A new Chabad seminary for young women Ma’ayan Chai Seminary is set to open in Johannesburg, South Africa, this upcoming month of Elul 5786 (August 2026).
The institution aims to provide a rigorous and inspiring Torah education rooted in Chassidus, while preparing students for lives of leadership, shlichus, and personal growth.
Ma’ayan Chai’s stated mission is to make Torah and Chassidus alive, relevant, and transformative. The seminary seeks to empower students not only to absorb the wellsprings of Torah learning, but to emerge as confident and grounded Jewish women, reflecting the Rebbe’s vision of neshei Yisrael who bring light, kindness, and Yiddishkeit wherever they go.
The seminary is geared toward young women with a strong passion for Yiddishkeit and Chassidus, and a desire for meaningful, inward growth. Its educational philosophy emphasizes developing students who are both pnimiyusdig and emesdig, equipped to represent the Rebbe’s ideals in whichever life path they choose.
The seminary will be led by an experienced leadership team. Mrs. Rebecca Sarchi, Head of Seminary, brings over 40 years of experience in Chinuch, including four decades as Principal of the Chabad Girls High School, and is known for her warm, student-centered approach.
Mrs. Ester Unterslak, Managing Director, is a long-standing member of the Chassidim Shul Board with extensive experience in tzedakah work, fundraising, and communal leadership.
Mrs. Efrat Schochet, Head of Studies and Curriculum Development, is the Rebbetzin of Chassidim Shul and a dedicated Torah educator. Mrs. Chani Zwick, Student Life and Programme Coordinator, brings more than 24 years of experience in Chinuch and community education.
The seminary’s Rov and Menahel Ruchni will be Rabbi Sholom Ber Groner, longtime Rov and Mashpia of Anash in Johannesburg, who will guide the institution’s Chassidic and spiritual development.
Academically, Ma’ayan Chai will offer a comprehensive and text-based curriculum that blends Nigleh, Hashkafa, and Chassidus. Courses will include Chumash, Navi, Ein Yaakov, Hilchos Tznius, and other core Torah subjects, alongside Maamarim, Rashi Sichos, Tanya, and Shaar HaBitachon. The program will draw on the depth of Johannesburg’s Chabad community, utilizing experienced local educators as well as teachers from the broader community.
Community involvement and practical shlichus are central components of the seminary’s vision. Students will participate in shiurim, chavrusa learning, chessed initiatives, youth programming, and outreach efforts, gaining hands-on experience in communal responsibility while developing leadership skills, compassion, and confidence.
Beyond the classroom, Ma’ayan Chai will provide a range of extracurricular and personal development opportunities. These will include leadership training, creative arts, vocational and practical life skills, wellness initiatives, and emotional growth support, with an emphasis on nurturing each student in a holistic manner.
The faculty will include respected educators such as Mrs. Shternie Wineberg, Mrs. Rivky Chaikin, Mrs. Mashi Lipskar, Rabbi Gideon Fox, and Rabbi Nesanel Schochet, among others.
With its opening planned for 5786, Ma’ayan Chai Seminary is poised to become a significant addition to Jewish education in South Africa, strengthening the pipeline of educated, inspired young women prepared for a life of Torah, Chassidus, and shlichus.
Admissions open on 29 December at http://www.maayanchaiseminary.com or email [email protected]
A wonderful addition to Torah centers for chabad girls
Amazing team. Amazing community. Good things ahead pG