Voices of Olim

Lost phones, good deeds: Olim share heartwarming stories on Israeli buses

Some uplifting stories from olim who saw or experienced unexpected kindness on their travels.

 Buses in central Jerusalem, February 12, 2025
Olim job seekers have one-to-one meetings with mentors and recruiters.

MentOlim networking event revolutionizes job hunting for new olim

Shifra Jacobs and her beloved late dog Lexi.

'Why did you bring me here?': Panel of olim discuss 'accidental' aliyah

Jaime Boolkin

A land of opportunity: one young oleh’s path into hi-tech


Nelech: inspiring the next generation of olim to make aliyah

In January 2026, Nelech, the only Orthodox program that almost fully integrates students into Israeli schools, will launch its pilot program with a cohort of 25 students from across the US.

Rabbi Rick and his family visit the kotel.

Olim gather to celebrate Aliyah Day 2025

The evening captured both the diversity of Israel’s communities and the deep sense of purpose shared by olim from various countries, cultures, and backgrounds.

The event's organizers dance together.

From aliyah to the IDF: olim share their experiences doing Shlav Bet

The challenges, motivations, and personal growth involved in integrating into Israeli society through serving in the IDF.

Avi Moskowitz and his wife.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

 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.

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.

 Test results are often difficult to understand in Hebrew.