For two days this summer, Raleigh, North Carolina, better known for its craft breweries and tech hubs, was transformed into a nerve center for young Jewish life worldwide.

Shluchim from across the Caribbean gathered in St. Thomas, hosted by Rabbi Asher Federman and his family. From S. Lucia to Martinique, they represented more than twenty islands. It was the first time many of them had been in the same room in years.“ Although some islands are geographically close, you can’t just drive or fly directly; it’s a long journey,” one Shliach said. “The only way we draw strength from each other is by sitting here together in person.”

For two days, Budva, Montenegro, became a hub of global Jewish life as 100 Shluchim from 40 countries across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East gathered to strengthen one another and chart the next chapter of Jewish life after Oct. 7—focused on the influx of Israeli expats and a renewed Jewish awakening in once-quiet regions.

A two-day summit for Chabad Emissaries serving Jewish communities in 40 countries throughout Europe and MENA took place in Krakow, Poland.