I stepped off the bus in Framingham, Massachusetts, hoping to find what I spend every day trying to build: real, meaningful Jewish community.

That’s what drew me to the M²: Institute for Experiential Jewish Education’s Kehillot Fellowship, which brings together Jewish professionals from Boston, Toronto, and Greater Washington to explore what it means to activate Jewish values in our work. As someone deeply rooted in relationship building and community outreach, I was excited for four days of learning, listening, and connection. And I left with exactly that, plus a deeper understanding of how shared values can transcend geography.

Through my role at The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, I’ve come to know the people, rhythms, and nuances of Jewish life in Northern Virginia. But this fellowship pushed me to zoom out. I met peers from Boston and Toronto, learned about their successes and challenges, and saw my own community reflected in theirs. It reminded me that while each Jewish community is distinct, we’re all asking similar questions about belonging, resilience, and what Jewish life can look like in the future.

We also had the chance to explore “Jewish Boston”—from historic landmarks to Lehrhaus, a Jewish tavern and house of learning. We heard from visionary local leaders, each imagining bold, diverse futures for their community. Their ideas differed, but their goal was shared: vibrant, inclusive Jewish life.

That collective vision fuels my own work in Northern Virginia. This experience reminded me that leadership isn’t just about what we build locally—it’s about learning from others, asking big questions, and grounding our work in enduring values.

Federation’s investment in my participation was intentional: developing leaders who can strengthen Jewish life today and reimagine it for tomorrow. I’m grateful for the opportunity—and even more energized to bring what I’ve learned back home.

What I learned in Boston is already helping build something special in Northern Virginia.