In honor of Aliyah Day, the President of Israel awarded repatriates
Aliyah Day is a symbol of unity and resilience
Aliyah Day is more than just a date. This holiday has become a symbol of recognition of the contributions of immigrants who move to Israel every year, strengthening the country’s society and culture. Adopted in 2016, Aliyah Day is celebrated on the day close to the Torah portion Lech-Lecha, when God commanded Abraham to go to the land of Israel. This year it is celebrated on November 8, and given the current challenges for the country, this date takes on special significance.
President of Israel Isaac Herzogwho presented the awards at the ceremony, noted the importance of the contribution of the repatriates: “You represent the dream of many generations. Thanks to you, we become stronger and braver. Israel would not be the same without you.”
Stories of the laureates: how five repatriates are helping Israel in difficult times
The awards ceremony, held at the Presidential Residence, was a highlight of the celebrations. Each of the honorees has a unique story and contribution to society, especially during these challenging times. NAnews talk about each of the laureates, whose stories show how much people who decide to connect their destiny with Israel can mean.
Irena Maman: engineer and volunteer with a closed heart
Irena Mamana repatriate from Ukraine, now living in Rosh Pina, is an engineer in the textile industry. She runs a sewing workshop in Kiryat Shmona. Since the outbreak of war, the workshop has been repairing the uniforms and equipment of IDF soldiers stationed in the Upper Galilee. Every soldier or rapid response unit who needs to put his jacket or backpack in order knows that he needs to turn to Irena. All fighters in the workshop are treated as the most valuable guests.
Irena has temporarily moved to Rosh Pina, but her workshop continues to operate in Kiryat Shmona. Irena Maman helps dozens of families of elderly repatriates who refused to evacuate and remained in the city.
Pavel Ginzburg: innovations in the service of Israeli security
Pavel Ginzburg, who repatriated from the former USSR, heads the department of electrical systems design at Tel Aviv University and collaborates with the country’s defense enterprises. His work includes developing systems to detect enemy aircraft and other hidden targets. These technologies help protect the country in difficult conditions and increase the safety of citizens.
Pavel Ginzburg also attracts new immigrants to his work, allowing them to apply their knowledge and experience in Israel.
Professor Alexander Lerner: doctor, mentor and inspiration
Professor Alexander Lerner, originally from Belarus, is a leading specialist in the field of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation. In peacetime, he works at the Ziv Hospital in Safed, where he develops methods for treating severe injuries. With the outbreak of the war, Professor Lerner voluntarily went to the Soroka hospital to help the wounded. He also participates in international conferences, representing Israel and discussing the current situation with foreign colleagues.
Adriana Folberg-Blum: helping farmers during war
A repatriate from Canada, Adriana Folberg-Blum, immediately after the start of the war, organized groups of volunteers to help farmers harvest their crops. It has attracted volunteers from all over the world, from Taiwan to South Africa, helping to support the country’s agricultural sector during this difficult period. Thanks to her efforts, volunteers return home to talk about the real situation in Israel and strengthen international support.
Ariel Beaton: the volunteer heart of France in Israel
Arielle Beaton moved from France and has been volunteering for many years. She founded the organization Simcha LeChaim, which supports sick children being treated in hospitals. With the outbreak of the war, she began to actively help the evacuees, turning to the Jewish Diaspora for help with housing. Thanks to her initiatives, enough funds were collected to purchase equipment and necessary goods, and support was organized for the families of victims of terror.
The importance of support and cohesion
Today, in difficult times for the country, the Aliyah holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and mutual assistance. Each of the awarded repatriates makes an invaluable contribution to supporting the country. These people, like many other immigrants, continue to build Israel and make it stronger.
Israel values everyone who contributes to society, despite difficulties and obstacles. As President Herzog noted:
“You strengthen not only our country, but also the spirit of the people. Thanks to you, Israel becomes a home for all Jews, no matter where they are.”.
Alexander Khmelnitsky