Slava’s Story – Aliyah and Absorption

Slava’s Journey: Finding Home in the Land of Israel

Slava grew up in Mogilev, Belarus, immersed in his Jewish heritage, thanks to his uncle – the head of their city’s Jewish community, along with his grandfather and mother. Their devotion ensured that Slava didn’t only know about the High Holy Days, but felt the significance of these holidays, with the Jewish roots of his identity deepening each year.

Slava’s grandparents’ stories haunted him – tales of life under Soviet rule, where being Jewish meant facing closed doors and whispered prejudice. They described family and friends being denied opportunities simply because of their names or heritage. These stories weren’t just history lessons; they were warnings and reminders of why a Jewish homeland matters. 

He followed news about Israel with growing fascination – a child dreaming of distant shores. When Slava completed school in Belarus, he decided it was time to make Aliyah and turn his dreams into reality. 

The Selah program was Slava’s bridge to Israel, ensuring a smooth transition into his new home.

Selah – a Dedicated Program for Olim from the Former Soviet Union

Selah is a 10-month academic and army preparatory course and Aliyah program for recent high school graduates from the former Soviet Union who immigrate to Israel on their own or prior to their parents. The program serves around 150-400 young adults annually, in partnership with Masa Israel Journey.

His Hebrew Ulpan didn’t just teach language; it offered keys to a new culture. While learning, Slava found himself surrounded by others navigating the same journey. Selah has illuminated potential paths forward for Slava. He has chosen to serve in the IDF. Following Slava’s service, he hopes to continue his education at Bar-Ilan University or the Technion, where he will build skills to contribute meaningfully to his new homeland. 

For Slava, making Aliyah wasn’t simply relocating – it was answering a call that had been whispered to him since childhood. When he watches the sunset over Jerusalem or hears Hebrew spoken on street corners, he feels a completeness he never knew was missing.  In Israel, he is not just Slava from Belarus – he is Slava who has returned home to where he belongs. 

Read more about the UIA supported Aliyah and Absorption program: