Twenty-five Jewish students and young adults from across Ukraine recently completed an 11-day journey through Israel organized jointly by Birthright Israel (Taglit), and STARS Ukraine with the support of JRNU. The program offered participants an opportunity to explore Israel, deepen their knowledge of Jewish heritage, and build lasting connections with one another.
The extensive itinerary introduced the group to sites sacred to the Jewish people, major heritage landmarks, Israel’s diverse landscapes, and popular cultural and tourist attractions. Among the highlights were the Old City of Jerusalem and the Western Wall, Masada, and an extensive tour of northern Israel, including visits to the gravesites of revered tzaddikim. In Kfar Chabad, the participants visited the landmark 770 building and learned about additional educational and communal initiatives operating in the village.
Throughout the journey, sightseeing and outdoor excursions were combined with visits to museums, markets, and historical sites. The educational and social program included lectures, Jewish studies classes, communal prayers, Shabbat programming, social events, meetings with rabbis, public figures, and representatives of different segments of Israeli society, as well as warm kumzitz gatherings filled with conversation and Jewish music.
Led by Rabbi Pinchas Vishedski, STARS Ukraine continues to operate at full pace despite the continuing emergency conditions in Ukraine. Its year-round activities provide Jewish students and young professionals with opportunities for weekly Jewish learning, holiday programs, seminars, Shabbatons, community gatherings, and educational journeys. The annual Israel trip in partnership with Birthright has become one of the program’s most sought-after and significant activities, and plans are already underway for another group to visit Israel in the near future.
“A journey like this allows young Jews not only to learn about their heritage, but to experience it in the places where Jewish history and life come alive,” said Rabbi Vishedski. “Connecting young people with their heritage, their people, and the Land of Israel helps shape a strong Jewish identity and a sense of pride that can accompany them throughout their lives.”
This successful initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Birthright Israel; the STARS World Organization, led by Rabbi Avi Cassel; Friends of STARS Ukraine, led by Rabbi Pinchas Vishedski; JRNU, under the leadership of Rabbi Shlomo Peles; and the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC).
