A delegation of young Jewish professionals from Europe explored New York on Thursday morning, marking the start of the CYP Encounter Weekend, the largest global gathering of its kind. By Shabbat, they’ll be joined by more than 1,000 peers from over 100 cities around the world.
The group from Mehut, Chabad’s educational network for young professionals and students across Europe, wasted no time. Within hours of landing, they gathered with Rabbi Nissi Eber at Chabad of the Financial District for brunch with Ralph Herzka, founder and chairman of Meridian Capital Group, who spoke candidly about navigating Jewish identity and tradition in today’s business arena.
For many European young professionals, being openly Jewish at work or in the street requires courage. Antisemitism has risen sharply across the continent, and visible signs of Jewish identity can feel like acts of defiance. In the shadow of hate, this weekend means so much more.
“In my city, wearing a kippah has become an act of bravery,” said Rafael, a 31-year-old Dentist who traveled nearly 4,000 miles from Paris to join. “It’s amazing to see Jews living so openly and proudly, this is something I want to bring back with me.”
After brunch, the group visited the Museum of Jewish Heritage, where they were welcomed by Museum Director, Dr. Paul Radensky, and continued to the 9/11 Memorial site. The day concluded with panoramic views from One World Observatory, the Manhattan skyline sprawling below.
“Year after year, we see the impact this trip creates,” said Rabbi Zalmen Shimon Springer, director of Mehut Europe. “Young professionals arrive feeling isolated in their Jewishness and leave knowing they’re part of something global. The friendships formed here last well beyond the weekend.”
“This weekend gives me a chance to connect with like-minded Jewish professionals from around the world,” said Rudolf Kasper, a participant from Estonia. “I’m looking forward to the inspiring programming and experiencing Shabbos in Crown Heights.”
“We are honored to welcome young Jews from over 100 cities worldwide,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “From CYP chapters across Europe to communities throughout the Americas and beyond, this weekend serves as a lifeline for young Jewish life, globally.”
The Mehut delegation marks just the beginning. Over the next 48 hours, young professionals from across the United States, Australia, South America, and Israel will converge on Crown Heights for the largest CYP Encounter Shabbaton yet.
“We want these young professionals to walk away knowing they’re not alone,” said Rabbi Beryl Frankel, Director of CYP International at Merkos 302, the world’s largest network of young Jewish professionals, “This weekend is about giving them the strength and inspiration to be proudly Jewish wherever life takes them.”
As the European group settles into their accommodations, the anticipation is palpable. A packed weekend of unity, joy, and connection with peers from around the world awaits them.
Really proud of our community for hosting such a large number of young Jewish professionals. And certainly proud of the orchim themselves for recognizing the importance of their Jewish identity. In today’s day and age when so many young people are Jewishly undereducated, or simply choose not to spend enough time in their lives contemplating the fact that The Aibershter is in charge and Torah and Mitzvos are His unique gift to us, seeing a group like this is heartwarming indeed.