Between December 11 and 14, in Campos do Jordão (SP), Shabaton Kesher took place, bringing together 15 Jewish young adults from different regions of Brazil — Fortaleza (CE), Recife (PE), São Paulo (SP), Porto Alegre (RS), Maringá (PR), and Paraty (RJ) — for four days of intensive communal experience, leadership development, and strengthening of Jewish identity.
The Shabaton was designed as a space for deep connection among young people from diverse communal realities — ranging from large urban centers to cities with little or no organized Jewish presence. The program included moments of Shabbat, study sessions, open dialogue, educational activities, and leadership-focused dynamics rooted in the values of Reform Judaism.
Throughout the gathering, participants shared experiences, challenges, and aspirations, building meaningful relationships and a support network that transcends geographic boundaries. The atmosphere of listening, exchange, and belonging highlighted the importance of investing in spaces that empower young voices and prepare them to engage thoughtfully and actively in their communities.
An initiative of the Union for Reform Judaism in Latin America (UJR-AmLat), Shabaton Kesher concluded its Brazilian edition with a strong sense of enthusiasm, momentum, and continuity. The experience made it clear that Kesher has the potential to grow and expand into a Latin American–wide platform, connecting young people from different countries, cultures, and realities into a shared network of identity, leadership, and a collective vision for the future.
