The annual Jewish National Fund (JNF)-USA Global Conference for Israel is the world’s largest gathering of Zionists outside of Israel. The multi-day event brings together community leaders, educators, donors, rabbis, students, among others in support of Israel and in celebration of the growing American Zionist community. On October 24, 2025, select high school students traveled with student life director Rabbi Arieh Bentolila to the Diplomat Hotel to attend the conference and serve as representatives of Scheck Hillel.

The event began with opening remarks from eminent JNF USA leaders, introducing the audience of hundreds to the organization’s ongoing work and impact. Throughout that hour and a half at the main stage, the audience heard from such speakers as JNF USA CEO Russell Robinson, Congressman Ritchie Torres of New York, released Hamas hostage Omer Shem Tov, and his parents, Shelly and Malki Shem Tov. Senior Liat Shechter shared that after praying for Omer Shem Tov’s safe return for two years, to “see him smiling on stage and singing was like seeing a miracle in real life. It was incredible and so, so special.”

Students then attended sessions related to Israel and social media, Middle Eastern geopolitics, modern Zionism, Christians in support of Israel, and more, and even roamed an expo spotlighting other Jewish and Israeli groups. Finally, the Hillel group joined other south Florida Jewish high school groups for an activity powered by the Alexander Muss High School in Israel. The activity, “If You Will It, Then What?”, explored how the students would approach the complexities of governing the ancient Jewish homeland in the modern day. Rabbi Bentolila, who coordinated the trip for the student delegation, emphasized the importance of student participation in the conference. He noted that the event allowed students to “explore how the Jewish world looks at Israel… [and] the beauty of Zionism,” also adding that interacting with other Jewish students from around south Florida is essential for students’ growth. He says that the exposure to such powerful and diverse voices from inside and out of the community will help shape the students, or as he refers to them, “the leaders of tomorrow.”