Thursday morning, 100 resilient young Jewish professionals from across Europe boarded the Brooklyn Bridge Ferry, for an inspirational day in Manhattan, marking the start of the CYP Encounter weekend bringing together 700 young Jews from 100 cities worldwide, to draw strength from the global community.
For many in the Mehut Europe group, the Encounter weekend is their first visit to the United States, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy to face rising antisemitism back home. “In my city, wearing a kippah has become an act of courage, said Jonathan Pachter, a 29-year-old finance professional from Paris. “But seeing successful Jewish professionals here living proudly gives us strength and hope for our communities in Europe”
The inspirational day began with a visit to the United Nations. Standing before the UN’s iconic Isaiah Wall the group was met by Izzy Karten of Israel’s UN Mission, who passionately emphasized the importance of remembering the unique gift of being Jewish, and provided insights into Israel’s diplomatic efforts.
“Connecting with peers who understand and share the same struggles as you is truly empowering,” said Rabbi Zalmen Shimon Springer, Founder and Director of Mehut Europe, the dynamic educational network for Chabad young professionals and students across the continent, that organized the delegation. “Every year, we witness life-changing experiences from this trip. Last year alone, three couples met here and have since married.”
An intimate brunch featuring business executives Ilana Newman and her husband Zach Liebman followed. Alumni of Chabad at Princeton University, they shared with the group how they balance Shabbat observance with demanding corporate careers. The candid converstation resonated deeply with attendees who are early in their careers yet striving to integrate their faith with professional ambitions.
“For those who have doubts about the future, the opening of new CYP chapters across Europe, despite all odds, together with the continuous growth of our European partners, Mehut Europe, is a powerful testament to the resilience of today’s young leaders,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Chairman of Chabad Young Professionals International and Executive Director of Merkos 302. “The unbreakable spirit which has kept our people going for centuries is alive and well.”
The day concluded in Crown Heights with a memorable dinner featuring former NBC journalist Molly Resnick. She recounted her journey to finding Yiddishkeit through Chabad in the 1960s, a story the Rebbe encouraged her to share with others. Her inspiring narrative set the stage for attendees to share their highlights and takeaways of the day, launching the weekend with a deep sense of shared purpose and community.
“From small towns in the Midwest to big European cities, this weekend shows young professionals they are part of a worldwide family,” said Rabbi Beryl Frankel, Director of CYP International at Merkos 302. “Nothing compares to feeling the strength and pride of being connected to something much larger.”
