Words from our Outgoing National Mazkira

As Young Judaea prepares to begin a new year, I want to share a few words about my experience in YJ and as the National Mazkira. 

I have been part of the YJ community since birth, as my mom was active in camps, year round programming, and Israel programs. My personal journey started in 2015 at Sprout Lake, where I fell in love with the values, people, and community of YJ. I continued through Sprout Lake until it was time for me to go to TY. At TY, I found love, energy, passion for Judaism, and leadership opportunities unlike anywhere else. Inspired by this experience, I joined YJ Teens in ninth grade, where I have spent the past four years. 

Being a part of YJ Teens has truly changed my life. I had the opportunity to grow as a leader and as a person. I discovered my passion for writing programs, organizing conventions, and leading my peers in various activities. I also found a community that truly valued my skills, personality, and presence. 

When I was elected as the National Mazkira in January, 2025, I had so many goals for the year. I was so excited to be in a position where I could make real positive changes and give back to the community that has given me so much. I am proud to say that in this position, I accomplished many of my goals. 

This year, the National Maz increased convention registration numbers drastically, holding a National Convention with over 130 teens, an 45% increase from the year prior. We planned the first ever Nationwide Shabbat, where over 20 Judaeans from across the country hosted Shabbat dinners for their friends and family, sponsored by YJ Teens. We organized a Young Judaea marching group in the Israel Day Parade, the first time marching independently. In May, we had an Altneu weekend at Tel Yehudah, where the outgoing and incoming National Maz collaborated and learned from one another. YJ Teens also saw the creation of multiple new Va’adot, or clubs, across the country. 

I put all of my energy into making these programs happen, and I could not have done it without the amazing team who I worked with all year. The four other National Maz members, Yael Friedman, Jesse Flumen, Addie Slater, and Ruth Glaser, all carried the passion and commitment required to accomplish our goals in YJ Teens. I want to especially thank Michal Abramoff, who directed our year of YJ Teens, and continues to make progress in the movement. I also want to share my deep appreciation for Amit Castel, our National Advisor this year. Amit was always there to support our Maz, and we could not have done it without him. 

While working at TY this past summer, I was approached by countless teens asking how they can bring YJ Teens programming to their communities. Seeing the passion in the next generation of Judaeans makes me very hopeful for the future. I am confident that the incoming National Maz will continue to improve Young Judaea. I am personally so excited to pass the torch to Hallie Liberman, the incoming National Mazkira, and cannot wait to see where the movement goes under her leadership. 

Thank you Young Judaea for giving me a lifelong community where I can truly be myself, a proud Jewish leader. I am forever grateful for the people I’ve met and opportunities I’ve had. I cannot wait to continue my YJ Journey on Year Course in just a few weeks, and for now, say goodbye to YJ Teens. 

– Natalie Pittman, National Mazkira 2025-2026