JNF Australia Educators Tour 2025/2026
Day 3 – 1 January, 2026
Day 3
Gimel: New Life, New Beginning
In Hebrew, the number three is Gimel, a symbol of new life, renewal, and forward movement. What better way to step into a brand-new year than a day that embodied exactly that? Day 3 of our journey truly set the tone for new beginnings, deeper connections, and hearts wide open as we welcomed 2026 in the most unforgettable way.
We kicked off the day with a FUNtastic New Year’s party right in our hotel lobby. Music, laughter, dancing, and pure joy filled the space. A perfect reminder that celebration is a universal language.
Leaving the north behind, our first stop was the David Friedman Gallery, where art met spirituality. Through his breathtaking work, we learned more about Kabbalah and the deeper meanings behind Hebrew letters and numbers. It felt grounding and inspiring. A moment of reflection that invited us to look inward as much as outward.
Next, we explored the mystical city of Tzfat on a walking tour that transported us through time. Wandering its ancient streets and venturing into underground tunnels over 500 years old, we could almost feel the stories echoing through the stone walls. The magic of Tzfat wrapped itself around us.
One of the day’s most emotional highlights followed: a Klezmer music show inside a beautiful synagogue. The music stirred something deep within us. Emotions ran high, tears were shed, and the bond between us grew stronger in ways words can’t quite capture.
From there, we headed to Julis, a Druze village that welcomed us with open hearts. We gained insight into the Druze community and religion, sharing stories and learning through genuine connection. Lunch at Noor Restaurant was nothing short of incredible. The rich flavours, warmth, and hospitality on every plate. Together, we also helped prepare a meal for soldiers, a moment that will forever stay with us.
Basma taught us one of the most profound lessons of the day: true generosity comes from the heart.
Later, at Beit Itzhak, we participated in resilience workshops, learning about the incredible work being done to support survivors of the Nova Festival and their loved ones.
We boarded the bus and made our way to Jerusalem. The evening was free, and for some of us South Africans, it was our very first shuk experience! Vibrant, noisy, colourful, and alive. A sensory overload in the best possible way.
The meaning of Gimel – new life – truly defined this day. From celebration to reflection, from music to generosity, from resilience to renewal, it was the perfect way to step into 2026. What a way to start the new year!
Lots of love and lekker vibes,
The Fantastic Four: Milena, Soelyge, Sam and Pharon 🇿🇦
From there, we headed to Julis, a Druze village that welcomed us with open hearts. We gained insight into the Druze community and religion, sharing stories and learning through genuine connection. Lunch at Noor Restaurant was nothing short of incredible. The rich flavours, warmth, and hospitality on every plate. Together, we also helped prepare a meal for soldiers, a moment that will forever stay with us.
Basma taught us one of the most profound lessons of the day: true generosity comes from the heart.
Later, at Beit Itzhak, we participated in resilience workshops, learning about the incredible work being done to support survivors of the Nova Festival and their loved ones.
We boarded the bus and made our way to Jerusalem. The evening was free, and for some of us South Africans, it was our very first shuk experience! Vibrant, noisy, colourful, and alive. A sensory overload in the best possible way.
The meaning of Gimel – new life – truly defined this day. From celebration to reflection, from music to generosity, from resilience to renewal, it was the perfect way to step into 2026. What a way to start the new year!
Lots of love and lekker vibes,
The Fantastic Four: Milena, Soelyge, Sam and Pharon 🇿🇦
