The Jewish Community Council of Victoria’s (JCCV) 86th Annual General Meeting will recognise two remarkable community contributors.

Receiving the General Sir John Monash Award for outstanding commitment to the Jewish community is Rabbi Yaakov Glasman AM. Rabbi Glasman has been a pillar of the Jewish and wider Victorian community for over 25 years. Rabbi Glasman’s contributions span numerous areas. He has served in numerous roles on state and federal rabbinical councils, and delivered hundreds of talks to enrich the community with his knowledge and inclusive way of thinking. He is also a key leader in interfaith dialogue and a builder of social cohesion. His work has had a profound impact on communal attitudes towards vulnerable groups, and he continues to make outstanding contributions to the community. Rabbi Glasman’s support was instrumental in the election of the first female President of the St Kilda Hebrew Congregation, highlighting his commitment to positive social change.

“Rabbi Glasman is a leading light of our community. He heads up one of our oldest congregations with a nod to the past but a thoroughly modern outlook. He brings energy and sensitivity to everything he does,” Naomi Levin, CEO Of the JCCV, said.

“I have particular knowledge of the challenging but vitally important role that Rabbi Glasman has played in building relationships between the Jewish community and other communities. This work is not always easy, but there is no one better suited to it than Rabbi Glasman.”

The Sylvia Gelman Young Leader Award will this year go to Leo* (name has been changed for security reasons), a dedicated CSG volunteer. Leo, who received the Community Security Group (CSG) emerging Leader award in 2023, has consistently demonstrated remarkable leadership and has successfully led a team of 30 volunteers in 2024. His commitment to integrating new team members and developing leadership within his group exemplifies his collaborative and action-oriented leadership style. Leo is a perfect example of leading through action, a style that resonates deeply with his team members. He never asks for accolades or acknowledgment, understanding that his primary role is to empower his team to be the best they can be. Leo’s focus on team engagement and dedication to the mission of protecting Jewish life and culture has been commendable.

“As a community, we are so grateful for the remarkable work of the CSG volunteers, who have kept us safe over the past year. Leo, a young man, is emblematic of a volunteer who has risen to the challenge of the times,” Levin said. “We are thrilled to be acknowledging his dedication and contribution.”

More broadly, the JCCV AGM will reflect on one of the most challenging years our Jewish community has ever faced. For the community, it is important to what has taken place so that we can learn from our experiences and plan for the coming years. This will be the focus of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria’s (JCCV) 86th Annual General Meeting on Monday, November 18.

JCCV President Philip Zajac and JCCV CEO Naomi Levin will lead the community in a review of efforts to prevent anti-Israel motions coming to local councils, to tackle antisemitism in local schools, and to convince the Victorian Government to respond strongly to disruptive elements. They will also formally recognise the amazing growth in community grassroots advocacy.

The AGM is free to attend and all community members are invited to register to attend.