3 weeks ago

Over 800 Jewish Students from the FSU Arrive in Shanghai for Historic YAHAD Journey

Over 800 Jewish students from across Russia and the FSU gathered in Shanghai for an inspiring journey led by Chabad emissaries and rabbis. This marks the 12th annual trip organized by YAHAD under Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar and the FJC • Read More, Photos

Photos: Akiva Sheinberger

Over 800 (!) Jewish students from across Russia and other former Soviet countries have arrived in Shanghai—China’s most prominent and dynamic metropolis—for a historic and transformative experience.

The trip marks the culmination of a year of immersive and inspiring Jewish study, and began with a spectacular opening event that radiated joy and spiritual excitement. Accompanied by their dedicated Shluchim and community rabbis, the students embarked on a journey filled with vibrant Jewish and Chassidic energy, flowing day and night.

Behind this powerful initiative is YAHAD, the youth organization operating under the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC), led by Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar. This is the 12th annual journey of its kind.

The opening ceremony, held at the Hilton Hotel in Shanghai, brought time to a standstill. With a high-energy host leading the program, the evening was filled with music, unity, and heartfelt emotion, setting the tone for the days ahead.

The event combined world-class hospitality with rich Chinese cultural elements—stunning décor, traditional performances, cutting-edge multimedia, and powerful speeches. Emotional moments, spontaneous dancing, singing, and interactive segments created a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For many students, this journey marks a meaningful reconnection with their Jewish identity after generations of disconnection.

One highlight was a video recap of last year’s trip to Thailand, followed by a humorous and engaging live segment. Rabbi Mendy Wilansky, director of YAHAD, then took the stage to warmly welcome the participants. His passionate words and heartfelt singing brought the room together in song.

This meticulously planned journey reflects months of behind-the-scenes effort. The crowd responded with applause as Rabbi Wilansky recognized the contributions of the Fleishman-Peles production team and the dedicated student leaders making the event possible.

A special guest, Rabbi Shalom Greenberg, head Shliach of Shanghai, delivered an address in English recounting the city’s Jewish and Chabad history during the Holocaust. His words transitioned seamlessly into a powerful multimedia presentation portraying key historical moments, accompanied by the Nigun Shir HaGeulah – Hachayeni Kel, composed by the Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Following the presentation, Rabbi Itzik Gorelik, Shliach and Rabbi of Kazan, invited the Shluchim on stage to join in the Chabad Nigun Nyet Nyet Nikavo, filling the hall with spirited song.

A moving procession followed, as student representatives from YAHAD’s 60 branches proudly marched forward with flags bearing their locations’ names—greeted by cheers from their peers.

Then came a dramatic surprise: an electrifying acrobatic performance captivated the entire crowd and closed the evening on a high note.

As the formal event concluded, students transitioned into late-night Farbrengens, engaging lectures, social games, and bonding activities—preparing themselves spiritually and emotionally for the days ahead in this unforgettable journey of connection, growth, and Jewish pride.