Photos: Chana Benchimol
‘We Are The Future’ was the theme of the Seminary Chaya Mushka of Tzfas banquet, a statement which plays a significant role in the lives of Chabad teenagers nowadays.
It is a necessity to implant and ingrain this motto into the mindsets of our teenagers, because the teenagers of today will be the Shluchim of tomorrow. If not them, then who? We must constantly ensure they understand the huge role they will hold on the Chabad world of the future.
The banquet was held in Machon Alte’s ballroom. The night opened with a video presentation providing a glimpse into the life of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, followed by the recitation of both the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s Kapitelach.
Dorm counselor Tani Minkowitz addressed the girls on the topic of ‘Taking on the Impossible,’ an interesting glimpse into the idea that we must never convince ourselves we are not capable, because our true capabilities are thirsting to be revealed.
Following the address, the girls were shown a touching video composed by Shaina Liberow, presenting the parents of fellow seminary girls who are on shlichus in over 20 international destinations. The video again exemplified the theme, portraying a group of 50 girls, from over 20 places, yet united with one Rebbe and one goal. This led to an inspiring roll call led by Yael Mekler.
A Shluchos address given over by Ester Masinter (South Africa), describing the circumstances of living a life on Shlichus and the positive outcomes it constantly has. She so vividly related remarkable stories unfolding her secret to staying inspired, whether is be the girl who could be socializing Friday night, but chose to come to Shul, or the modern boy to whom appearance is key, yet wears a yarmulke nonetheless. These people in her community, who slowly but surely commit to yiddishkeit, constantly keep Ester inspired with inspiration she utilizes to inspire them, a beautiful chain reaction.
Later, a tribute to Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka was reflected to the crowd by Chaya Mushka Elmakies (France). Initially chosen because of her namesake, Chaya Mushka took on a different approach and encouragingly told each girl that their connection to the Rebbetzin is just as strong as hers. One shouldn’t become despondent if not lucky enough to merit the Rebbetzin’s name as her own, yet instead, we should all focus on who the Rebbetzin represented and internalize it until we make it our own, therefore enforcing and enabling the greatest connection possible with the Rebbetzin.
Before concluding the night, Shana Beis of Montreal Seminary joined the banquet. Mushky Ezagui (Canada), spoke and reminded the girls how lucky they are to have chassidus and its immense positive impact it holds on the world today. She passionately described the influence Shluchim play in the mundane lives of others and the affect it has for generations to come. Mushky so beautifully concluded with, “We are the Rebbe’s children,” and outlined the role we must play even while dealing with our day to day lives (for example, to constantly have neshek accessible if one knows they will be mingling in a public environment). Mushky’s address holds a relevant message that we all definitely learnt from and connected with.
As a finale to the banquet, a tznius campaign was introduced in loving memory of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, who represented modesty, dignity and self-respect.
“We can only imagine how proud she is of our seminary that carries her name, to be embarking on a 30 day intense journey of a tznius campaign (Project-T) which we know will essentially last a life time,” one of the participants related.
The banquet was organized by Rochel Coleman, Leia Young, Sara Shatnani and Mushka Wolff, with the help of dorm counselors Sara Chanowitz and Tani Minkowitz.
You guys r awesome
for giving our grand-daughter such a wonderful experience in both Ruchniut and Gashmiut!! May they help bring Moshich NOW!!!!!!!
The Shatnani girls are amazing!!!! Changing the world everywhere they go! May you go mchayil el Chayil!
My daughter is enjoying an amazing seminary experience thanks to Mrs. Rosenfeld and her incredible dorm counselors, Tani Minkowitz and Sara Chanowitz! The learning, events, programs & Shabbatons are par excellence!
We have a daughter there this year and we are SO impressed. The learning is very balanced and good. However, I feel that the thing that they excel in this year is the amazing afterschool program. We are also really GRATEFUL to Tani Minkowitz and Sara Chanowitz, the best dorm counselors who give the kids an amazing wholesome experience!
Miss u tonz !
hinda leah i miss you soooooooo much
hope your having a fun/inspirational time !!!!
hugs and kisses
love and misses:)
Some awesome montrealers 🙂
My daughter loves it! We’ve had several daughters at this Sem. She especially loved the trip to Ukraine which was very inspirational! She was really inspired by Mrs. Moscowitz’s stories. She loves her classes with Rabbi Moran, Rabbi Hertzel and Rabbi Friedman! The program above looks amazing as well! Thank you!
Gorgeous set up!!