity and outshine the darkness?
Exploration of Gateways | Dr. Noga Cohavi
Exploration of Gateways | Dr. Noga Cohavi
In this workshop, we will explore different paths leading to our common ground, come across stories from different corners of the Jewish world, and articulate enduring understandings.
Our Communities Are Waiting for Hope to Arrive. It Won't. We Have to Build It | YAKIR ENGLANDER
Our Communities Are Waiting for Hope to Arrive. It Won’t. We Have to Build It | YAKIR ENGLANDER
Since October 7th, our communities have been yearning for hope — and for a new covenant with each other. In this session, we dive into the architecture of Tikvah as Judaism understands it, through serious engagement with Jewish and Israeli texts. We then turn that learning into dialogue: an honest, intellectual conversation among participants about the concrete steps we — as community members and leaders — must take to build hope now, together.
Amazing Allies: Standing Up For Our Shared Values and Common Destiny | DR. CRAIG CONSIDINE & HAYDEN KARNES
Amazing Allies: Standing Up For Our Shared Values and Common Destiny | DR. CRAIG CONSIDINE & HAYDEN KARNES
Join us for a powerful conversation from the frontlines of today’s college campuses with faculty and students beyond the Jewish faith who experienced Israel for the first time with Jewish National Fund – USA. Hear how their experiences shape the discourse on campus and cultivate informed, values‑based allies for Israel, inspiring the next generation of leaders.
*TEEN TRACK* Beyond Conflict: Connecting to Israel through Innovation and Entrepreneurship | ANDREW KEENE
Beyond Conflict: Connecting to Israel through Innovation and Entrepreneurship | Andrew Keene
This breakout session is designed for teens only.
This interactive workshop invites teens to explore their personal connection to Israel through the lens of entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience. Using ESEK’s idea that resilience is where innovation meets tradition, participants will examine how Israelis respond to challenge by creating, building, and reimagining.
Through discussion and the use of David Cards, the workshop offers a positive and meaningful framework for engaging with Israel beyond the headlines and beyond conflict. Israel becomes a case study in how innovation can grow out of pressure, uncertainty, and hope, and how entrepreneurship can be both a response to hardship and a source of strength, identity, and connection.
Break Out Sessions 2 (2:00 – 3:15 PM)
The Tzomet Game: Strategic War Gaming for the Jewish Future | Barak Sella & Phil Siegal
The Tzomet Game: Strategic War Gaming for the Jewish Future | Barak Sella & Phil Siegal
In this interactive session, we will explore how Jewish communities can move from reactive crisis management to proactive strategic thinking about the future. The Tzomet Game is a scenario-based “war game” designed for Jewish communal leaders. We will examine multiple possible futures for American Jewry in 2050 and the key decisions that could shape them. Participants will engage with major trends, including antisemitism, geopolitics, demography, technology, and institutional change, and leave with practical tools to think more strategically about their own communities.
Storytelling as Bridge-Building: Making the Israeli Experience Accessible Through Art | OMRI BEZALEL
Storytelling as Bridge-Building: Making the Israeli Experience Accessible Through Art | Omri Bezalel
How do we create dialogue about Israel when nuanced conversation has all but disappeared? Former Israeli Navy SEAL and writer/filmmaker Omri Bezalel shares his approach to making the Israeli experience accessible to audiences outside of Israel—both Jews and non-Jews—through honest, character-driven storytelling.
Drawing from his novel Silent Waters and his film LISTEN, Omri demonstrates how using universal emotions and storytelling techniques can translate uniquely Israeli realities into relatable human experiences. Through readings from his novel and clips from his film, he shows how art can bypass ideological defenses and create space for genuine engagement, even in hostile environments.
This interactive session explores practical techniques for bridge-building through storytelling and offers proof that transformation is possible.
Negotiating Views | DR. NOGA COHAVI
Negotiating Views | Dr. Noga Cohavi
In this workshop, we will discuss resources of Jewish wisdom, experience the benefit of “chavruta with a twist,” and reflect on contemporary issues in Israel-Diaspora interactions.
Israel's Backbone - Its Civil Society | IDO BENVENISTI
Israel’s Backbone – Its Civil Society | Ido Benvenisti
Israel’s civil society can help us understand Israel’s dynamic third sector and its tremendous response in the aftermath of October 7th. This session focuses on the evolution of non-profits, volunteerism, and social entrepreneurship as crucial drivers of Israel’s national identity, welfare, and innovation.
Inside the Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox) World: The Debates That Will Decide Israel's Future | DR. YAKIR ENGLANDER
Inside the Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox) World: The Debates That Will Decide Israel’s Future | DR. YAKIR ENGLANDER
Israel cannot survive without resolving this. And Haredi society cannot survive without changing. October 7th opened a window — and it won’t stay open long.
In this session, we go inside the internal Haredi debates most people never hear: on army service, sexuality, modernity, and what belonging to the Jewish state truly means. Dr. Englander grew up Haredi, left that world with love — and has never stopped actively partnering with Haredi organizations working to create change from within. Come hear the conversation that cannot wait.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does Z3@Austin registration cost? What's included in the fee?
- General Admission | $54
- High School/College Student | Free
- Sponsor a Student | $54
Lunch is included with all ticket purchases.
When is the deadline to register?
The deadline to register for Z3@Austin is Wednesday, April 15, at 12:00 PM.
Do I HAVE to be a dell JCC member to register?
No! All members of the greater Austin community are welcome to attend. Registration is required.
What is the conference schedule?
Sunday, February 23 | Z3 Conference
- Welcome: 10:00 AM
- Opening Plenary: 10:10 AM
- Lunch: 11:30 AM
- Breakout Sessions: 12:30 PM
- Closing: 2:30 PM
More detailed schedule coming soon!
why should my teen come to z3@austin?
We are incredibly excited for teens to have the opportunity to come to Z3@Austin. During the conference, there will be a special teen-only session, where your teens will be encouraged to discuss and dive deeper into their connection to Israel. There will also be a service project component where teens can receive community service hours. They will be introduced to other teens from across greater Austin and will become part of the larger community!
What is the dress code?
The dress code for Z3@Austin is conference/business comfortable.
What do I need to bring?
All you need to bring is your favorite water bottle, a light jacket/sweater, and an open mind!
are meals provided?
- Lunch is included with your Z3@Austin registration!
- Shevet Cafe and the Stephanie & Jeff Miller Family JCafe is always open with snacks, coffee, and various drinks for purchase as well.
what will security be like?
We will be following the Dell JCC Campus Security Policy and Procedures. Security will be on-site. Registration is required to attend. All bags are subject to search.
Z3@Austin Code of Conduct
Our code of conduct policies are set forth for the security and safety of staff, members and guests. All members and guests should abide by these guidelines at all times. Individuals or groups refusing to abide by the campus conduct policy may face disciplinary action, including the revocation of membership or campus privileges.
The Dell Jewish Community Campus is private property. The following activities are prohibited anywhere on the Dell Jewish Community Campus:
- Any behavior that endangers the life, safety, or health of others
- Smoking of all types, including vaping and the use of electronic cigarettes
- Disrupting or interfering with normal campus operations or with the production, viewing, or enjoyment of any scheduled or approved campus event, program, service, or activity
- Disrupting, interfering, or blocking the flow of pedestrian or vehicle traffic without prior approval
- Using any electric, electronic, or mechanical device to amplify sound without prior approval
- The distribution of flyers, leaflets, booklets, hand-bills, or other literature without prior approval
- Carrying, holding, posting, hanging, or otherwise displaying signage, banners, posters, flags, exhibitions, and other forms of advertisement without approval
- Using offensive, vulgar, indecent, or abusive language in a public space
- Abusing or harassing others, or engaging in behaviors that are hostile, menacing, antagonizing, or threatening
- Using remotely controlled airplanes, drones, helicopters, gliders, or other unmanned aerial vehicle without approval
- Professional or commercial photography/videography anywhere on campus without approval
As a member or guest, you are expected to comply with any reasonable request from a staff person. You are expected to comply with that request in a respectful manner. If you have a concern regarding the request, a formal complaint may be filed at the Welcome Desk in the Sports and Fitness Lobby to be reviewed by the appropriate party. These forms are available at the Welcome Desk.
All members and guests should notify a staff person immediately upon witnessing inappropriate behavior by another member or guest.
Consumption of alcohol during official campus functions should be in moderation. Public intoxication is not acceptable on campus and violators will be removed from the property immediately and membership may be revoked based on staff or board recommendation.
All drivers should behave in a responsible and courteous manner. Texas traffic laws should be adhered to on campus. This includes limiting speed on campus to 10 miles per hour. A violation of this rule may cause termination of membership or access to campus. In addition, handicapped parking is provided strictly for those with appropriate tags. Failure to abide by this guideline may result in towing at the owner’s expense.
Pursuant to Section 30.07, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with an openly-carried handgun), a person licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government may not enter this property, the Dell Jewish Community Campus, with a handgun that is carried openly.
It was such a heartening way on engaging about Israel – with a group of people with diverse backgrounds and connections to Israel. Also, loved the connection with the Shalom Austin community and people in Austin who care enough about Israel to self-select to attend the conference.
Coming with no expectations for the day, except to learn all about Z3 and enjoy the community, I received so much increased knowledge and appreciation for our Jewish community.
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