Limmud FSU Returns to Baku
A Celebration of Community and Knowledge for the Third Time
September 29, 2024, Baku: The capital of Azerbaijan hosted the much-anticipated event, Limmud FSU Baku 2024, bringing together people with diverse interests. The conference, dedicated to culture, science, and creativity, immersed participants in an atmosphere of knowledge, where everyone could find something useful through lectures, workshops, and discussions.
Chaim Chesler, Limmud FSU founder, highlighted Azerbaijan's rapid economic development, emphasizing the constant emergence of new hotels and infrastructure.
"Every time I visit, there’s something new here. The economic growth of the country is visibly impressive, and I am delighted to witness it," he stated. He particularly underscored the strong and amicable relations between Israel and Azerbaijan, noting that these ties strengthen each year: "Relations between Israel and Azerbaijan are currently at their peak. I am delighted to observe their development."
During the event, Chaim Chesler also emphasized the crucial role of the younger generation within Azerbaijan's Jewish community in preserving and enhancing cultural and historical ties. He reaffirmed that Limmud FSU will continue its efforts to support Jewish communities across various countries and expressed his hope for the continued flourishing of Azerbaijan's Jewish community.
Natasha Chechik, Executive Director of Limmud FSU, highlighted the importance of fostering connections within the Jewish community and the unique cultural contributions of Azerbaijan:
"At Limmud, we strive to create spaces where knowledge, creativity, and identity intersect. The enthusiasm and participation of the Azerbaijani Jewish community inspire us to continue our mission of building bridges across cultures and generations."
The program attracted many enthusiasts of history and Jewish culture. One speaker passionately discussed the role of lighthouses in history, highlighting their importance in saving lives. In the evening, participants enjoyed a tasting of Azerbaijani wines followed by an engaging intellectual game.
Participants delved into historical discussions, with one expert presenting key historical milestones and another speaker delivering a lecture on the moral code of humanity. A stress management workshop taught effective techniques for combating tension, while the day concluded with a talk on little-known facts about the Holocaust in the Caucasus.
For those interested in arts and crafts, a series of workshops offered opportunities to create collages, learn bead-weaving techniques, and explore the art of glass and ceramic painting. The creative day culminated with a sculpture-making workshop.
In the lobby, additional activities awaited guests, including photo zones, a book fair, and a raffle with prizes. The eventful day ended with a festive dinner and a gala concert, leaving everyone with vivid and unforgettable memories.
Limmud FSU was founded in 2006 and is led by prominent figures in the Jewish world, including Matthew Bronfman, Malcolm Hoenlein, co-founder Sandra Cahn, and others. Since Limmud FSU’s first conference 19 years ago, over 80 events have been organized, reaching approximately 80,000 Jews with roots in the Former Soviet Union (FSU) now living across the globe.
Limmud FSU's global work is supported by individuals and organizations such as the Conference on Jewish Material Claims against Germany, World Zionist Organization, STMEGI - International Charitable Foundation of Mountain Jews, Jewish National Fund – Keren Kayemet LeIsrael, American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, Nativ – Prime Minister’s Office, Wilf Family Foundation, Diane Wohl, Bill Hess, and more.
In the best tradition of Limmud, the event was made possible by its team of local leaders and volunteers, led by Limmud FSU Executive Director, Natasha Chechik, Director of Operations Gabi Farberov, Coordinator Samira Suleymanova, volunteers, and many more.