Living Israel Chanukah Edition 2015

CHANUKAH EDITION 2015

MAKING MIRACLES! How Olim are fueling change in Israel — and the world

Founded in 2002 by Rabbi Yehoshua Fass and Tony Gelbart, Nefesh B’Nefesh in cooperation with the Israeli Government, The

CONTENTS

Jewish Agency for Israel, KKL, and JNF–USA, is dedicated to revitalizing Aliyah from North America and the UK by removing or minimizing the financial,

4 From Sinai to Israel: Finding True Love in the Holy Land

professional, logistical and social obstacles of Aliyah. The support and comprehensive services provided by Nefesh B’Nefesh

7 8 Reasons Why Retirees Love Living in Israel

to over 45,000 newcomers has ensured that over 90% of its Olim have remained in Israel.

8 Modern Future of Ancient Israel

1-866-4-ALIYAH info@nbn.org.il www.nbn.org.il #LIVELOVEISRAEL

LIVING ISRAEL Chanukah Edition 2015 SENIOR EDITOR Rachel Sales

12 Building the Future from Israel

20 8 Only-in-Israel Moments

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Zo Flamenbaum SALES IMP Group LTD: Gidon Katz Dorit Basal- Einav Ecker PHOTOGRAPHY Michael Alvarez-Pereyre COVER Photographer Michael Alvarez-Pereyre Assistant Pavlina Schultz Makeup Nili Sarig Luft DESIGN verticalloop.com

22 8 Millennial Olim who are Making their Mark in Israel

28 How Olim are Transforming Israel’s Religious Communities

30 8 New Arrivals: Meet 8 of Israel’s Newest Citizens

32 What to Expect on Day 1 of Aliyah

For all magazine inquiries, email: LivingIsrael@nbn.org.il

36 36 Hours with a Doctor

If you would like to contribute to our efforts in building Israel one Oleh at a time, contact donate@nbn.org.il or visit nbn.org.il/give

40 Why 8 Olim Kids Love Israel

in Israel’s South

LIVING ISRAEL

CO-FOUNDER’S NOTE NBN Founders: Rabbi Yehoshua Fass and Tony Gelbart.

W

e are pleased to present to you our Chanukah edition of Living Israel. This magazine highlights remarkable individuals, incredible communities, fascinating trends and outstanding advancements both in Israeli society and the communities at large. We hope that this edition provides you not only with a taste of “living life in Israel” but also an appreciation of the impact and influence Olim are having on our precious Homeland.

As this magazine is being sent to print, the Jewish people are experiencing difficult times in Israel. Evil has once again unmasked itself and there is palpable angst and concern on the streets. However, life certainly goes on as we witness, on a daily basis, remarkable unity and amazing heroism amongst the people of Israel. The resilience of our incredible nation is undeniably breathtaking.

Rav Kook once explained that the Chanukah lights have counterintuitive halachot. Whereas Shabbat candles require certain wicks and distinct oils that create a guaranteed steady flame, these restrictions do not apply to the lights of the Chanukiah. The Talmud is actually surprisingly lenient with the tangible light-producing elements of the Chanukah menorah. In essence, Rav Kook explained, the special rules of the Chanukah candles reflect the nature of the Maccabean struggle both politically and spiritually.

The Maccabean revolt occurred during one of our most

vulnerable periods as a nation. And yet we united, recommitted, reestablished and demonstrated to the world our national resilience. This contrast is reflected in the flames of the Chanukah lights. Whereas the menorah lights do not have to be steady or perfect, they must be seen and appreciated by passersby. So too, the Jewish nation, when experiencing those vulnerable moments in our history (albeit shaky and unstable), have the incredible ability to shine bright and strong.

During these difficult times of national “vulnerability”, we are witnessing incredible expressions of Zionism, of humanity, of unity, of undeterred spirit, of acts of kindness, of renewed spirituality and precious facets of our people and our land. The light of our people most definitely shines bright and serves as our beacon and strength.

We hope that this edition of Living Israel shares some of that magnificent radiance of our people reunited and thriving in their homeland.

RABBI YEHOSHUA FASS Executive Director and Co-Founder, Nefesh B’Nefesh

LIVING ISRAEL

3

FROM SINAI TO ISRAEL

Finding True in the HOLY LAND

Dan and Mimi Berman near their house in Kibbutz Tirat Tzvi. Four years ago, they met as soldiers living on the Kibbutz. They fell in love, got married and decided to build their lives as a couple on the Kibbutz.

A LOVE OF ZIONISM AND EACH OTHER For Emily Mostow and Nati Wind, the challenge of their seven-month long distance relationship also paled in comparison to the life they looked forward to leading together in Israel.

Erin and Tal

W

Left: Michael Alvarez-Pereyre. | All other images courtesy of the couples.

hen Erin Erskine found Tal on OkCupid, she messaged him, “I want to learn Hebrew. Would you be my conversation partner?”

“What do I get out of this?”

Tal asked.

“The chance to talk to me.”

Emily was in her last year at Brandeis University when she met Nati, an American Hesder student at Yeshivat HaKotel, during a week-long vacation in Israel. The two went on a date only two nights after they met—and then proceeded to go on dates every single night until Emily flew back to the US. “I had wanted to make Aliyah since the eighth grade, so I knew I had to be with someone who cared about Israel as much as I did,” said Emily.

At the time, Erin was living in Chicago and Tal was in Israel, but the two began communicating daily—first in Facebook messages and then on Skype. They shared stories about their families and friends, and soon found themselves chatting for hours a day.

As planned, Emily made Aliyah shortly after graduation. The day after she landed in Israel, Nati sent her on a scavenger hunt in Jerusalem to all of the places they had visited on their first date, and then proposed to her at Ben Gurion Airport.

A few months later, Erin and Tal decided that it was finally time to meet in person. “I wanted to know, is he really this amazing?” Over the course of the next year, Tal flew to Chicago twice and Erin visited Israel once, exploring the country for the first time with her long-distance love. On Tal’s last visit to the US, he proposed to Erin and the two made a plan to create a life together in Israel.

“Living in this country, becoming a teacher, and marrying someone who shares my ideals were all of my dreams come true,” said Emily.

Emily and Nati

For many Olim who fall in love in Israel, meeting someone who understands their dreams only makes their Aliyah experiences more fulfilling. This was how Eliezer Siminovsky felt when he met Aya Yisraeli at a barbecue on a kibbutz in Northern Israel. Though she was only 18, Aya appreciated Eliezer’s reason for leaving New York - to serve in the Israeli army. “She understood my Zionism and why I wanted to be close to my roots,” said Eliezer.

While Eliezer worked in Europe and the US for several months, he and Aya kept in touch, picking up their relationship upon his return. After she finished her Sherut Leumi (national service), the two began studying at Bar Ilan University.

After participating in a five-month internship in Tel Aviv, getting hired by the company where she interned, and officially making Aliyah, Erin set down roots in Ramat Gan with Tal.

A few months ago, they got married.

“Even when we were far apart, we were both happy to put in the work for each other,” said Erin. “We knew it was a partnership that was better than anything we’d experienced before.”

Want to meet your match in Israel?

Visit seeyouinisrael.org

Eliezer and Aya

LIVING ISRAEL

5

FULFILLING TWO DREAMS AT ONCE For new Olim, finding love in Israel often comes with the added bonus of having a support system in Israel. But when Sabrina Mahoubi decided to give up her spot at New York University in order to attend university in Israel, she was set on making it in Israel on her own. In fact, when she met Uriya at a Yom Kippur break-fast in the Old City and he asked for her phone number, she declined at first. But then he persisted, and she agreed.

The two traveled throughout Israel, taking in Israel’s museums and beaches, and spending time with Uriya’s family in Oranit.

“Being in Israel alone really gave me the chance to depend on Uriya, and it became easier for us to become best friends,” said Sabrina.

On a 10-day trip to Los Angeles, Sabrina’s family met Uriya, and soon after, the two got engaged. For their wedding, 80 people from Sabrina’s family flew to Israel to celebrate with the young couple.

Sabrina and Uriya

Zisie and Moi

ONLY IN ISRAEL The chances of Moi Benchimol and Zisie meeting would have been slim—if they had not been next door neighbors in Israel.

Their families both owned apartments in Jerusalem, and Moi would travel to Israel from his home in Venezuela, and Zisie from England to celebrate the holidays.

While attending Yeshiva University in New York, Moi improved his English and became friends with Zisie’s older sister. On one Pesach vacation in Israel, Zisie’s sister set the two up. They took a Yom Tov walk around Jerusalem, and proceeded to keep in touch with visits from London to Miami to Caracas and back to Israel.

“We come from different backgrounds and different languages, but we’re still so similar,” said Moi. “No matter where Jews live in the world, we all still have so much in common.”

When Moi began an MBA program at Tel Aviv University, Zisie transferred from the London School of Fashion to Shenkar College in Tel Aviv, and made Aliyah. After dating for six months in Israel, the couple got engaged.

“We were from opposite sides of the world, but we were far from strangers,” said Zisie. “It’s a love story that could only have happened in Israel.”

6

LIVING ISRAEL

8 Reasons

WHY RETIREES LOVE LIVING IN ISRAEL M

ore empty nesters than ever before are moving to Israel—to be closer to family and to fulfill lifelong dreams of living in Israel. If you’re a retiree considering Aliyah, here are eight things to look forward to:

MAKING AN IMPACT ON ISRAEL Volunteerism is alive and well in Israel, and retirees have ample opportunity to make a difference—from serving food at soup kitchens to providing support to soldiers.

BEING WITH YOUR KIDS AND GRANDKIDS For grandparents who have watched their grandchildren grow up over Skype, there’s nothing better than reuniting in Israel. Israel is a very family-conscious country, and families gather for chagim, Shabbat and often, to just spend time together during the week.

MEETING OTHER OLIM THROUGH NEFESH B’NEFESH EVENTS Thanks to Nefesh B’Nefesh, acclimating to Israel is easier than it’s ever been with weekly educational seminars, as well as social events and tours. Retirees learn exactly what they need to know for a smooth transition, while forging a community with other Olim.

ENJOYING THE BEACH The Mediterranean Sea is no more than a short drive away.

But for retirees who want to see the stunning sea everyday, check out Olim-friendly seaside communities in Herzliya, Netanya and Ashkelon.

TAKING JEWISH AND HEBREW CLASSES

GETTING INCREDIBLE HEALTHCARE

In a country full of synagogues and Jewish learning institutions, there are unlimited shiurim and lectures to attend. For Olim, Hebrew Ulpan classes are offered for free, and serve as a great way to sharpen your Hebrew skills and meet other like-minded retirees.

One of the amazing benefits of living in Israel is being able to see top-notch English-speaking doctors—for a fraction of the price paid in the US, and with no pre-existing conditions.

EXPERIENCING A FANTASTIC QUALITY OF LIFE From shopping in the shuk for fresh vegetables to taking your daily stroll to the Kotel to setting out on a short trip to a tzimmer (Israeli-style B&B), you will finally be able to soak up the best of Israel every single day.

CREATING A LIFE IN THE JEWISH HOMELAND There’s no greater feeling than setting down roots in Israel and feeling like you absolutely belong. Between volunteering, studying, exploring Israel, and spending time with new friends and family, many Olim find themselves feeling more fulfilled than they have in years.

LIVING ISRAEL

7

8

LIVING ISRAEL

O

nce mostly sand and dreams, Israel is rapidly developing into one of the most advanced forces of technology, innovation, and culture in the world. Learn how these four future-oriented cities are creating significant change in Israel and beyond.

MODI’IN Since the foundation was laid in 1993 by the late Prime Minister Yitzchak Rabin, Modi’in has developed into a progressive center dedicated to the younger generation.

Since the first residents nested in 1996, 18,000 babies have been born, 200 kindergartens and schools have been built, and over 50% of the municipal budget has been allocated to education.

Modi’in’s future-oriented community would not be the same without a bow to its past. Modi’in was named after Matityahu and his five sons, also known as the Maccabim. What is now the fourth largest city in Israel was once the site of the epic battle between the Maccabim and the Greeks, exactly where the miracle of Chanukah took place and the Festival of Lights was born. This could be the reason why family is considered the light of the city, and is so heartily ingrained within every inch of Modi’in.

Situated between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Modi’in is prime location for new families to settle, including 12% of new Olim. Since 2008, the central railway station has allowed for thousands of people to commute to Tel Aviv in 20 minutes.

The planned train from Modi’in to Jerusalem will ensure the same quick journey.

Modi’in is committed to keeping 50% of the city covered in green landscape, including bike paths and playgrounds, and has plans for new neighborhoods, a water park, and an outdoor, upscale shopping center.

© Blog Midlife in Maine

Built on its genuine desire to invest in youth as the future of Israel, Modi’in is growing into an educationally and culturally sound hub to raise children into model adults–just like Matityahu would have wanted for his five sons.

“Modi’in is a city which moves with the children and it always has. Once we had our little girl, we suddenly realized, we had a true community,” said Eyal Malul, Spokesman for the Modi’in Municipality.

LIVING ISRAEL

9

JERUSALEM

advanced technology park, only 20% complete but already employing over 1,200 southern residents. Ben Gurion University’s 20,000 students can find a wealth of employment opportunities, locally.

Overflowing with 3,000 years of history, Jerusalem is where Israel’s past, present and future collide.

The largest and most diverse city in Israel, with over 800,000 residents, the City of Gold boasts many of the country’s most important religious and historical sites, as well as academic excellence, steadfast spirituality and cosmopolitan culture. The new light rail has already changed the city’s accessibility, and adds a modern layer to the deeply rooted stones of the past.

The city is also socially conscious and works hard at preserving and beautifying its surroundings. From creating the desert’s largest green oasis to using energy panels to power malls, Be’er Sheva is dedicating its resources to making it a place where people want to live.

BE’ER SHEVA

With the influx of young internationals as inspiration, Jerusalem is growing as a distinctive cultural center with its own startup culture. Future plans include a cable car into the Old City and a dedicated set for global filmmakers.

Thanks to daily trains and major highways, the unofficial capital of the South is now directly accessible to the rest of the country.

“The real gem of Be’er Sheva is in the warmth of the community. Once you step into this city of southern hospitality, you’ll be invited into a neighbor's home within hours. The core of this city’s specialty has always been the people in it,” said Ravit Greenberg, Director of the Nefesh B’Nefesh Go South Program.

Be’er Sheva (also known as B7) is fast becoming the cyber-security center of the world, and one of the top seven cities to watch for high-tech and innovation, according to Global Technology Emerging Markets 2015. At the forefront of transformation is B7’s

“The real gem of Be’er Sheva lies in the warmth of the community"

“Jerusalem will be a magnet for the world’s greatest minds, the most productive intellectuals, and a site of pilgrimage for millions from Israel and around the world,” said Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat.

10

LIVING ISRAEL

© 3dvision | www.3dvision.co.il

Be’er Sheva is pioneering the next tidal wave of advancements and innovation, ensuring that the “Negev is now.”

© Gild | Dreamstime.com

Be’er Sheva exemplifies a hands-on approach towards creating change for the future of Israel, and is being driven by the heart of the community.

Jerusalem is home to Hebrew University, one of the world’s top 50 universities, and 15 other esteemed educational institutions. Each year, over 40,000 students from 80 countries come to Jerusalem to study subjects ranging from biomedicine to dance.

TEL AVIV Non-stop Tel Aviv has propelled itself into a bustling center of growth for technology, culture and tourism. Named second to Silicon Valley as the most innovative city by The Wall Street Journal. Tel Aviv is experiencing a rapid growth rate of venture capital firms, startup accelerators, and co-working spaces that foster advancement and inspiration at every step.

Set up to become a smart city, Tel Aviv is becoming the most accessible hub of hi-tech, resources, and support in the world, securing its spot as the go-to global business center. Citywide Wi-Fi and the newly started construction for the London-like light rail system will further accelerate this transformation.

In addition to its progressive hi-tech space, the city cultivates an appreciation for culture. Tel Aviv attracts millions annually for all types of events, from the Digital-Life-Design Conference to various music and art festivals.

Over 3,000 new immigrants land in Tel Aviv annually, creating an international home of acceptance for all.

“If you’re looking for the American dream, move to Tel Aviv.

With a good dollop of Zionism, there is so much room to grow and have the chance to fulfill your own potential. Whether it’s a new app or a wings shop, it can be done and you’ll be supported the whole way,” said Jonathan Javor, Co-Founder of TLV Internationals, a community for Olim in Tel Aviv.

Explore the different communities in Israel to find the right fit for you.

Contact communities@nbn.org.il or visit nbn.org.il/community

LIVING ISRAEL

11

Building the future from Israel

M

ention Israel to international tech investors and you’ll already have their attention. A country of only eight million people, Israel has a world reputation for cultivating innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought-leaders. Driven Olim not only reap the benefits of being big fish in a small pond, but they also have the potential to change the world.

Here are the stories of three extraordinary Olim who are eradicating disease, infusing meaning into people’s lives, and giving Israeli startups the boost they need to succeed—all on a global scale.

LIVING ISRAEL

13

The Entrepreneur who is Committed to SAVING LIVES I

n 2004, Ariel Beery was fresh out of the Israeli army and an undergraduate student at Columbia University. Israel was a hot topic on campus, and Ariel found that the discussions were far from nuanced. There were pro-Israel activists and there were anti-Israel activists, and thousands of miles from the Middle East, the student body could not find common ground.

Ariel took his frustrations to the Columbia Daily Spectator, penning op-eds that sought to make sense of both sides. In response, he received both hate mail and letters of support from pro-Israel students who had faced intimidation in the classroom.

“The more I wrote, the more stories came out,” said Ariel. “And I felt empowered by the people who put their trust in me to fight for justice on their behalf.”

Ariel shared his fellow students’ stories in his op-eds, and helped form a student activist group that promoted Columbia Unbecoming, a documentary that aired students’ testimonials and called for more academic freedom on campus. The controversy garnered national media attention, gaining coverage in outlets from The New York Times to CBS News.

14

LIVING ISRAEL

A JEWISH ACTIVIST GOES GLOBAL After leaving the negative campus atmosphere and witnessing the beginnings of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement (BDS), Ariel was searching for ways that young people could positively reflect their Jewish identities. Growing up in New York City, Ariel had been active in the HaShomer HaTzair youth movement, and in 1998, at the age of 19, had made Aliyah with a cohort to volunteer in Israel and fulfill its ideology.

“I wanted the community to think about how being Jewish adds to our identity, and doesn’t restrict us,” said Ariel.

He decided to launch PresenTense, a magazine that provided space for young Jews to exhibit the diverse expressions of their Jewish identities.

Together, Ariel, and his co-founder Aharon Horwitz, launched the PresenTense Institute, a six-week incubator and accelerator in Jerusalem for budding entrepreneurs.

Ariel Beery

“From our perspective, the group of Jewish technologists and social activists reflected the realization of the collective potential of the Jewish people,” said Ariel. They named that realization, Creative Zionism.

Over the course of eight years, PresenTense grew to become an international accelerator for Jewish social entrepreneurs. But once Ariel became the Global CEO, he found that he missed working one-on-one with people. He was given the opportunity to get his hands dirty once again when David Levitz, a childhood friend, asked Ariel to advise him on his biomedical optics fellowship in Israel. After a year of working together, Ariel and David realized that they could use mobile technology to solve global problems.

“I told my co-founder, I can do this, but I want to work on something that will save the most lives as quickly as possible,” said Ariel. From MobileODT’s Tel Aviv office, they chose to fight cervical cancer.

"And I felt empowered by the people who put their trust in me to fight for justice on their behalf.”

BRINGING TECHNOLOGY UNTO THE NATIONS For Ariel, Israel has always been the best place to be an entrepreneur.

“Entrepreneurs are the heroes in Israel, and the community is very supportive of their work,” said Ariel. “Israel encourages risks in a way that other countries do not.”

He didn’t realize, though, how much cachet Israeli technology carried throughout the world." At a medical device conference in France, a North African representative approached Ariel and attempted to buy MobileODT’s prototype on the spot in cash.

“You Israelis are so good with technology,” said the representative.

“This must be excellent.”

Since developing the prototype, MobileODT has been marketing it in Kenya, which sees cervical cancer as the number one cause of death among women. Soon, they will be expanding further into East Africa, as well as to India and the United States. In recognition of MobileODT’s commendable work, the company won the 2015 MedTech Innovator competition, and received a “$200,000 prize.

Between overseeing a staff of 20+ people and selling a product that he knows is improving people’s lives, Ariel is home to pick up his three-year-old daughter from daycare and eat dinner with his wife, Erin. For Ariel, there are only two focuses in his life—work and family—and both make him feel like he is fulfilling his goal of making the world a better place—from Israel.

“To me, being Jewish is about taking action,” said Ariel. “And Israel should be a platform where Jewish people create change in the world.”

LIVING ISRAEL

15

Spreading Positivity and Spirituality THROUGHOUT THE WORLD E

ach morning, with her eyes still closed, Kaley Zeitouni wiggles her toes, moves her feet, and shakes her legs.

Then she takes a deep breath, opens her eyes, and when she can see, she thinks, “Everything is working! We’re on for the day.” She thanks God and gets out of bed.

When Kaley was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) at age 12, her entire life changed. “On any day, anything can happen to us,” said Kaley. “Most of us don’t live with that awareness, but I do.”

This knowledge has made Kaley embrace every single day and jump into each of her pursuits with a full heart. The same year that she was diagnosed with MS, Kaley became a motivational speaker, sharing her story and her positive mindset with thousands of people. At 13, Kaley and her friends started the nonprofit, Youth Against MS, which developed chapters throughout the United States and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support MS research.

At 29, Kaley has taken on another challenge—moving to Israel and becoming COO of the startup nonprofit, The Elevation Project. For Kaley, this not only meant leaving her home in Los Angeles, but moving to a country where she needed to find new doctors, understand a foreign medical system, and develop a rhythm that worked for her. Kaley wasn’t daunted.

16

LIVING ISRAEL

survivors to process their trauma and couples to improve their relationships.

But soon the social entrepreneur found herself becoming restless. “I started getting that itch again, and I was ready to build something from the bottom up,” said Kaley. She was recruited to help launch Sanguine Biosciences, a biotech company that advances personalized medicine by bridging the gap between patients and clinical researchers in order to create efficient and transparent technological solutions to medical problems. Kaley developed the company’s initial patient relations platform, empowered patients to play a larger role in the research that impacted them, and gained “a hands-on MBA” in the process.

Kaley was inspired to take the business skills she had learned back to the nonprofit sector, and she joined American Friends of Magen David Adom. She loved knowing that the dollars she raised each went toward new ambulances, pints of blood, and saving as many lives as possible. She also enjoyed spending every day speaking about Israel.

“That was the transition I needed,” said Kaley. “I finally knew that it was time to come home.”

CARPE DIEM IN ISRAEL “When you acknowledge that life is fleeting, then you realize that you can’t wait on your dreams,” said Kaley. “You need to make them happen.”

SO MANY AVENUES FOR HEALING Spirituality has always been integral to Kaley’s daily life, and after high school, she enrolled in a seminary in Jerusalem. She was ill at the time and wanted to take a break before jumping into a stressful college environment.

“My health really improved in Israel, and the experience gave me the space I needed to take care of myself,” said Kaley.

From there, Kaley returned to the US and began a multifaceted professional journey, each stop devoted to another mode of healing others. After graduating from the University of Southern California, Kaley earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology and became a marriage and family therapist, working with Holocaust

For Kaley, moving to Israel wasn’t a decision made on a whim.

She wanted a job waiting for her and all of her medical care in place. When Rabbi Doniel Katz approached Kaley and asked her to become the COO of The Elevation Project, a self transformation seminar series based on Torah psychology that unlocks tools to achieve higher consciousness and techniques for spiritual development, Kaley immediately jumped on board.

“The Elevation Project’s timing is perfect because many people are searching for this kind of product,” said Kaley.

“And the amazing thing is that it’s 3,000 years old!”

The seminar is focused on expanding to become an international, spiritual movement. Two months before moving to Israel, Kaley was put in charge of the business side of the organization—planning events, developing strategies with the board, hiring the staff, fundraising, and creating the budget.

While making the arrangements to move her life to Israel, Kaley connected with specialists at Tel Hashomer Hospital who understood her needs, and received assistance from Nefesh B’Nefesh to set up her health insurance before she arrived. By the time Kaley made Aliyah in July 2015, she had a job that felt meaningful, full medical coverage, and a home in a land that feels in sync with her seize-the-day mentality.

“People here have a zest for life and cherish their relationships and everyday that they’re alive,” said Kaley.

LIVING ISRAEL

17

Israel’s TECH EVANGELIST A

t 3:30 in the morning, Hillel Fuld props himself up in bed to scroll through the news on his iPhone. It’s still the afternoon in Silicon Valley, and Hillel, who lives and breathes technology, wants to make sure he’s up-to-date. Two hours later, he’s responding to 700+ emails from entrepreneurs seeking his advice and tech writers requesting a quote.

Then, he davens, eats breakfast with his wife and five kids, and is out of the house. But before jumping in his car toward his office in Tel Aviv, Hillel snaps a signature selfie in front of a stunning Beit Shemesh view. “I believe in spreading optimism and positivity online,” said Hillel.

For the self-made startup advisor, tech blogger, and CMO of the startup, Zula, it’s passion and energy that have dictated Hillel’s life for the past decade.

He’s set on helping startups find their paths to success in the country he loves.

A FORTUITOUS LANDING IN THE ISRAELI TECH SCENE At 15, Hillel made Aliyah with his parents and began living the life of an Israeli teenager. He attended a local high school, served in an artillery unit in the IDF, and attended Bar Ilan University, where he majored in sociology and political science and met his future wife, Racheli.

After college, Hillel, like many recent graduates, didn’t know what he wanted to do professionally. When someone recommended that he become a technical writer, he enrolled in a course. “I had no idea what it was at the time,” said Hillel. “But I knew that I loved technology.”

18

LIVING ISRAEL

In his fifth interview for a job in the technical writing department at Comverse, Hillel was told, “You’re very energetic. Can you really sit still and write all day?”

Hillel got the job, but quickly realized that the life of a technical writer wasn’t interesting enough for him. Yet, he knew that he loved writing about technology. Each morning, before getting started on the user manual of the day, he’d open his blog and write analyses and forecasts about the tech industry. Soon, Hillel developed a following and dozens of Israeli startups began reaching out to him for advice.

“When I started the blog, I didn’t care who liked it or who read it,” said Hillel.

“But I learned that when you write about something on the internet, you can brand yourself as an expert.”

A TECH EVANGELIST IN ISRAEL The dozens of startups requesting Hillel’s feedback soon turned to hundreds and Hillel was named Senior Evangelist at a mobile advertising company. This entailed meeting with new Israeli startups each day to provide value, thereby building his company’s brand. Over morning, lunch, and afternoon meetings, Hillel helped startups better tell their stories, approach journalists, grow their audience, and create effective content.

He also introduced them to venture capital firms throughout Israel and the world. While he has equity in several of the companies he has advised, his most frequent takeaway is a steak lunch.

“I believe in karma,” said Hillel. “If you do good things for people, good things will come back to you. Plus, if you help the Israeli startup ecosystem, you help Israel change the world.”

LIVING THE SILICON VALLEY DREAM As Hillel’s reputation grew, he began to field job offers from top tech companies in Silicon Valley. The paychecks were high and the perks were unbelievable, but Hillel never once considered leaving Israel.

“I genuinely love living in Israel, and my quality of life here is great,” said Hillel. “I also know that I would never have stood out in America the way that I’ve been able to stand out in Israel.”

According to Hillel, there are thousands of marketing professionals in the United States who are helpful in guiding startups to tell their stories in subtle and effective ways. Yet, in Israel, there are impressive innovators who lack the finesse necessary to get the exposure they need—and Hillel is able to help them with that.

It also doesn’t hurt that in such a small country, Hillel is constantly bumping into fellow tech junkies. On one Friday, Hillel snapped a shot from a Beit Shemesh grocery store and posted on Instagram, “Reason #400,612 that I love living in Israel. I go Friday morning shopping and who do I see? The web developer of a startup I use daily, Meerkat. Then I go to the next aisle and bump into (quite literally) the CEO of another big tech company. Finally you get on line to pay and who’s in front of you? The angel investor who backed two startups you recommended to him in the last year alone. I guess that’s what they meant when they called us #StartupNation.”

For Hillel, success comes down to being passionate. “If you’re only following money, you’ll never succeed,” said Hillel. “But if there’s a problem that you really want to solve, you’ve got a great shot.”

After his last meeting of the day, Hillel is back in Beit Shemesh, present to put his children to bed and to eat dinner with his wife. Then, he’s back online—soaking up the news, sharing his insights with the world, and guiding others toward making their mark.

"If you do good things for people, good things will come back to you.

Plus, if you help the Israeli startup ecosystem, you help Israel change the world".

LIVING ISRAEL

19

8 ONLY IN ISRAEL

MOMENTS Cold Drinks on a Hot Day

The Sweetest Challah

Kindness of Strangers

While standing outside in the paralyzing heat and waiting for Misrad Hapnim to open, I noticed that the guy behind me was passing out cold bottles of water and plastic cups to everyone in line. It made my day. This is the kind of thing you only see in Israel and it was a nice reminder of why I chose to live in this country.

We forgot to buy challah for Shabbat one week, so we rushed to the local bakery to buy a loaf, but it was already closed. To our pleasant surprise, the bakery hangs challahs out for people who need or forgot them.

A young woman, Aliza, misplaced her wallet in a cab in Tel Aviv. Without any information about the cab, or contact information in her wallet, she had given up hope of getting it back.

Meanwhile, Guy, the driver, found her ID and saw that she lived in Mitzpe Yericho. He called information and managed to track her down. In the end, Aliza was able to pick up her wallet.

- Chana Fixler

An Engineer Mitzvah Man We went to the science museum in Be’er Sheva last December. When we unpacked the baby’s stroller from the car, we discovered that a screw had come out and the buggy couldn’t be pushed. I asked the cashier if I could get some tape or a rubber band to temporarily fix the stroller. Instead, he called one of the guys from the lab, and told me they’d “sort it out.” The next thing I knew, I got a call to come back to the front area where we found a fully fixed buggy–the broken part replaced!

- Shabbat shalom!

Making Connections 30,000 Feet in the Air I arrived in Israel fresh out of grad school with an engineering degree in my hand and a dream in my heart.

When my in-laws flew to Israel to visit us, they befriended an Israeli man sitting next to them on the plane.

They told him about my professional background, and the next day he put me in touch with his brother who works for Apple Inc. in Israel. Several interviews later, I began my first day of work at Apple. Israelis know that making Aliyah isn’t easy, so they are humbled when they hear you've done it and their warm side shines through.

- Moey Sutton

- Naomi Feinmesser

- Uri & Aliza Pilichowski

A True Israeli Wedding Annette and Lior were getting married at the Harmonia Bagan event space.

Unfortunately, their relatives assumed the event had been cancelled because the bride's father had passed away.

When the few guests saw that it was nearing ten at night and there were only ten people present, they posted on Facebook, asking ¯people to come.

By the end of the evening, there were around 2,000 guests who came to sing and dance and bring simcha to the chatan and kallah.

A University Fit for a Baby A student brought her baby to class at Hebrew University because she didn’t have a babysitter. When the child began to cry, the teacher held him, calmed him down, and continued to teach.

Tehillim to Treasure I was exhausted and had just finished an incredibly annoying day. My backpack was heavy and I didn’t feel like walking, so I was relieved when a taxi finally stopped to pick me up.

The driver was chatty and I was too tired to engage, so I just answered his questions automatically. Yes, I am American. Yes, I wanted to make Aliyah. Yes, I am Jewish. Am I religious?

Yes. Do I like being religious? Yes, of course. Do I know what Tehillim are?

Yes, I know what Tehillim are.

After I answered the last question, the driver leaned over, pulled out a worn sefer of Tehillim from his glove compartment, and handed it to me.

It was green and wrapped in plastic. I told him it was beautiful as I tried to hand it back. He told me to keep it, that it used to belong to his daughter.

The driver kept talking. He told me about how beautiful his daughter was; how she was sweet and smart; that she had earned two degrees in medicine; that she was thinking of getting married. He told me that one night, she went to sleep and never woke up.

He told me that when I felt alone, or sad, or sick, or missing my family, or worried about a loved one, I should read from this book of Tehillim. He told me I should read it when I was ready to get married. I told him how sorry I was about his daughter, and I thanked him for the sefer.

We arrived at my Kibbutz and I got out of the car. Thanks again, I said. He smiled and waved goodbye.

- Shev Zacks

8 Millennial Olim Who are Making Their Mark in Israel

22

LIVING ISRAEL

S

ince Israel’s First Aliyah in 1882, young Jews have flocked to Israel to make their mark—launching kibbutzim, making the desert bloom, and transforming the country’s medical care. Today’s young Olim are no different. From competing in the Israel National Football Team first-ever campaign to qualify for the European Championship to founding an organization that mobilizes English-speaking Olim to vote in Israel’s elections, Olim are using their skillsets and passions to build Israel in ways that are most meaningful to them. Here are eight North American Olim—all 30 or younger—who are making a difference in Israel.

LAHAV HARKOV, 27 The Jerusalem Post’s Knesset Reporter While growing up in New Jersey, Lahav Harkov had two dreams: to live in Israel and to become a journalist. At Ramaz Upper School, Lahav served as editorin-chief of Our Israel, the Israel weekly, and as a reporter for The Rampage, the school newspaper. After making Aliyah at 17 and volunteering to do National Service, Lahav broke into the world of Israeli media, getting freelance gigs with Makor Rishon before nabbing the position of breaking news editor at the Jerusalem Post. By age 23, Lahav became The Jerusalem Post’s Knesset Reporter.

In her day-to-day role, Lahav sits in on Knesset meetings, eats lunch with Members of Knesset, interviews top ministers, and reports on everything from new laws to Knesset squabbles.

Through her Twitter following of almost 15,000, Lahav shares important updates from the floor of the Knesset, revealing real-time snapshots about Israeli democracy, and correcting false reporting about Israel.

“Each day, I see Israel’s strong democracy first-hand and then I show the world how it plays into every facet of Israeli life.”

Lahav reconnects with Member of Knesset and former Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Oren upon his return from a conference in Paris.

LIVING ISRAEL

23

JOSH WESFIELD, 26 Volunteer Medic As a volunteer medic for United Hatzalah, Josh Wesfield fields 50-60 emergency calls each month. When he receives a late-night call, he jumps out of bed and races to the scene so that he can support the patient before an ambulance arrives.

Josh first began volunteering with Magen David Adom as an 18-year-old yeshiva student and resumed his work with the organization following his army service.

Josh has delivered nine babies and, on multiple occasions, has been among the first medics to arrive at the scene of terror attacks. This year, Josh will begin medical school at the Cyprus campus of St. George's University of London, a British program that is partnered with Tel Hashomer Hospital in Ramat Gan, where he will complete his final two years of schooling. Once Josh and his wife return from Cyprus, he is looking forward to raising a family and practicing medicine in Israel.

“When it comes to dealing with medical issues in Israel, politics and religion don’t matter. In the Israeli medical field, everyone is treated equally.”

24

LIVING ISRAEL

ADAM DAVIS, 27 Israel’s National Football Team Before studying at a yeshiva in Israel, Adam Davis had never played football. But once he discovered a local flag football team, he found himself playing a few times a week.

As a student in Bar Ilan University, Adam joined the Ramat Hasharon Hammers, an Israel Football League tackle team, which is 90% native Israeli and 10% Olim. There, Adam developed his skills and became one of the team’s managers.

Three years later, Adam was invited to try out for Israel’s National Football League, which would compete—for the first time ever—in Madrid to qualify for the European Championship. Adam was thrilled to learn that he made the cut, and even more thrilled when his team won the game.

“It wasn’t just incredible to have the opportunity to compete in an international football game. It was amazing to wear a uniform with the Magen David, to sing Hatikvah on the field in Spain, and to represent Israel internationally in the sport I love.”

SAM CHESTER, 30 China/Middle East Expert During his first stint in China through a US State Department language learning program, Sam Chester told the group that his journey to China was fueled by a passion for Israel. As a college student, Sam was curious about the many ways that Israel and the Middle East could play a role in China’s expanding global influence. Sam went on to explore his interest by working for Chinese companies in Beijing and the Gulf States, and then by earning a graduate degree in China and Middle East Studies and International Economics from Johns Hopkins University.

After making Aliyah and serving in the Israeli army, Sam was hired by Clarity Capital, a global investment firm, to be a project manager and China analyst. Sam speaks about China and Middle East relations around the world, including at a US government-sponsored event in Washington and at universities in Haifa, New York and Shanghai. He believes that Israel can serve as a bridge between the US and China, this century's superpowers, nurturing collaboration rather than conflict.

“Like the pioneers who met the challenge of setting up agricultural communities in Israel, my generation has an opportunity to address contemporary challenges, including positioning Israel on the global stage. As someone who is passionate about China and the Middle East, I decided to come to Israel with my skillset and find platforms to make a difference.”

RACHEL SCHONWALD, 30 Co-Founder of Kol Oleh While preparing to vote in the Tel Aviv municipal elections, Rachel Schonwald found that she was having a difficult time accessing the different parties’ platforms. Most of the parties didn’t translate their materials into English, which meant many Olim couldn’t understand all the nuances of the political system. Rachel, who had worked in the US political arena, knew that in order to make a difference in her new country, she needed to make sure she could effectively participate.

Together with a group of Olim, including her husband, Ben, Rachel helped found Kol Oleh, an organization that created a municipal election voter guide, translated all election material into English, and organized a debate. On the day of the election, Rachel and her co-founders watched the Kol Oleh website’s traffic skyrocket, as Olim dove into the material in order to make informed decisions.

“In Israel, starting something new is a real possibility. There’s a built-in community here, which helps you understand what people really want and then access that.”

LIVING ISRAEL

25

ZOE JURKOWSKI, 23 Co-Founder of Twenty4Six While studying interactive communications at IDC Herzliya, Zoe Jurkowski realized that in Israel, work experience was more valuable than grades. As a new immigrant with no prior professional connections, Zoe complemented her studies with social media marketing positions at various startups. She soon realized that she had a knack for the work, and when her family friend, Danny Kaplan, asked her to take on similar projects for a California-based startup, Zoe agreed.

The two launched Twenty4Six, an agency that creates strategic partnerships between US brands and Israeli startups. With US brands trying to be more and more innovative, Twenty4Six finds Israeli startups that are developing tools and technologies that meet each company’s needs. Some of the brands Twenty4Six is currently scouting Israeli startups for include GoPro, MasterCard, Red Bull, Sony, and Toyota.

“Everyday, I’m exposed to amazing innovation coming out of Israel.

We’re putting Israel on the map for top US brands and giving Israeli startups a higher chance of succeeding.”

26

LIVING ISRAEL

Zoe (right) meets EMC Ventures Principal Investor Steven Katz and TheHive by Gvahim Accelerators Director Patricia Lahy outside an event in Tel Aviv during innovation week this summer.

CHAIM SELIGMAN, 26 Israel Model UN When Chaim Seligman was 16, he was walking in his Florida neighborhood when a few guys attacked him. While recuperating in bed, Chaim decided that whatever he chose to do, he was set on living a meaningful life. This decision led him to volunteer as a medic with Magen David Adom, to serve as a sharpshooter in the Israeli army, and to represent Israel’s team at Model UN conferences around the world.

In conferences from Bratislava to Barcelona, Chaim wore a three-piece suit and his kippah, often fielding questions about what it was like to be Jewish and live in Israel, long after he returned home. During Operations Protective Edge and Cast Lead, Chaim received emails from friends in France, Spain, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, who asked him about his perspective on the conflict and then posted the articles he sent them on their Facebook feeds.

“It’s been incredible to defend Israel on a person-to-person level and to show people that Israel is not as it appears in the media.”

BRIANNA PEREZ, 23 Assistant Producer of the Jerusalem Jazz Festival While a student at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Brianna Perez began producing music festivals both locally and in Latin America. Through her work, she connected with Israeli artists who were interested in collaborating on similar festivals in Israel. Brianna, who had spent a year studying at the Rimon School of Music in Ramat Hasharon, knew that she wanted to return to Israel and to help to set the groundwork for the Jerusalem Jazz Festival immediately after making Aliyah.

As the assistant producer of the 2016 Jerusalem Jazz Festival, the team plans to bring international jazz musicians from all over the world to perform in Israel’s capital city, and to create music education workshops for at-risk Israeli youth.

Brianna hopes that the festival will help connect Israel’s diverse people through the common language of music.

“Jerusalem is an international destination with tons of cultural events. Getting to bring a jazz festival to Jerusalem is a dream come true.”

LIVING ISRAEL

27

How Olim are Transforming Israel’s Religious Communities

T

he pioneer spirit is alive and well in Israel, with new religious communities emerging from the north to the south.

Formed by new Olim who come to Israel with a dream, these communities seek to broaden the scope of religious life in Israel and recruit members who share their vision. Read about three communities that are changing the face of Israel’s religious tapestry.

Minyan Shivyoni board meeting in a Tel Aviv café to plan activities for the year ahead.

28

LIVING ISRAEL

Picture: courtesy of Neve Chabad

seudot (feasts) and Yom Haatzmaut barbecues for soldiers at nearby bases.

“If you want to take part in building something meaningful in Eretz Yisrael, Karmiel may be the place for you,” said Rabbi Ephraim. “Here, every person counts and each person helps draw another Jew like himself.”

TEL AVIV MINYAN SHIVYONI

KARMIEL YOUNG ISRAEL When Rabbi Ephraim Schwartz made Aliyah with Nefesh B’Nefesh in 2010, he moved directly to Karmiel, one of Israel’s largest northern cities. There, he hoped to create a synagogue that functioned as a community center and not just a place for davening. Most importantly, in the diverse city, he was looking to attract people from all walks of life.

He founded Karmiel’s Young Israel Synagogue, which, on a typical Shabbat, brings 50-60 people together, including American Olim, Charedi men studying in kollel, Sephardim, Ashkenazim, religious Jews, and secular Jews.

Having previously lived in Jewish communities that ranged in size from Iowa to Seattle to Virginia, Rabbi Ephraim finds meaning in creating multifaceted Jewish communities.

“I believe that we can all learn from each other, and the more we bring people together, the better off we all are,” said Rabbi Ephraim.

Since 2010, 25-30 Oleh families have moved to Karmiel and joined its Young Israel community. Though he works as a full-time tour guide, Rabbi Ephraim has been instrumental in launching community events, including Purim

Long known as a secular city, Tel Aviv has experienced a religious revival in the past few years, with alternative prayer services popping up on its beaches, in its once-empty shuls, and in people’s homes.

One of these minyanim is Minyan Shivyoni Tel Aviv, an “open, traditional, and egalitarian community” that hosts Kabbalat Shabbat and Maariv services twice a month, followed by a monthly vegetarian potluck Shabbat dinner in young people’s apartments. Founded by a group of American Olim in 2012, the Minyan Shivyoni attracts a wide range of people every other week.

“Tel Aviv attracts people from all religious backgrounds—and many who don’t define themselves as religious, but are still looking for a meaningful Shabbat experience,” said Shana Krakowski, a Minyan Shivyoni board member who made Aliyah with Nefesh B’Nefesh in 2003. “What keeps people coming back is its fun and open atmosphere.”

Since its launch, Minyan Shivyoni has expanded to host Shavuot learning events, Purim megillah readings, and a weekly minyan so that its community members could say Kaddish in an egalitarian setting.

“I’m very happy to be part of a minyan that is breaking the stereotype of Tel Aviv as a secular city, and showing that it is full of diverse people looking for diverse ways of expressing their religion,” said Shana. “In Tel Aviv, you don’t need to choose your affiliation.

You don’t need to fit into any one box.”

NEGEV NEVE CHABAD While growing up in Chabad communities in England and Canada, Mendy and Bruria Efune were taught to help others find ways to become closer to Judaism. When they made Aliyah in early 2014 with Nefesh B’Nefesh, they planned to continue this work in Israel.

Together with the Or Movement, they developed the idea for Neve Chabad, a welcoming community in the Negev, which would be home to a five-star resort centered on Jewish learning.

Visitors to the resort would spend their days getting pampered at the spa, eating top-notch cuisine, and participating in hands-on Jewish experiences. Neve Chabad would especially draw middle-aged singles and couples, who want to study Torah but do not have the flexibility to enroll in a seminary or yeshiva.

“More and more people are coming to Israel who want to connect with the land and witness Judaism in real life,” said Mendy. “At Neve Chabad, they’ll be able to learn anything they want to—in a relaxing atmosphere.”

According to the Efunes, the community surrounding the resort is crucial to its success. Now gathering in Be’er Sheva, they are seeking young Chabad families who are ready to work hard and dedicate themselves to others. So far, the community includes 13 families.

"The opportunity to learn in this kind of environment is something that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world," said Mendy. "Ultimately we want to give more people the ability to get closer to their roots in Israel, the center of the world."

Experience life in Israel’s North!

Speak to a NBN Go North expert at gonorth@nbn.org.il

LIVING ISRAEL

29

8 New Arrivals MEET 8 OF ISRAEL’S NEWEST CITIZENS

Looking to make Israel your home?

Speak to an NBN Aliyah Advisor to start planning your Aliyah. Contact getstarted@nbn.org.il

SUE FRIEDMAN Born and raised in Germany, Sue Friedman was only 10 years old when she began collecting money for Israel with Habonim. When she was 13 years old in 1938, her family moved to Queens, though she remained focused on getting to Israel. It wasn’t until 1964 when she and her late husband, distinguished professor Gerald Friedman, visited Israel for the first time. Sue was enchanted, and thanks to his profession, they returned often. With two daughters, seven grandchildren, including Member of Knesset Rachel Azaria, and 29 greatgrandchildren in Israel (though plenty more in the USA), 91-year old Sue made the decision she’s wanted to make all her life. Now, she lives in Ra'anana

30

LIVING ISRAEL

in an independent living community which she loves, surrounded by many of her grandchildren, as well as new friends.

“Making Aliyah has been something I’ve wanted to do forever. Every time I left Israel, I used to cry and every time I came back, I was happy. It was clear where I wanted to be, and now I couldn’t be happier.”

INNA URETSKAYA Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Inna Uretskaya was surrounded by Judaism daily, though Israel was rarely mentioned. When her Birthright opportunity came along in 2011, it was the first time Inna truly connected with Israel. Since then, she’s traveled back

and forth, finding reasons to return and once even staying for seminary. It was then that she met a wonderful Israeli, and decided to follow both her love of Israel and her Israeli love to make Aliyah. Inna hopes to settle in Tel Aviv and continue her marketing career.

“Israel makes me feel as if I’m home.

It’s a totally different feeling than being anywhere else in the world. There is such a strong spiritual connection simply because of the essence which exists here.”

ARIELLA AND BARUCH HALEVI A Conservative Rabbi and a yoga teacher living outside of Boston, Baruch and Ariella began yearning for a better way to connect to their Judaism. They had been toying with the idea of Aliyah for years, and finally decided that it was time to go. With their dream of moving to a good Jewish community in the mountains, the pair and their four children moved to a small community in the Central Galilee. Baruch began consulting for travel agencies, creating unique spiritual content, and redefining experiences for tourists. Ariella hopes to become a teacher and continue her Jewish yoga lessons.

“We’re on the same page, even our fouryear-old. All of us realize this is the place we need to be. It’s peaceful and beautiful. Kids knock on our door, they run around free. It’s been amazing to get the warm welcome we were hoping for.”

ADINA KARPUJ BORTZ Originally from Chile but raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Adina grew up listening to Israeli music and reading Hebrew newspapers at breakfast. She was raised with Israel constantly on her mind, and because of this, making Aliyah wasn’t a question of ‘if’ but of ‘when.’ She knew she wanted to fully integrate herself into Israeli culture, and upon high school graduation, she decided to draft into the Israel Defense Forces. Adina joined Garin Tzabar, which offers support and guidance

to young people who want to join the IDF, and is currently serving her new country.

“Everything feels surreal and I feel like I’ve been given an enormous gift. I don’t feel like I’ve left home, but like I am home.”

RACHEL AND DAVID LESHAW Before they got married two years ago, Rachel and David had a frank conversation about their future. The couple wanted to raise a family, and they both agreed that it only seemed right to do it in the Jewish homeland.

Two years later, their plan came to fruition and, along with their fourmonth-old baby Yehoshua, they have made Aliyah. The couple has settled in Efrat with Rachel’s parents, who visited Israel six years ago and never left. The young couple is looking forward to finding their own success—David in the tech marketing field and Rachel, who is studying to become a Yoetzet Halacha (a Halachic authority), within Israel’s women’s learning revolution.

“Because Israel is the only Jewish homeland, there’s a feeling of responsibility for what goes on here.

What we grow here belongs to us, and that matters. Here we have the chance to not just be intellectuals and focus on our relationship with books, but to establish roots and feel truly connected to the land.”

ANDREW ACKER The only time Andrew Acker had been to Israel was for his Bar Mitzvah. A decade later, he graduated from MIT and knew he wanted to experience Israel as an adult. With a mechanical engineering degree and a passion for basketball, Andrew discovered the perfect opportunity. Only 11 days before he was meant to fly, he signed on to join the Israeli Basketball League and is now playing for the team in Shoham.

Eventually, Andrew wants to become an orthopedic surgeon, but for now, he’s immersing himself in Israeli culture and loving every minute of it.

“Before I moved into my apartment in Tel Aviv, I needed a place to stay. One of the team managers took me in, and was feeding me, driving me around, and was so hospitable in every way. Everyone is so welcoming. Even now that I’m in my apartment, I’m spending Shabbat with his family, who has become like my family in Israel.”

ARI BAR SHAIN Growing up in a religious Zionist household, Ari Bar Shain studied at the Fuchs Mizrachi School, spent summers at Camp Stone, and was a big player in Bnei Akiva. It was no surprise that Ari would make Aliyah. Having just graduated high school, Ari joined the Garin Tzabar program. Ari is dedicated to playing an active role in the Jewish state and making a positive impact on Israel’s future.

“I have an opportunity to bring much more than just one person to our homeland. I get to chart a new course for my descendants, and to alter the trajectory of my offspring. My kids will grow up in Israel and will feel the passion, idealism, unity, and fulfillment of living here.”

YAEL AND DORON OHEL Living on opposites coasts didn’t matter to Yael from Boston and Doron from California. When a mutual friend and a well-timed weekend in California connected them, they hit it off and became a bi-coastal couple. Both had a feeling that Israel would be their final destination and after getting married, settling on the West Coast, and having three children, Yael and Doron were ready to connect with a slower pace of life and a new community–in Israel.

“We were looking for more meaning in our lives, and we loved the tradition of Shabbat. We wanted our week to revolve around it, to celebrate the music, to bask in the community aspect, and to practice Judaism in our own authentic way.”

LIVING ISRAEL

31

What to Expect on

DAY 1 OF ALIYAH E

very Oleh lands in Israel with the same three essentials–a desire to live in Israel, a personal story, and plenty of luggage. Read on to meet the Fleischmann family and explore what happened during their first day of Aliyah.

LET’S DO IT With one glance at the blueprint, real estate professional Yakov Fleischmann knew this wasn’t just another building plan. In an almost surreal moment of clarity, he saw the house his family was going to live in after making Aliyah.

Uncertain when that would actually be, he and wife Estee seized an opportunity to create the life they had always wanted for their family. The couple met at Camp Stone back in 1987, got married 13 years ago, and has shared the same dream of living in Israel since childhood.

When Yakov and Estee were asked to become full-time directors of Camp Stone, their new path was set and the journey was solidified.

On July 27, 2015, the magnificent seven returned home.

“There is nowhere else we’d rather be.”

32

LIVING ISRAEL

TO THE AIRPORT WE GO The Fleischmann family had spent the summer at Camp Stone before making the move. In camp tradition, Yakov and Estee prepared t-shirts for the family, which listed all their past trips to Israel, building up to the final one-way flight to the land of milk and honey.

It was emotional to leave and thrilling to think about the adventure which lay ahead.

BEFORE THE FLIGHT With over 20 pieces of baggage and five kids in tow, the Fleischmann team eagerly began their journey through the airport. Once they said goodbye to their baggage, they felt a sense of relief.

As they inched closer to getting on the plane, excitement began to set in.

ON THE FLIGHT Half the seats on the plane were taken up by Olim. Already amazed at the bond such a large group of strangers shared, the travelers chatted about everything.

There was an overall feeling of connection, despite how different they each were.

“We just know it’s exciting to be with friends from all over the world, contributing to the Jewish world.”

LIVING ISRAEL

33

LANDING IN ISRAEL All the Olim were asked to wait together before exiting the plane.

That’s when the feeling truly hit the Fleischmanns; they had arrived in their new home! Once on the ground, they received a tremendously warm greeting. Festive feelings of celebration were in the air.

“There’s no question—I’ve never felt so supported. Nefesh B’Nefesh made sure to let us know that what we’re doing as Olim is sometimes hard, but important and truly valued.”

PASSPORT CONTROL There was no waiting in the foreigners’ line this time. Instead, the new Olim lit up when they saw an Olim line, just for them. The Fleischmanns discovered just how small the Jewish world is when they ran into their close friends from Cleveland who were visiting. This unexpected dose of familiarity helped boost the family fun.

A LONG JOURNEY

“We set them up to love Israel, to share in our Zionist dream—to appreciate the excitement, the energy, the beauty, the inspiration, the challenges. We talked about it a lot.”

34

LIVING ISRAEL

The next stop was Misrad Haklita (Ministry of Absorption), where Olim met one-on-one with advisors who answered their questions, and received the first installment of Sal Klita (financial assistance for Olim) and a Post-Aliyah guide. Met with balloons, snack bags, coloring books, and more treats, they were struck by the familyfriendly atmosphere. The room was filled with people from every cultural background, all sharing in this journey of Aliyah, a true bonding experience.

Besides the flight, it was the longest part of the trip—but they walked out with their Israeli citizenship!

“It felt surreal, and the memory is still foggy. We were so in the moment and enjoying every minute. We couldn’t believe we had made it.”

STEPPING ONTO THE SOIL With disbelief, the magnificent seven left the airport. Unexpectedly, friends from their new community in Efrat greeted the Olim. Surrounded by people they had met through all walks of life, from New York to France, they understood just how significant making Aliyah is—not only for their family but for the Jewish people as a whole.

“As a young adult, I remember stepping off the plane and immediately kissing the ground. When I had the opportunity to do the same after making Aliyah, it was a very powerful moment for me. To think about our forefathers who didn’t make it here, and for me to have the honor to step onto this soil as a citizen makes me feel so connected to the land.”

THE HOMECOMING The elated Fleischmann crew and their 26 pieces of luggage warranted a minibus for transport. Pulling into their neighborhood, the family was met again with their new community of friends, who gathered to celebrate their arrival with signs, pizza, singing, and joy.

A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE “There is nowhere else we’d rather be.

Of course, it’s an adjustment. I still don’t know where I’m going to buy my food, and we don’t have a routine just yet. We just know it’s exciting to be with friends from all over the world— contributing to the Jewish world.”

“It’s not 1950 anymore but you feel like a pioneer. You feel like you’re a part of something in the development. It’s a privilege to own a piece of Eretz Yisrael.

I’m so happy to be a part of this.”

TECHNION INTERNATIONAL

Learn at one of the world’s leading institutes for innovation in science & technology Undergraduate Programs BSc in Mechanical Engineering Robotics, Control, and Dynamical Systems

Want to learn more about first steps after Aliyah? To hear more about NBN services in Israel, contact postaliyah@nbn.org.il

BSc in Civil Engineering Construction Management, Water Resources and Environment First Year in Engineering Launch your first academic year in English with the option of transferring to academic tracks offered in Hebrew For more information: apply@int.technion.ac.il

36 Hours with a

Doctor in Israel’s South W

ith her love for children and desire to fix things that hurt, it was natural for Dr. Vika Ioffe to become a pediatrician. It was only during graduate school, when she starting spinning beats as a DJ in local Detroit clubs, that she truly became attuned to her natural ability and love for individual beats. Hooked by musical and heart rhythms alike, her path steered into cardiology. Now, Dr. Vika is a pediatric cardiology fellow, a mother, a teacher, a former DJ, an Olah, and a superwoman.

Toting a flexible, forward-thinking attitude and a genuine desire to create a better world, Dr. Vika made Aliyah in 2010 and is now making an immense impact on the southern region of Israel. Having a specialist on hand is a substantial game changer, and having Dr. Vika, who was recently honored with an award for teaching excellence, is exceptional.

Together with the other two cardiologists in the Negev, the goodhearted team grasps a strong sense of responsibility for continued education.

Soroka Medical Center is the only hospital in the south with a pediatric cardiology branch, and thanks to Israel’s medical advancements, is at the forefront of prenatal screenings and diagnosis. With guaranteed action and endless learning opportunities, the doctors host a teaching program for local and international medical students.

36

LIVING ISRAEL

“I’m direct and comfortable with my patients, just like I am with the students. It’s more than just learning medicine. Soroka is a special environment, where close relationships are formed between patient and doctor,” said Dr. Vika.

Acknowledging the significant impact that Dr. Vika and other medical specialists have on the southern community, Nefesh B’Nefesh, backed by the Knesset, launched a program collaborating with trained specialists searching for an opportunity to make a difference in Israel. By providing a soft landing for educated, Zionist doctors, an acute need is being filled on all fronts.

“We’re pioneering a new frontier of medicine and we’re making it sustainable for trained and educated American doctors to join. Just one doctor can create a transformative effect on the entire southern region,” shared Doreet Freedman, Nefesh B’Nefesh’s Director of Strategic Partnerships.

Dr. Vika is at the forefront of understanding what one person is capable of bringing to the team, and to the entire Negev. There’s a need for medical care and, for every minute she spends with a patient or student, she feels the significance from all sides.

“Having the ability to practice what you love and be directly impactful is not only fulfilling—but fulfills a need for a population that deserves high quality healthcare.”

Take a peek into 36 hours of Dr. Vika’s life below. This superwoman moves at the speed of light in both her professional and personal life—and she balances it all without skipping a beat.

THURSDAY 5:30 AM

Wake up. Get ready for the day. Organize. Clean. Make the girls lunch. Wake up Naomi, 6 ½, and Roni, 5, for school. They ask for four braids each today. I ask them to compromise because Mommy needs to make it to her teaching session on time. They go for two each and we are out the door.

8:00 AM

Head into Soroka and meet my nine pediatric students for rotations. Quick, must stop in the pediatric intensive care unit for an urgent call. The patient agrees to being observed by the students. They always do. I have to work, the students have to learn; everyone wins. Our patient was born with a congenital heart defect. Echo, ultrasound, explanation, check.

Mom and baby are okay for now. Before I can leave, she asks how my kids are doing too. Continue to the clinic until the next urgent call.

1:30 PM

Lunchtime! Today, we’re short on time. Thankfully, our Soroka staff goes above and beyond their duties. Every morning, one of the cleaning women cuts up vegetables and prepares big bowls of salad. She sees how hard we work and wants to help. With the bread and cheese the hospital supplies, we can thankfully grab a quick bowl of fresh and delicious food.

2:00 PM

Ready to hit the neonatal intensive care unit for more consultations. A Bedouin woman comes in with her newborn baby who was born with a congenital defect. She wasn’t able to come in sooner without male supervision. The desert has taught us to welcome all surprises. We were prepared and conducted the necessary surgery.

4:00PM

That came quick! It’s time to pick up the girls. Naomi asks if she can invite a friend over, so of course Roni does too. My open door policy means we drive home as a car full of girls– and Naomi finished her homework, so we’re good to go. We don’t have a TV, so today we kareokoed our hearts out!

8:00 PM

Bedtime for the girls means quiet time for me. Today, like every day at work, happens at such a crazy pace. I naturally reflect on today’s cases, double over my actions, and continue my research.

10:00 PM

Now it’s time to relax. I reminisce over my old playlists from graduate school in Detroit. From Mizrahi to Italian and everything in between, I unwind listening to a different kind of beat until I fall asleep.

LIVING ISRAEL

37

FRIDAY 7:00 AM

The day I get to sleep in. It’s a more laid back morning. I wake the girls and treat them to something they love. We make French toast and I drop them off at school. I head into the Be’er Sheva shuk and stop by my meat guy and my produce guy, and then pick up the girls’ cake order for the week. Last week was crumb cake. This week, they choose chocolate cake with cherries on top.

12:45 PM

Pick up the girls from school and we go for a nature walk in the forest nearby.

We take the bus home and run into a patient's mother, who I haven’t seen in awhile. She warmly greets me and I do the same, asking her where she’s been.

She tried to make an appointment but didn’t get a call back. I place her in my calendar right then for next week.

A deeply blessed ‘Shabbat Shalom’ is delivered and we part ways.

4:00 PM

Clean up, clean up, everybody everywhere. My girls and I prepare for Shabbat. The Moroccan fish is slowly simmering. My girls love this. I was born in Latvia, raised in America, speak Russian, English, Hebrew, and am learning Arabic to better communicate with our Bedouin population— but still make the best Moroccan food.

7:00 PM Go South with NBN and receive employment assistance, social programming, ongoing staff support, and financial grants. Speak to an NBN representative to find out more. Contact gosouth@nbn.org.il

38

LIVING ISRAEL

Three stars are out. We light candles and bring in Shabbat. We eat, read, sing, and relax. I take time to reflect and hope for no urgent cases this weekend.

If so, it would still be a learning opportunity, and the Soroka staff is my family. We genuinely care about one another and once you’re in the circle of trust, it’s the pure team effort and desire to help which makes it a very special place.

Thinking of making aliyah?

Make Meuhedet your healthcare provider and enjoy the best medical coverage in Israel.

With expert doctors, nationwide coverage and extensive services, Meuhedet is the perfect choice for your whole family.

Many of our doctors are native English speakers, so you’ll feel right at home.

Feel at home with Meuhedet Because Meuhedet understands what you need

‫ אנגלית בצבע‬- ‫ לוגו‬2.7

‫ פרוצס‬- ‫לוגו מאוחדת אנגלית‬

972+036152604

CMYK

*3833

meuhedet.co.il

ARIANNA RICHTON, 9

ARI FEIGLIN, 9

My favorite part of the summer in Israel is going to Camp Ema. It’s crazy.

We go to the pool and museums. Once we got shpritzed by the sprinklers.

It was so hot that we were soaking.

I love living in Israel because when my parents first told me, I thought it would be like vacation. I really like that we can walk places and it doesn’t take so long to get around.

SHUA GOLUBTCHICK, 9

ELIORA GOLD, 7

I love living in Israel because of the shoko (chocolate milk). When we first got here, I was allowed to have it three times a day, but now we're only allowed to drink it on Shabbat.

I love living in Israel because my favorite place is the Kotel on Yom Yerushalayim! Plus, I’m excited about our new baby and our first native-born Israeli!

SHIRA AND AZRIEL JAVARSKY, 6

EITAN FROHLINGER, 7

We love living in Israel because it’s the land we should be in and we're closer to the Kotel. And our favorite thing to do is ride camels!

My favorite place to be in Israel is everywhere because there are a lot of nice places. I really like the airport because you can watch the planes landing.

ELISHA ERDFARB, 6

BOAZ SCHARLAT, 5

I love living in Israel because it's the land of peace, and I can run out of the house and play with my friends. Also, it’s really funny when there are donkeys walking on the side of the street.

I love living in Israel because of the beautiful weather and people. Funny things happen too, like when I saw a cat eating a slice of pizza.

40

LIVING ISRAEL

Pictures: courtesy of the families.

Why 8 Olim Kids Love Israel