NextGen Leaders Program

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the NextGen Leaders Program?

  The NextGen Leaders Program is the Simon Wiesenthal Center's flagship college internship initiative. The program provides structured professional placements, leadership training, and values-based advocacy education to develop student leaders equipped to confront hate and antisemitism, build coalitions, and advance justice in their communities and careers.

• How long is the internship?

  The internship runs during the summer months, typically aligned with academic summer breaks. The 2026 program is seven weeks and begins on Monday, June 15th and runs through Friday, July 31st.

• What are the key dates and deadlines?

  • March 31: Application deadline
  • April 31: Application review concludes*
  • May 15: 2026 Cohort confirmed
  • June 15: First day of 2026 program
  • July 31: Final day of 2026 program

  *Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. April 31st is the latest an applicant will receive a final decision.

• Is this a paid internship?

  Yes. Interns receive a stipend of $2,150 to support their participation in the program. The program does not cover costs associated with travel or housing during the internship.

• Who is eligible to apply?

  The program seeks students and recent college graduates who are passionate about Jewish advocacy, leadership, and making a difference in their communities. Ideal candidates demonstrate:

  • Commitment to Jewish values and community engagement
  • Interest in government, advocacy, nonprofit, or communal work
  • Strong communication and leadership potential 
  • Desire to build coalitions and confront hate

• Can international students apply?

  Yes! International applicants are welcome but must obtain proper visa authorization from a designated J-1 sponsor organization. The Simon Wiesenthal Center cannot directly sponsor visas. Applicants should:

  • Allow 12-14 weeks for visa processing
  • Be aware that stipends to international interns are subject to federal tax withholding (14-30% unless treaty exemption applies)
  • Obtain an SSN/ITIN for tax purposes

  • Be responsible for all expenses related to travel and accommodations during the time of their internship

• What regions does the program serve?

  The program is expanding nationally with placements currently available in four areas: New York City, Chicago, Miami and Los Angeles.

• Can I apply to more than one location?

  Yes. To apply to multiple locations, please select any location for which you’d like to be considered. There is a box for each location within a single application. You do not need to fill out the application more than once.

• What types of placement organizations participate in the program?

  Interns are placed with mission-aligned organizations including:

  • Government offices and legislative bodies
  • International consulates and diplomatic missions
  • Jewish advocacy and civil rights organizations (ADL, AJC, Jewish Federations, etc.)
  • Community-based nonprofits focused on social justice

• What does the curriculum include?

  Beyond hands-on placement work, the program features structured leadership development through:

  • Mission-Driven Leadership: Values-based decision making and advocacy skills
  • Historical Responsibility: Holocaust education and lessons from history
  • Courageous Conversations: Building coalitions across difference
  • Professional Development: Networking, mentorship, and career guidance 

• For Placement Hosts: What are the benefits of hosting an intern?

  Placement organizations benefit from: 

  • Access to motivated, mission-aligned emerging leaders 
  • Fresh perspectives and additional capacity for important projects
  • Connection to the Simon Wiesenthal Center network
  • Opportunity to shape the next generation of Jewish communal leaders
  • Program support including standardized vetting, training, and coordination

  Note: Host organizations do not pay intern stipends; these are covered by the program.

• What does the internship experience include?

  Interns will work at their placement a minimum of 3 days a week, with a suggested schedule of Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. Interns and placement hosts can determine an alternative schedule by written agreement prior to the start of the program. 

• Do I need to be 18 to participate?

  Yes. Interns are required to be at least 18 years of age or reach their 18th birthday during the dates of the internship. Applicants that are 17 years of age are required to have parental permission to apply and participate in the program. 

• How do I apply or learn more?

  To apply to be a 2026 intern, please fill out the online application at wiesenthal.org/nextgen.