October 17, 2025

Among the many stories within our newcomer community, Hannah Presman Chikiar’s stands out.

October 17, 2025 | 25 Tishrei 5786 | Candle lighting at 5.59 p.m.

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In this moment of fragile peace, we’re called to stand together with renewed strength and unity. On Monday, our Federation, together with the Rabbinical Association of Vancouver, hosted a Community Rally to celebrate the ceasefire deal and the return of the hostages, welcoming over 500 people who stood shoulder to shoulder in support of peace and the safe return of those held captive. As we celebrated, we also held space for the remaining 19 deceased hostages still in Gaza, whose memory stays with us.

As Lana Marks Pulver, our Board Chair, so eloquently shared at the rally: “For two long years, the world felt upside down, truth was twisted, values were inverted, hatred spread where compassion used to live. But now we see clearly—the darkness has been exposed to the light, and that light gives us power, because you can’t fix what you can’t see. And now that we see, we'd better act.”
Watch Lana's full speech here.

Her words captured not only the spirit of the gathering but also the urgency of our collective responsibility. Antisemitism is not over. It affects our families, our schools, our workplaces, and our sense of safety. If you experience an antisemitic incident or hate crime, please report it here. Your voice matters. Reporting helps us measure and combat antisemitism in Canada—it’s how we hold systems accountable and ensure our community is protected.

We also recognize that within our community, there are diverse perspectives on Israel, on its politics, its leadership, and its future. In times like these, unity doesn’t mean uniformity—it means showing up for one another with compassion, curiosity, and respect.
New Greenhouse Dedicated to Ben Mizrachi z"l

Earlier today, the Greenhouse Program at King David High School opened, honouring the memory of alumnus Ben Mizrachi z’l, who was tragically killed on October 7, 2023. Inspired by Ben’s love for food studies and helping others, the program empowers students in Grades 8–12 to grow produce for donation to local organizations like the Jewish Food Bank, promoting sustainability, leadership, and community service. This initiative was made possible through the generous support of the Jewish Community Foundation, Aaron Saks (West Coast Seeds), Ben Zlotnik (Class of 2013), and other dedicated donors.

Raising Her Voice on the Global Stage

Among the many stories within our newcomer community, Hannah Presman Chikiar’s stands out. She arrived in Vancouver from Argentina at age six, and last week, at 16, she represented the International Council of Jewish Women (ICJW) at the Girls Speak Out 2025 event at the United Nations in New York.

She was the only Canadian and the only Jewish girl advocate at the table, a powerful moment of representation and leadership.

Nominated by Vancouver's National Council of Jewish Women Canada (NCJWC), Hannah joined the UN Committee for the International Day of the Girl, helping lead a global, girl-driven event focused on education, climate justice, gender-based violence, and digital equity.

The theme—“We Are Here: Bold, Diverse, and Unstoppable”—echoed her own journey.

From her early years at Richmond Jewish Day School and Vancouver Talmud Torah, to her current studies at King David High School, and her active participation at the Jewish Community Centre, Camp Miriam, CJPAC and Stand With Us, every experience has played a vital role in shaping who she is today. Hannah’s journey is a beautiful reminder of how our community’s support for newcomers can lead to extraordinary impact—not just for individuals, but for the world they go on to influence.

Her story is a powerful reflection of this year’s Annual Campaign theme: It’s Personal—because when we invest in people, we shape futures. Hannah’s voice on the global stage is a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together to nurture, uplift, and believe in its youth. Stories like this remind us of what’s possible. Your gift to the Annual Campaign today can help make more stories like this a reality.
Kol Ha Kavod Hannah!

Welcoming and Supporting Jewish Newcomers

Our local efforts to welcome and support Jewish newcomers have never been more vital. Over the past year, our community has opened its arms to hundreds of new families arriving in British Columbia. Through our Newcomer Program, and in close collaboration with partner agencies, grassroots groups, and dedicated volunteers, newcomers have found guidance, connection, and a sense of belonging as they begin building their lives here.

One of the most heartfelt initiatives has been the Smiley Package project, a partnership between Jewish Family Services, the Moving to Vancouver Israeli group, and Jewish Federation. More than 50 packages filled with groceries were delivered directly to families upon arrival, offering comfort and care during their first days in a new country. What began as a small act of kindness has grown into a powerful symbol of shared responsibility and generosity.

To support long-term integration, we hosted over 15 orientation and employment sessions, reaching more than 250 participants. These sessions, led by community professionals, covered essential topics such as housing, education, employment, financial planning, and healthcare—equipping newcomers with the tools and confidence to navigate life in B.C.

This year also marked the beginning of a new partnership with S.U.C.C.E.S.S., one of Metro Vancouver’s leading settlement organizations. Many newcomers arrive with strong professional backgrounds but face challenges re-establishing their careers. This collaboration is helping bridge that gap, offering tailored support and resources to help individuals reconnect with their professional paths.

Recently, the Annual Newcomers Welcome Event at the Jewish Community Centre brought together more than 100 newcomers and 25 community organizations. The fair-style gathering showcased programs, services, and volunteer opportunities, while newcomers shared personal stories about their journeys.

It was a day filled with connection, storytelling, and the shared joy of building a new life in community.

Looking ahead, our focus remains on accessibility and empowerment. Free online sessions covering essential settlement topics continue to be available, and our Newcomer Hub offers up-to-date resources and event information. To learn more, visit www.jewishvancouver.com/new-to-bc.

Shabbat shalom,