Sixty Jewish students and young professionals from communities across Ukraine gathered in the Carpathian Mountains for the annual STARS Ukraine summer seminar, a week of Jewish learning, meaningful connections, and much-needed rest from the pressures of daily life.
Strong demand for this year’s program led organizers to move the seminar to a larger venue—the Orlan Hotel, located high in the Carpathian Mountains. The spacious complex offered comfortable accommodations, multiple lecture and activity halls, recreational facilities, kosher meals, and a peaceful setting far from the tensions affecting much of the country.
The seminar was led by Rabbi Pinchas Vishedski, CEO of STARS Ukraine and Rabbi of Kyiv’s KEDEM community, together with Rebbetzin Dina Vishedski. The diverse program combined lectures and classes on Jewish topics with workshops, Chassidic gatherings, excursions, recreational activities, and opportunities for participants to meet other young Jews from similar backgrounds.
This year’s guest of honor was Rabbi Shlomo Neeman, Director of FJC’s Education Department, who delivered a series of lectures and interactive workshops for the participants.
“The broad participation of Jewish young adults this year reflects their genuine desire to discover their roots and bring deeper meaning into their lives—something that can help them cope with the increasingly difficult situation in Ukraine and the tension, fear, and uncertainty it creates,” said Rabbi Vishedski. “The seminar gives participants renewed joy, a sense of purpose that can be carried into daily life, pride in their Jewish identity, and the opportunity to build meaningful friendships with dozens of peers who share similar backgrounds.”
STARS Ukraine continues to serve as an important source of support and connection for Jewish students and young professionals facing prolonged challenges. The organization holds regular seminars throughout the year, including winter, Passover, and summer programs, bringing together hundreds of young Jews seeking meaning, friendship, and a stronger connection to their heritage and community.
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; and the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC).
