Jewish Care Builds New Generation of Leaders
Jewish Care Victoria’s inaugural Board Foundations program, ‘Yesod’ culminated with a graduation ceremony at which 10 young Jewish professionals completed the program.
Yesod (Hebrew for ‘foundations’) is a 10-month program, which involves participants aged 27-40 gaining a solid understanding of the professional duties and responsibilities of not-for-profit board directors. Jewish Care partnered with the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AIDCD) to run the initiative, which included interactive workshops with key note speakers, firsthand experience with Jewish Care’s sub-committee and board directors; and one-on-one mentoring opportunities for participants and board directors – matched according to their interests and skills.
Participants learnt about governance best practice of board leadership. Key note speakers included James Ostroburski, Nora Scheinkestel and Carol Schwartz.
Jewish Care Next Generation Manager Emma Boyar explained why the Yesod program was introduced: “Yesod demonstrates Jewish Care’s commitment to actively engaging a new generation of advocates across the organisation. If we are building a sustainable community for the future, the future needs to involve all levels of leadership.”
Jewish Care CEO Bill Appleby said: “When young people’s opinions are sought and valued in decision making, it’s not just the organisation that benefits. A greater understanding and respect is developed, improved confidence is generated through the learning of new skills and a stronger sense of belonging is created. These experiences have the potential to positively impact on the entire community, creating a strong, cohesive and connected community.”
“Engaging emerging community leaders in the foundations of for-purpose board governance through the Yesod program epitomises Jewish Care’s progressive approach to meeting the changing needs of our community. I feel privileged to have participated in this innovative program and have only gained from my experience,” Yesod participant, Sasha Kliger explained.
Another participant, Eyal Genende said: “The Yesod program is an insightful, organised opportunity for any community-minded leader looking to gain a greater appreciation of the living operation of a not-for-profit board.”
The graduation ceremony took place on 3 November 2016.
Applications are now open for Jewish Care’s 2017 Yesod Program. To apply, contact Next Generation Manager, Emma Boyar on eboyar@jewishcare.org.au, 8517 5933. Applications close on 2 December 2016.
