Regional champions from 26 countries compete for the title of JewQ International Champion in the finale of the International Jewish Knowledge Competition. The high-stakes event culminates a program that reached over 4,000 young scholars across 250 communities—many the only Jewish students in their schools, studying independently amid growing challenges facing Jewish youth.
The finalists on stage today represent the top performers from the world’s largest network of Jewish children who studied independently, often outside of school hours, to master the JewQ “Living Jewish” curriculum. The competition is the centerpiece of the CKids International Shabbaton, the largest summit for Hebrew School families in the world, hosted by CKids — Chabad’s global children’s network, which reaches 125,000 children across 2,500 classrooms and 700 Hebrew Schools.
“In today’s world, there’s no greater gift for a Jewish child than knowing who they are,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Chairman of CKids International. “JewQ gives them that clarity and deep understanding. Win or not, these kids return home, proud, confident, and unshakably connected to their heritage.”
JewQ’s unique format turns Torah education into an engaging challenge. Through a combination of gamified learning and independent study, children absorb key concepts in Jewish life and tradition — often in communities where Jewish education is otherwise limited.
“These aren’t just winners — they’re role models,” said Rabbi Mendel Raskin, Director of JewQ at Merkos 302. “Most of them are the only Jewish kids in their school. JewQ gives them the knowledge and confidence to walk back into their classrooms proud of who they are.”
Ilana, a third-grade finalist from Bogotá, Colombia, arrived in New Jersey with her parents, Saúl and Ana, to represent her country on the international stage. “This weekend is super special,” Ilana said. “I get to learn more about our religion, strengthen my Jewish identity, and have fun celebrating Shabbat with new friends.”
Her parents were equally moved. “Seeing our daughter learn and grow in her faith makes this weekend so special for our family,” said Saúl and Ana. “In a community that is shrinking in size, this opportunity has given us pride, hope, and a sense of connection.”
Francine Venit, attending from Delaware with her daughter Yacova, described the experience as affirming. “This is a chance for me to watch the fruits of my efforts as a parent grow, and also to watch my daughter cultivate her own growth,” she said. “She brought the JewQ program to Delaware and is proud of her own accomplishments and those of her friends.”
JewQ is inspired by the educational philosophy of the Rebbe, who emphasized that children are not only future leaders — but leaders today. He taught that a child’s natural competitive spirit and excitement to learn and share knowledge are a powerful force for strengthening Jewish identity.
“The Rebbe believed that even a child’s competitive instinct could be transformed into something unifying and uplifting,” said Rabbi Zalmy Loewenthal, Director of CKids International at Merkos 302. “JewQ brings that idea to life.”
The championship, features a fast-paced quiz format, celebrity guest appearances, and a live segment from Israel. While only the finalists are competing today, their peers — thousands of them — are watching from around the world, many gathered in their local Chabad centers to cheer them on.
“This is where Jewish pride takes root,” said Rabbi Raskin. “Whether they’re onstage or in the audience, these kids are now empowered with knowledge and know they’re part of something bigger than themselves.”
The JewQ International Championship airs live today at 12:00 PM ET.
Watch at Chabad.org/JewQ.
thank you for the update