Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s newest Bernstein Leadership Group (BLG) cohort is making strides on their 18-month journey of growth, connection, and leadership development within Jewish Charlotte. Over the past few months, participants have begun laying essential groundwork for their time together, focusing on building relationships, identifying individual strengths, and preparing to dive deeper into their leadership potential.
In March, the group gathered for “Kehilah Kedosha—Building a Sacred Community,” where they explored themes of Jewish identity, leadership, and the power of community. This opening session, led by Federation leaders, set the tone for a year of reflection and connection. It emphasized that leadership begins with personal growth and a commitment to nurturing and strengthening the community around them.
In their second session, participants turned inward during a StrengthsFinder workshop led by Karen Blankenship of Duke Energy. By identifying and understanding their individual talents, the cohort is learning how to leverage their unique abilities, both personally and collectively. The exercise challenged each member to recognize that true leadership begins with knowing who you are and understanding how to lift others alongside you.
The cohort is now preparing for one of the most transformative milestones of the program: the Shabbaton retreat. Over three days, participants will explore what it means to lead through a Jewish lens, drawing from ancient texts, modern stories, and their own lived experiences. Sessions will include interactive conversations about Jewish identity; leadership models rooted in figures like Moses, Miriam, and Nachshon; and respectful dialogue around complex topics such as Israel. Rituals like Shabbat candle lighting, Havdalah, and communal meals will create space for spiritual reflection and shared joy. By the end of the weekend, participants will leave with a renewed sense of purpose, stronger ties to their cohort, and deeper insight into their Jewish journeys.
Megan Harkavy, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s director of education and engagement, described the retreat as “an opportunity not just for reflection and learning, but also for strengthening the bonds that will carry them through the rest of the program and beyond.”
As the cohort continues to learn, grow, and lead, their journey reflects the heart of Federation’s and BLG’s mission: preparing the next generation of Jewish leaders, rooted in identity, purpose, and a commitment to building a vibrant and resilient community. Stay tuned for more updates as these rising leaders take their next steps!