JHA offers flexible educational programming designed for congregations, schools, and community audiences of all ages. Programs are available live and online and can be presented as one-time lectures or extended learning series.

Formats include:

• Scholarly lectures and interactive webinars
• Scholar-in-residence weekends
• Multi-session study series

Topics explore: Sephardic history, the Converso experience, and the wider story of Sefarad, with content tailored to adult education, students, educators, and intergenerational groups.

While a few return to their Jewish roots (convert back to Judaism), most stay Christian. However, upon discovering they are descendants of conversos, many embrace their Jewish heritage and feel a greater connection with the Jewish People, Sefarad, and Israel. As there are an estimated 200 million descendants of conversos in the world today, this initiative can truly transform history. The Converso Phenomenon is not just a historical footnote—it is a living, evolving story that continues to shape identities and communities across the globe.

Our cultural programs use the arts and dialogue to create accessible, engaging entry points into Sephardic heritage and Jewish history.

Program examples include:

• Film screenings and guided discussions
• Music, poetry, and performance programs
• Panel conversations and community forums
• Gala and community events in support of our mission through fundraising and social gatherings.

Capsule (Mobile) Exhibit – At the Crossroads of Sefarad

As part of our cultural programming, JHA offers At the Crossroads of Sefarad, a visually compelling capsule (mobile) exhibit developed in collaboration with the ANU Museum (formerly Beit Hatfutsot) and supported by the Portuguese government.

Designed for mobility and flexibility, the exhibit brings the saga of Sefarad to communities around the world and serves as a powerful platform for education and engagement. It can be hosted in museums, schools, synagogues, churches, and community spaces of varying sizes, and easily integrated into cultural events, lecture series, Shabbat weekends, and commemorative programs.

These programs foster connection, curiosity, and meaningful communal participation.

JHA designs custom group heritage tours to Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Morocco, Israel, and other destinations central to the Sephardic experience. Each journey is academically grounded and carefully curated, connecting pre-trip learning with immersive, on-the-ground exploration.

Tours feature:

• Expert academic and cultural guides
• Integrated educational content
• Itineraries tailored to community interests

Heritage Travel as a Fundraising Opportunity

Heritage journeys can be structured to support synagogue or institutional financial goals while remaining accessible and mission-aligned:

• A modest, transparent per-participant margin may support the sponsoring institution.
• Sponsorship and naming opportunities—such as student subsidies, scholar-in-residence components, or special activities—encourage deeper donor engagement.
• Pre- and post-trip gatherings create natural opportunities for donor cultivation, legacy conversations, and re-engaging lapsed members.

All fundraising structures are developed in full alignment with synagogue policies, rabbinic guidance, and local communal norms.

JHA works collaboratively with rabbis, educators, and lay leadership to design co-branded initiatives and tailored programs aligned with each community’s vision and goals.

Partnerships may include:

• Collaborative programs with local institutions
• Customized educational or cultural series
• Special projects aligned with community milestones or priorities

Each partnership is built to reflect the unique character, interests, and aspirations of the community we serve.