From January 11–13, WJC NextGen, the World Zionist Organization in North America, and WZO’s Zionist Enterprises Department convened 15 NextGen members from across North America in Denver, Colorado for the inaugural Zionist Salons Training seminar.
The three-day initiative launched a new training model designed to equip emerging Jewish community leaders with the tools to navigate complex conversations around Zionism, identity, and Israel in a post-October 7 world. Through narrative development workshops, seminars on contemporary Zionism, historical literacy sessions, facilitation practice, and hands-on simulations, participants explored Israeli society, peoplehood, and the evolving debates shaping the Jewish world today. The seminar emphasized values-driven dialogue and prepared participants to lead thoughtful and meaningful conversations within their home communities.
Participants also engaged with local Jewish leaders who are shaping Colorado’s communal landscape. Renée Rockford, President & CEO of JewishColorado, welcomed the group and provided insights into Denver’s Jewish community and how it has evolved since October 7. An open conversation with Brandon Rattiner, Senior Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), and Kevin Farrington, Regional Security Advisor with the Secure Community Network, explored strategies for community safety and coalition-building.
The group also visited the teenage home of Golda Meir, where they heard from Lena Fishman, Executive Director of the Golda Meir House Museum, about Golda’s early life. Participants toured the house where Meir formed her political worldview, deepened her Zionist activism, and ultimately made the decision to emigrate to Israel.