This week, British participants of World Bnei Akiva’s Hachshara programme went to Kiryat Moshe to meet with Arieh Handler in his home.
As well as rescuing dozens of children during the Second World War from Nazi Germany, Arieh also established Bnei Akiva in the United Kingdom. He is now the only surviving person who was present when David Ben Gurion proclaimed the State of Israel on 14 May 1948.
He told the Hachshara group what motivated him to set up Bnei Akiva, and how it felt to have attended the declaration of Israel’s independence.
Jonny Lipczer, head of the British Desk at World Bnei Akiva, said: "British Bnei Akiva has been leading the way for 70 years, and it was a privilege to spend time with the movement’s inspirational founder. Arieh Handler is a role model to everyone he meets, and he has demonstrated that great things can be achieved."
Joseph Landsberg, of London, said: "Meeting Arieh Handler was one of the highlights of my year. Now, more than ever, I can wear my Bnei Akiva shirt with pride, aware of my responsibility to continue the legacy created by Arieh, and to play my part in the future of the movement."
Hannah Cohen, of Manchester, said: "It was an amazing opportunity for our group to meet with the founder of British Bnei Akiva. It is Arieh Handler who we can thank for us having an incredible experience in Israel this year."
Lisa Ellenbogen, of Manchester, said: "Arieh Handler is a man who has reached great heights, and who has been through so much. Yet, he is still young at heart, and as enthusiastic about life as we are at the age of 19."
Gideon Bratt, of London, said: "Arieh Handler is a living legend, and I am grateful for the opportunity I had to meet him. Arieh has affected each of our lives in so many ways. Hearing how he saved children during the Holocaust, set up Hachshara, and spread the message of Bnei Akiva around the world was inspirational, and his words will stay with me forever."
David Fisher, of Essex, said: "It was inspirational to hear Arieh Handler, a man with such a remarkable history, give his vision and guidance for the future."
Eve Minsky, of London, said: "Our meeting with Arieh Handler was moving and uplifting. Few people have given so much to the Jewish nation. He is a source of inspiration to young Jews all over the world, and can truly be called a leader."
Speaking to the group, Arieh Handler said: "Every one of you can help to make sure that the Jewish nation will be a strong and good nation. You, as young people, as members of Bnei Akiva, should know what you want to achieve in order to help others and make the Jewish nation and strong one. That is your task."
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