Chabad Shluchos Hold Conference in Sochi – Four Days of Unity, Renewal, and Inspiration

250 Chabad Shluchos and community leaders from across Russia and the Former Soviet Union gathered in Sochi for a deeply uplifting four-day conference held at the initiative of Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar. The conference, titled “There Is Reward for Your Efforts – A Mission of Gratitude and Joy,” offered a rare opportunity for spiritual growth, connection, and empowerment.

Against the scenic backdrop of the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, the conference was held from 8–11 Cheshvan at the Mantera Resort & Congress. Attendees included emissaries from Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and additional neighboring countries.
The program included lectures, workshops, personal development courses, and Chassidic gatherings with leading educators and speakers from Israel and abroad. Topics addressed the multifaceted roles of female community leaders, from education and community building to personal spiritual development.

A central highlight was a special session with Rabbi Berel Lazar, who engaged in an open discussion with the participants, addressing practical and spiritual matters such as Jewish family life, educational challenges, and halachic issues. Rabbi Lazar offered encouragement and noted, “A Rebbetzin’s power is not only in what she does, but in the light she radiates—in her home, her family, and her community.”

Shabbat was a time of profound joy and elevation. Renowned lecturer, Rabbi Asher Farkash of Argentina, inspired the women with heartfelt talks during meals and led an uplifting Chassidic gathering. Speaking at the closing banquet, he emphasized, “The joy of a Shlucha is her greatest tool to effect real, lasting change in the world.”

The banquet opened with words from Rebbetzin Chana Lazar, who spoke emotionally about the sacred responsibility of maintaining Jewish life across the globe. The evening culminated in an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie, with music and spirited dancing.

The conference was further enriched by the presence of prominent guest lecturers from Israel, who led a wide range of engaging workshops and empowerment sessions. Among the featured speakers were Mrs. Rachel Michaeliashvili, Mrs. Meirav Salkovsky, Mrs. Rachel Bolton, Mrs. Chana Tova Perlman, Mrs. Miriam Gal, and Mrs. Zaldi Bloom—each bringing her own expertise and inspiration. Participants explored timely and practical topics such as “How to Respond When Your Child Is Not Exactly What You Expected,” “My Unique Contribution to the World,” and “The Jewish Formula for Marital Joy.”

Workshops also focused on personal growth and identity, with titles such as “Being Who I Want to Be” and “Creating a Life of Meaning and Joy.” These sessions provided valuable tools and emotional support for the emissaries’ demanding roles. In addition, participants enjoyed creative and interactive workshops, including chocolate-making, makeup, and design—blending inspiration with moments of personal expression and enjoyment.

In parallel, a special program was held for the daughters of the Shluchos, who connected in person with peers they usually meet only online via the dedicated virtual Or Menachem school. The girls enjoyed several days of bonding, learning, trips, and creative activities, building lasting memories and friendships.

The conference was graciously hosted by Sochi’s Chabad Shluchim, Rabbi Shalom Lazar and Rebbetzin Hindi Lazar, who ensured a warm and seamless experience for all participants.