EnerJew Holds First 5785 Shabbaton in the Carpathian Mountains, Centered on Jewish Heroism

The first EnerJew Shabbaton of the 5785 (2024–2025) season took place recently in Western Ukraine, nestled in the scenic Carpathian Mountains. Sixty energetic Jewish teenage girls from across Ukraine gathered for a weekend of inspiration, unity, and spiritual growth—offering a much-needed break from the ongoing tensions within the country.

The theme of the Shabbaton was Jewish heroism, encouraging participants to join together in bringing more light and goodness into the world through positive actions, thereby hastening the redemption and the rebuilding of the Third Temple.

Throughout the weekend, the girls engaged in hands-on mitzvah experiences and dynamic Torah learning sessions centered on the concept of “Code Hero”—a motivational framework inspiring them to channel their positive energy toward spiritual strength and purpose.

The unique seminar, part of the EnerJew youth movement under the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC), was organized in partnership with the Finger Foundation, Ofek Israeli, the Israeli Ministry of Education’s Heftzibah program, the Jewish Agency for Israel, and the JRNU organization.

The program featured a vibrant mix of activities including uplifting Shabbat meals, thought-provoking lectures, social games, a live broadcast from the Western Wall, and a Q&A session with special guests from Israel. Among the presenters were Rabbi Moshe and Shoshi Weber, Rabbi Itamar and Mussie Wolff, Rabbi Yakov and Mrs. Yakimenko, and Director of EnerJew Ukraine Lena Kovalova.