BROOKLYN, N.Y. (VINnews) — Hundreds of Jewish students and their families from around the world are gathering in Brooklyn this weekend for an international competition that blends education, identity and community.

Organizers say about 1,200 participants from 25 countries are attending the CKids Summit and the JewQ International Jewish Knowledge Championship, an event centered on a final competition Sunday where students will test their knowledge of Jewish texts, history and traditions.

The finalists advanced through months of preparation and a series of regional competitions that drew more than 4,500 students across 250 events, organizers said. Many of the competitors are public school students who are the only Jewish children in their classrooms.

The program, run by CKids International at Chabad headquarters, is designed to encourage students to pursue Jewish learning in a structured, competitive format. Organizers say it aims to engage children through a model inspired by educational approaches that emphasize motivation, achievement and positive reinforcement.

The event comes as some Jewish families say they are navigating concerns about antisemitism, social media influences and challenges related to identity and belonging. Organizers say many participants come from communities where access to Jewish education is limited.

Alongside the competition, the weekend includes programming for parents focused on raising Jewish children, including discussions on education, emotional well-being, and how to address difficult topics such as antisemitism and global conflict.

Families will also take part in activities across Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighborhood, including visits to cultural and religious sites tied to Jewish life.

The championship finale is scheduled for Sunday at a banquet hall in Brooklyn, where organizers say finalists will compete before an audience in a high-energy setting after months of study. A livestream of the event is also available.