Young Jewish Minds Unite: A Weekend of Learning, Connection and Jewish Pride in Argentina

For over 150 Jewish children across Argentina, this year’s CKids Shabbaton and JewQ Championship transformed Jewish learning into an unforgettable journey of academic challenge and cultural discovery.

“My son used to think Jewish learning was boring,” shares Noami, a CKids parent from a Buenos Aires suburb. “Now he comes home excited, quoting facts and eager for the next competition.”

“Each of these children is writing a new chapter in their community’s Jewish story,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302 and Chairman of CKids International which now facilitates JewQ for over 4,000 children in 25 countries and 250 cities worldwide. “We’re nurturing the next generation of proud educated Jews,” he added.

Students from six provinces traveled up to 18 hours to participate, converging on a “Quinta” campground that would serve as both their academic arena and a place of connection. Some families flew across the country, others drove through long stretches of Argentine landscape, all united by a singular purpose: The CKids Argentina Shabbaton and JewQ Championship.

Before the start of the year-long competition, many children had minimal understanding of Jewish traditions. By Sunday, they were eagerly competing, cheering, and sometimes crying with joy as they received their well-earned medals. The championship turned academic achievement into a celebration of identity and community.

“The real magic happens in these moments of unexpected unity,” says Mrs. Etti Silberstein, Co-director of Tzach Argentina. “When children who met just 24 hours ago are applauding for each other, you realize this is about more than competition. These kids discover they’re not alone—that Jewish children across Argentina are part of the same people. When they’re captivated by learning, proudly answering questions, and erupting in joy as they receive their medals, you see the true impact of this program.”

The weekend wasn’t just about academic achievement. Activities focused on teamwork, friendship, and building a sense of community. A trampoline park trip and Shabbos celebrations added adventure to the experience, creating moments of connection that went beyond mere competition.

Local Shluchim from each community played a crucial role, seeing this as an opportunity to deepen their connection with the youth they serve throughout the year. Their presence added a layer of mentorship and guidance to the weekend’s activities.

A powerful moment came when children watched a video about being spiritual ‘soldiers’ to help Eretz Yisroel, inspiring them to take personal commitments to their Jewish identity. Along with souvenirs, they carried home Shema cards and siddurim—tools to continue their Jewish journey and keep the spark of learning alive. 

From just fifty children in 2021, its first year in Argentina the program has now touched hundreds of young lives. But the true measure isn’t in numbers but in the spark of Jewish pride now burning brightly in each child’s eyes. The graduating class was already asking about future opportunities, eager to continue their Jewish learning and connection.

“When’s the next competition?” became the weekend’s most frequently asked question—a testament to the program’s success in making Jewish learning both educational and exciting.

The CKids Shabbaton and JewQ Championship were generously subsidized by the Toledo Family in honor of their mother, Rachel Toledo. 

The program’s success is a testament to the collective efforts of Rabbi Levi and Mrs. Etti Silberstein, Directors of Tzach Argentina; Rabbi Zalmy Lowenthal, Rabbi Chai Kohan, and Rabbi Mendel Raskin of CKids International at Merkos 302; and Rabbi Tzvi Grunblatt, Head Shliach to Argentina, who sponsored and hosted the Shabbaton, attended Sunday’s game show competition, and whose guidance and support underpin the thriving CKids Argentina network. 

Special thanks also go to Sami Naystat, the JewQ coordinator, and to the Shluchim and Shluchos across Argentina who engaged and taught the children throughout the year, helping them reach this milestone.