The Countdown Begins

The Summer of Innovation kicks off one week from today with the 3rd Annual ROI Global Summit for Young Jewish Innovators here in Jerusalem.

The Summit, which runs from June 15-19, is an innovative project of the Center for Leadership Initiatives (CLI), in partnership with Taglit-Birthright Israel. CLI was founded by American Jewish philanthropist Lynn Schusterman.

The competition this year was fierce with over 400 applications received. And after long and detailed deliberations, 120 outstanding innovators from 28 countries were selected. A unique group of participants engaged in projects with the potential to change the face of the world!

Speaking about the participants Lynn Schusterman tells us,

“…each of them is an innovator in his or her field. The link between them is that they are all seeking to change the world and to contribute to a dynamic future for the Jewish people.”

The Summit program is divided into seven themed tracks, designed to allow for individuals to share best practices within the track most appropriate for their work: Service; Arts and Culture, Visions of Israel, Environmentalism, Jewish Content & Technology, Global Jewish Community, and Youth Programs.

According to Yoni Gordis, CLI’s Executive Director,

“The purpose of the gathering is to advance innovation in Jewish fields by enhancing and improving the management skills of ROI participants and to foster connections and collaborations among them. These young people are deeply connected to their local communities, but also care deeply about the land of Israel. Their fresh perspectives, innovation and enthusiasm all point to a vibrant future for the Jewish people.”

Rounding out the Summit experience, the participants will have a day of service at the Mevessaret Zion Absorption Center and enjoy some ‘down time’ in both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

So stay tuned as the Summer of Innovation premiers. eJewish Philanthropy will be on the spot at both the ROI Summit and the upcoming PresenTense Institute with all the doings. And as the summer progresses, we will introduce you to many of these new innovators and their individual projects.