A Powerful Experience: Diller Teen Fellows Visit the Nova Festival Exhibition
Posted on 01/24/2025 @ 05:00 AM

Images from the Diller Teen Fellows visit to the Nova Exhibition were taken by fellow Gabrielle Heckler.
Miami’s Diller Teen Fellows (20 select 10th & 11th graders) recently visited the Nova Music Festival Exhibition in Miami, a powerful and moving memorial tribute to the tragic events of October 7, 2023.
Through multimedia displays, artifacts, photographs, and personal stories, the exhibit educates visitors about the terror attacks that devastated Israel and the global Jewish community, while highlighting the importance of resilience and remembrance.
The Fellows were deeply impacted by the exhibit’s ability to bring these events to life and underscore the dangers of hatred and intolerance.
“This is a story that transcends the Jewish community,” shared one Fellow. “It’s about recognizing the importance of standing against violence and hatred, no matter where it happens.”
The experience heightened their sense of responsibility to educate others and be strong voices for Israel and the Jewish people.
“As young leaders, we have the responsibility to use our voices for good,” said another Fellow. “This experience reminds us why it’s important to speak up for what is right.”

“Hineini / Here I am. It’s what I said at Auschwitz and all I can say here too.”
Written on a card and placed at the collection of shoes left behind at the Nova Music Festival after terrorists attacked.
Walking through the exhibition, the Fellows took time to reflect, engage in meaningful dialogue, and process the emotions it evoked.
“I now see how important it is for people to learn about these events,” one Fellow shared. “It’s not just about remembering the past; it’s about ensuring the future is different.”
The stories of families torn apart and lives shattered served as a poignant reminder of the critical need to combat hatred with awareness and action.
Our Diller Teen Fellows left with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to amplifying these voices and carrying forward the lessons learned to their family and school communities.

The Nova Festival Exhibition remains open to the public through mid-February, offering an opportunity for all to connect with its powerful message and reflect on the importance of standing against hate and standing up for good. To visit the Nova Exhibition, click here.
To learn more about the Diller Teen Fellows program, contact Bari Lutz barilutz@caje-miami.org