AJC Atlanta ACCESS Leadership Fellowship (ALEF)
Information and Application
October 2025 - April 2026
What is ALEF?
American Jewish Committee (AJC) ACCESS Leadership Fellowship (ALEF) is a cohort-based advocacy training program that aims to brings together a talented group of young Jewish leaders to deepen their understandings of antisemitism, develop leadership skills, and join a global community of emerging leaders advocating on behalf of the Jewish people. Participants will learn from AJC experts how to navigate political, diplomatic, and media spaces. In a post October 7 world, ALEF convenes emerging leaders looking to make an impact.
ALEF Session Topics will cover:
- Understanding the history of antisemitism and how it manifests today
- Navigating personal and professional networks in a post 10/7 world
- Advocacy 101: How to build relationships and tell stories with impact
- ACCESS Global: Connecting with young Jewish leaders around the world
- Israel and the Diaspora: Asking the tough questions
- Friendships and Partnerships: Building bridges with other communities
- Off-the-record meetings with legislators and diplomats
- Social opportunities including happy hours, Shabbat dinners, and more!
What is the program timeline for ALEF?
ALEF participants are expected to attend all ALEF session, held monthly on the dates listed below. Unless otherwise noted, ALEF sessions will take place from 7-8:30 p.m., with dinner served at 6:30 p.m. The location will be announced to participants upon acceptance.
Tuesday, October 21: Welcome Social
Thursday, November 20: Understanding the Atlanta Jewish Community & Antisemitism Training
Thursday, December 4: Connecting with ACCESS Global
Friday, January 30: ALEF attends AJC’s Atlanta 4th Annual Legislature and Judiciary Shabbat
Monday, February 9: AJC’s Work: Intro to Advocacy
Wednesday, March 4: AJC Advocacy Training and Practice
Wednesday, April 15: Dinner with a Diplomat
Sunday, May 31-June 2: AJC’s Global Forum in Washington D.C. (ALEF Alumni will be invited to attend at a discounted rate)
After ALEF
Alumni will be invited to continue growing in their involvement with ACCESS Global with opportunities for local and global leadership positions, ACCESS Marshall Society informational briefings, and community socials and gatherings.
Who is eligible to participate?
Young professionals aged 22-40 who are seeking to connect with like-minded peers, learn from experts in the field, and engage in real hands-on advocacy work around issues of importance to the Jewish community. Participants will be required to support the AJC annual campaign with a minimum ACCESS Marshall Society gift of $625. All gifts go to fund AJC’s critical work advocating on behalf of the Jewish people.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Applications are due Friday, September 12.
Questions? Please contact Camellia Heart-Katz at [email protected]
