Dear TJJ Can 2 Parents,

I hope this email finds you well. We have had an incredible third week here in Israel, filled with unforgettable experiences and meaningful connections. I wanted to share some of the highlights with you and give you a glimpse into what your children have been up to.

After a peaceful and inspiring Shabbat in the holy city of Jerusalem, we ventured out to Ben Yehuda street on Saturday night. It was a vibrant atmosphere, and the students had a chance to immerse themselves in the energy of the city.

Sunday morning brought a momentous occasion as we visited the Western Wall for the first time. To create a unique and powerful experience, the students who were encountering the Kotel for the first time were blindfolded. With a trusted friend guiding them, they walked up to the wall in anticipation. When the blindfolds were removed at that very moment there was complete oneness and unity as everyone stood in awe. We then got to go up to the wall and experience the Kotel first hand. When we returned to our original meeting point, everyone embraced each other crying tears of joy. There was a clear feeling and understanding that we had made it to the place where for thousands of years Jews from all over the world had come to pour their hearts, and reconnect to our essence- our soul. I was truly honoured to be a part of that moment.

Our journey continued on Monday in the vibrant city of Eilat. We spent the day enjoying a boat cruise, snorkeling, and participating in water sports. The students had a blast, and the lively atmosphere was contagious. We wrapped up the day by strolling along the boardwalk, creating lasting memories.

Tuesday took us to the northern cliffs, where we had an exhilarating rappelling adventure down Mitzpe Ramon. The thrill of conquering the heights was matched only by the stunning views. That night, we camped under the starry sky in Kfar Hanokdim, surrounded by the beauty of the desert.

Wednesday was packed with more exploration as we ascended Masada, floated in the Dead Sea, and hiked through the enchanting waterfalls of Ein Gedi. The natural wonders of Israel left us in awe, and we marveled at the diverse landscapes we encountered.

On Thursday, we visited the City of David and ventured into the water tunnels and had a special Krav Maga Session. It was an exciting and educational experience that allowed us to delve into the rich history of Jerusalem. After bidding a short goodbye, the students headed into the free weekend, eager to recharge and spend time with friends and family

Next week we will have reached the final week and a couple of days of our program, and it is bittersweet to think about our upcoming farewell. The journey has been filled with growth, discovery, and deep connections. Your teens have shown resilience, curiosity, and a genuine thirst for knowledge. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of their journey.

Thank you for your trust, support and encouragement! Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom! 
Leah Schlam 

© 2026 TJJ Canada 2. All Rights Reserved.