9 December 2024
The first Alumni of the European Rebbetzin Enhancement Program | Prague, December 2024
The Conference of European Rabbis held its first Alumni conference for the Alumni of the European Rebbetzin Enhancement Program; they were joined by the 3rd cohort of the program, which started in November 2024.
Over 50 Rebbetzins came to Prague from all over Europe for the Seminar on the topic of “Inspiration,” which was presented by the President of the Programme, Rabbanit Yemima Mizrachi, the Director of the Programme, Rebbetzin Ilana Epstein, and other honoured guest speakers.
Rebbetzin Ilana Banet from Amsterdam expressed her impression: “Blessings are due to those, from near and far, who took up the challenge and brought forth an empowering, educational, and enriching spiritual experience! Such great talent is required to bring to life a unique and diverse program that speaks to each of us personally. The atmosphere was uplifting, united, and cohesive; incredible women from a beautiful tapestry of backgrounds found common ground and understanding alongside truly exceptional speakers. Without a doubt, we are all left equipped with essential tools for our work in the community.”
The Seminar included lectures, panels, and discussions on topics such as Vulnerable groups in the community and women’s empowerment.
Joélle Aflalo, the Vice-Chairwoman of the Board of Patrons of the Conference of European Rabbis, participated in the European Rebbetzin Enhancement Programme.
The participants reported on how joint meetings and shared thinking strengthen them in their work.
Rebbetzin Tehilla Birnbaum from London shared: “The conference in Prague was exactly what I needed to empower me as a Rebbetzin of a community. We came in with passion and energy. I felt rejuvenated from being taken away and pampered from hotel room to food, and all the logistics were handled. Meeting other women in the same role felt like the comfort I needed. Lastly, the sessions were informative and thought-provoking. Thank you, and I look forward to the remainder of the programme!”
It is an essential task of CER to support the Rebbetzin projects.