Voices of Olim

Olim reflect on why they made aliyah this year

Since October 7, rising antisemitism in the Diaspora has prompted many Jews to reconsider their futures, with Israel offering both safety and a stronger sense of community.

|ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators carry a banner during a protest against the arrival of an Israeli cruise ship in the port of Piraeus near Athens, Greece, June 12, 2025.
The Gvahim team.

Gvahim: Two decades of helping olim build their careers

A nonprofit organization helps olim of working age translate their skills, experience, and ambitions into meaningful careers.

|ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
Lauren Adilev

Lauren Adilev: from everywhere to Kiryat Arba

Veteran olah, business owner, and writer Lauren Adilev, reflects on her aliyah and life in Israel.

|ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
First Station view. Known as the Jerusalem–Khan railway station when in operation, it was used between 1892 and 1998, before the Malha station became Jerusalem’s primary rail terminus.

Olim’s guide to Jerusalem: best hangouts and activities for 2026

Known for its youthful energy and constant buzz, Jerusalem has plenty to offer newcomers looking to connect, explore, and enjoy city life.

|ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN

From aliyah to the IDF: Shlav Bet gives olim a chance to serve  

Since the start of the Israel-Hamas War, Shlav Bet has expanded and gained new momentum, with many Israelis and olim stepping forward to fill manpower gaps and support the IDF.

OCTOBER 17, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
IDF soldiers conducting counterterrorism operations in the Gaza Strip, September 14, 2025.

Choosing Israel: why olim stay during wartime

Reflections from olim as to why they chose to make aliyah - and stay.

OCTOBER 9, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
Olim from France who arrived in Israel during the war. Illustrative

Olim share stories of acts of unexpected kindness (Part II)

These acts of kindness may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but for new olim navigating the challenges of starting over, they can have a lasting impact.

OCTOBER 3, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
An illustrative image of a man blowing a shofar outside an El Al plane in Israel.

Olim recall moments of unexpected kindness

When life here feels overwhelming, even the smallest act of kindness or compassion can make all the difference.

SEPTEMBER 26, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
NEW IMMIGRANTS from France arrive at Ben-Gurion Airport in June.

Aliyah in wartime: Why move to Israel during conflict?

Olim share why they made aliyah amid conflict or why they choose to stay.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
Despite recent 12-day war with Iran, Nefesh B’Nefesh expects 2,000 North American Olim during 2025 summer season.

Survival tips for grocery shopping in Israel

Olim provide practical guidance for how to make shopping in Israel feel less overwhelming and more manageable.

SEPTEMBER 12, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
Mahaneh_Yehudah

Shopping in Israel: chaos, carts, and comedy

Whether it be Rami Levy or Osher Ad, even a simple trip to the grocery store can feel like an episode of Kupa Reshit.

SEPTEMBER 3, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
Shopping in Israel can also be an exhausting and overwhelming experience, says the writer.

Israel’s healthcare through an olah’s eyes: one woman’s story of struggle and strength

The combination of language barriers, bureaucracy, and cultural differences can make even routine appointments overwhelming.

AUGUST 28, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
Test results are often difficult to understand in Hebrew.

Navigating Israel’s healthcare system as an oleh

The experiences of olim navigating Israel’s healthcare system— stories that are often frustrating and relatable, sometimes amusing, and at times even inspiring.

AUGUST 22, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
View of a Maccabi Health Center in Modi'in, on January 26, 2021.

Surviving Israeli public transport as an oleh

Diving headfirst into the chaos of the Israeli public transport system amid a heatwave and the temporary shutdown of Jerusalem's light rail.

AUGUST 15, 2025ByBATSHEVA SHULMAN
The Jerusalem light rail is temporarily out of service, forcing commuters onto already crowded buses or scrambling for alternative ways to get around.