Faces of the future: Honouring our Thirty Under 30 and Eighteen Under 18

The young leaders shaping Anglo-Jewry were honoured this week at a reception celebrating the Jewish News’ Thirty Under 30 and Eighteen Under 18 lists.

The initiative, in partnership with the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC), celebrated rising stars from across the community as well as figures making waves in the wider world of politics, media and the arts.

Number one on the 30 Under list, Arieh Miller, was presented with a trophy at JW3 in front of many of those on the two lists and members of the judging panel for the project, which culminated with the publication of profiles of all those featured earlier this year.

Addressing the gathering, JLC chief executive Simon Johnson said it was fitting to hold the event  during Chanukah, which celebrates the Maccabees taking the initiative to fight back against the Greeks to preserve Jewish life.

“Our 48 leaders did not have to fight to make a difference. But, in their own way, they have seized the initiative and stepped forward to help maintain a vibrant and vital Jewish life in the UK.

READ MORE: 

• Voice of the Jewish News: Our movers and shapers!
• It’s the final countdown! Thirty Under 30 top 10 
• Thirty Under 30: The Countdown Continues… 20-11 
• Thirty Under 30: The community’s top young talent 30-21
• Eighteen Under 18: We reveal the young Jewish leaders on the rise!

“Whether through choosing to work in the community, or volunteering or serving in a lay capacity, you are all showing the vision, the drive, the determination and the commitment, which has the potential to benefit our community for many years to come.”

As with the newspaper’s Forty Under 40 and Aliyah countdowns, the project was chaired by Andrew Gilbert, who said: “While lists are fun, they also tell a story and each one is special. For many people appearing, it was the first time they have been recognised by the Jewish community and I’m sure it won’t be the last.”

Laura Janner-Klausner, Senior Rabbi to Reform Judaism, praised the impact of Jewish News and spoke about leadership.

“Jewish News’ Thirty Under 30 points to a bright future for Jews in Britain. Diverse, driven and dedicated, all those included are a credit to our community.”

Trainee rabbi Deborah Blausten, who also features prominently on the list, lit the candles for the seventh night of Chanukah.

Justin Cohen, news editor of Jewish News, said: “It was fitting to hold this celebration at JW3, which seeks to increase the volume and quality of conversation in the Jewish community.

“All those on these lists do just that, and we are delighted to have this opportunity to shine a light on their incredible efforts.”