Thousands of Jewish students and young professionals across Russia and the FSU were surprised and delighted by YAHAD’s announcement of an exciting new destination for its much-anticipated annual journey. The program, now a cherished tradition, attracts hundreds of new participants each year who complete a dynamic and inspiring course of Jewish studies. This year, the group will be heading to Brazil.
“Our new campaign is gaining momentum across the media,” shared YAHAD Director, Rabbi Mendy Wilansky. “It’s aimed at young people from Russia, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Estonia and Latvia, with the goal of deepening their connection to their Jewish heritage through engaging weekly study sessions and gatherings. Upon completion, participants will set out on an unforgettable trip that will stay with them for a lifetime.”
The choice of Brazil follows previous trips to destinations in Western and Eastern Europe, Israel, Thailand, and China. “Brazil is a tropical and vibrant country unlike any other,” Rabbi Wilansky noted. “It has a rich and intriguing Jewish history, and is the largest nation in South America and the fifth largest in the world. For many, visiting it feels beyond reach—almost like a dream. Now, we are making that dream a reality.”
Brazil offers a wealth of wonders: gorgeous sandy beaches washed by warm Atlantic waters, the vast Amazon rainforest—home to about 60% of the world’s largest tropical forest and a vital contributor to the planet’s climate—and a culture bursting with music, carnivals, and hospitality. Its people are famously warm, with a love for gathering, football (Brazil is the only country to win the World Cup five times), and coffee—the nation produces roughly one-third of the world’s supply. Most of Brazil lies in the tropics, meaning visitors enjoy warm weather year-round.
Uniquely in South America, Brazil’s official language is Portuguese. The country also has a vibrant Jewish community, with around 40 synagogues, kosher supermarkets, and cultural institutions including a Jewish history museum in Rio de Janeiro. Throughout the journey, YAHAD ensures participants’ safety, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in a festive, joyful atmosphere.
YAHAD, an initiative of the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC), serves Jewish youth and young professionals, ages 18 to 28, offering programs that strengthen values, ideals, and motivation. Those who attend a set number of sessions are invited to join the highly sought-after annual trip—an experience that blends adventure with deep personal and cultural connection.
