I am a proud Jew because our community truly embodies the Talmudic passage Kol Yisrael arevim zeh ba-zeh (Every Jew is responsible for each other). We truly have a strong sense of solidarity and support for one another.

In Johannesburg where a large portion of South African Jews live, the community is both vibrant and caring and has incredibly well-run organizations taking care of Jewish South Africans through different stages and challenges in their lives. 

Our social welfare organization has an old-age home where residents are treated to various stimulating activities and top medical care. We have an orphanage that has been created to feel like a family home; we have a home for people with special needs where residents are employed in jobs making them valuable contributors to a special ecosystem.

We have an ambulance service, a security service, an organization helping those and their families battling cancer. We have an organization helping those with fertility challenges, and one that feeds those who cannot afford to put food on their tables.

We gave Gemachs that ensure that brides will have a wedding dress and beautiful decor on their special day, and that new moms have access to all the essentials for their babies. 

We have an organization that exists purely to ensure that as Jews, our religious and civil freedoms are protected and defended. 

The South African Jewish community epitomizes the Talmudic value “Kol Yisrael arevim zeh ba-zeh” performing our duty to look after one another. It is with immense pride that I count myself as a South African Jew.