Tribe, in partnership with Bnei Akiva, hosted over 90 gap year students at an event in the Cardo of the Old City, Jerusalem’s main street 1500 years ago. They were there to meet The Chief Rabbi and 50 rabbis from the UK, many of whom are US rabbis, who were in Israel for the Chief Rabbi’s inaugural Israel mission. Participants came from far and wide as to join together to create a wonderful atmosphere.
The event gave the rabbis an opportunity to speak with their young community members and ask their views on many different topics. When they return to the UK after their gap-year hopefully they will feel more of a connection to their community and leaders and will become fully involved in their community’s future.
David Collins, Tribe Executive Director commented, “This really was an inspirational event which will be the start of these young members’ engagement with their local community. This is truly the most exciting event I have had the privilege to address. These young adults are our future and we look forward to welcoming them in leadership roles in the coming months”.
During the event four students from different programmes had the opportunity to address the crowd and relay their experiences from an amazing year. Gabriella Steinbock, Ethan Ezra, Ayelet Persey and Ethan Phillips, each shared their experiences this year; what they have learnt and how to take what they have learnt and apply it in their lives.
The Chief Rabbi gave an inspiring talk to the crowd, about the importance of Israel and specifically, Jerusalem as the capital city of the Jewish People. He also spoke of the importance of continued involvement with the Jewish community once students returned to the UK.
Rabbi Gideon Sylvester, Tribe’s Israel Rabbi, also addressed attendees. The evening ended with impromptu dancing, making sure that the evening closed on a high.
Gabriella Steinbock said: “Thank you so so much for such a fantastic event! Everyone I have spoken to have only said wonderful things. The food was excellent, the atmosphere was superb - I particularly loved the way the Rabbonim mingled with us on our gap year! (And obviously the opportunity to speak in front of the chief!!!)”.
