The 20th annual STARS Ukraine Winter Seminar brought together fifty Jewish students and young professionals from across the country for six uplifting days of immersive study, fun, and connection at the renowned Menorah JCC compound in Dnipro.

The seminar, led by Rabbi Pinchas Vishedski, CEO of STARS Ukraine and Rabbi of Kyiv’s KEDEM community, together with Rebbetzin Dina Vishedski, offered participants a unique and uplifting journey into Jewish heritage, tradition, and community. Under their guidance, the event fostered a warm and engaging atmosphere of Jewish engagement and learning.

Special lectures and classes were delivered by the Chief Rabbi of Dnipro and Chabad emissary Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki and Rebbetzin Chana, along with the dedicated staff of STARS Dnipro.

“There is one thing that remains steady and constant in Ukraine,” shared Rabbi Vishedski with a smile. “These unique seminars for Jewish students and young professionals continue to bring energy, hope, and inner Jewish meaning to the participants—despite the challenges that unfortunately continue to intensify. Whether in winter, summer, or during Passover and other holidays, the seminars are eagerly awaited and deeply appreciated.”

This successful initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of 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; YAHAD, directed by Rabbi Mendy Wilansky within the framework of the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC); and the Jewish community of Dnipro, headed by Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki.