The month of May sets in at Habo
As the cold front sets in, Habo has been buzzing with activity. We’ve participated in many important community events with madrichim present and active at each one, reaffirming our deep roots within the community.
We hosted an incredible seminar over Chol Hamo’ed Pesach in April for our oldest age group of Channichim and the youngest age group of Madrichim at the campsite. Over 40 Channichim had a blast, engaging in thought-provoking activities, extreme obstacle courses, and building new friendships. Additionally, we ran a programme called Shlav Bet for Madrichim aged 19-20.
We look forward to hearing back from our group of Madrichim who have embarked on the ‘Kaleidoscope’ programme in Israel. In addition, Shorashim is happening soon, and our grade 10 Channichim are excited to embark on their trip to explore their roots in Europe and Israel. Aleh Vehagshem
YAEL DUCHEN
What’s up, Bnei Akiva?
Over the past month, Bnei Akiva has been buzzing with activity, bringing ruach, connection, and creativity to every corner of the community.
Our Purim carnival was colourful and festive, with games, treats, and fun for all ages. Soon after, our madrichim came together for an inspiring Shabbaton to reconnect and recharge through Torah and meaningful discussions.
Mini Mach weekend offered chanichim an unforgettable experience. With action-packed tochniot, meaningful tefillah, epic water slides, and Putt-Putt, it was a weekend of fun and spiritual growth—a chance to step away from routine and embrace the energy and values of Bnei Akiva.
We also created beautifully designed Pesach haggadot and distributed them to shuls across the community, adding a Bnei touch to every Seder table. Filled with messages of Zionism and connection to Am Yisrael, they engaged the whole family.
After a month filled with energy, purpose, and pride, we’re excited to keep the momentum going as we head into the next chapter of the year together.
EDEN LIPSHITZ, Chairwoman Bnei Akiva
Historic visit: 100th Grand Aleph Godol visits
Dan Mezistrano, the 100th Grand Aleph Godol, recently made a historic visit to BBYO South Africa – the first visit of its kind since 1981. The trip held special meaning for Dan, whose mother was born in Johannesburg and attended the same school as many current BBYO teens.
During his visit, Dan immersed himself in the BBYO South Africa experience. He connected with Alephs and BBGs, joined in chapter programs, and participated in meaningful conversations with local leaders and volunteers. His insights and guidance, drawn from global BBYO leadership, were well received and left a lasting impact.
The visit energised local chapters and inspired newly elected Chapter Boards. Dan was deeply impressed by the passion, resilience, and strong Jewish identity of South African teens, noting how their dedication reflects BBYO’s mission in action.
This milestone re-established a vital connection with the international BBYO community and laid the groundwork for ongoing collaboration. As Dan continues his leadership journey, the spirit and strength of BBYO South Africa will remain with him – highlighting that BBYO is truly one movement, one community, and one family.
MARTINE KAWALSKY KATZ, Regional Director, South Africa
May
In May, the leaves begin to fall,
As autumn whispers, soft and tall.
A time of change, the days grow cold,
Yet hearts unite, both young and old.
The winds may shift, the world may bend,
But Jewish souls will always mend.
Through trials faced, we stand as one,
Our strength is found when all is done.
From every land, from every face,
A tapestry of endless grace.
With voices rich, with paths diverse,
Together, we show our true spirit.
In moments dark, when hope seems thin,
We light the way and rise again.
Through hardship, and pain, we stand and rise,
A people strong, with open eyes.
We learn, we grow, we seek to find,
A better path, an open mind.
In every step, we aim to see,
A world more kind, where all are free.
In May’s cool breeze, we find our might,
In unity, we face the fight.
For we are one, in joy or strife,
Jewish hearts beat strong in life.
Netzer South Africa
A-MAY-Zing Diller Discoveries
Keep up to date!
Habonim: website: Habonim Dror SA, Facebook HabonimSA
Netzer: website: Netzer.org.za, Instagram netzer_southafrica
Bnei Akiva: website: Beni Akiva South Africa, Facebook Bnei Akiva Cape Town
SAUJS Western Cape: Facebook @SAUJS, Instagram @saujs_westerncape
Diller Teen Fellows: website: Diller Teen Fellows , Facebook Diller Teen Fellows, Instagram @diller.capetown
BBYO South Africa: Instagram @bbyo.sa, website www.bbyo.org
Find the SA Zionist Federation – Cape Council online:
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, www.sazfcape.co.za
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