Teen Spotlight: Harry Pressman

“If you have been given an opportunity to get involved, always take it”

Harry’s closest Jewish friends were made through Jewish youth groups, where he began to learn more about himself and what Judaism meant to him. Harry became involved in NFTY, a movement aimed at building strong Jewish communities through teen engagement, where he immediately felt welcomed at his first event, enjoyed the activities and the opportunity to spend time with his friends, while sparking his passion for Jewish community.

In grade seven, Harry was introduced to FEISTEY, an extension of NFTY, and joined its board in grade nine, where he had the opportunity to plan his own programs. Now, as Canadian Membership Vice President of NFTY, Harry, continues to be an essential asset to Jewish youth organizations across Canada and the United States.

The COVID-19 pandemic has only made Harry’s passion for Jewish community grow stronger, has encouraged him to make a change and be more involved in community program planning. Being in lockdown forced Harry out of his comfort zone and encouraged him to reach out to people and learn how to become a good leader and friend who is influential in his community.

Harry’s experience with NFTY has inspired him to give others the same positive experience that he had during his time with the youth organization, and he hopes to continue his involvement in Jewish life while in university.

To learn more about how to get involved with NFTY, click here: https://nfty.org/

Inspired by Harry’s story and want to get more involved in synagogue youth movements?

Here are a couple ways you can get started!

  1. Check out your synagogue’s website to learn about their affiliated youth movement(s)
  2. Connect with your rabbi or synagogue professional to learn more about how you can get involved

 

To nominate a teen for our Teen Spotlight section in a future newsletter, please email: 
Shoshana Newman, Teen Engagement & Philanthropy Manager