Voices of Olim

Culture-shock, language barriers, and never-ending bureaucracy — these are just a few of the many hurdles that come with making aliyah. While such challenges understandably deter many, thousands of Jews around the world continue to uproot their lives and move to Israel, choosing an arguably more challenging lifestyle. Ironically, as the Israel-Hamas War drags on with no clear end in sight, more and more Jews in the Diaspora are choosing to call Israel home. Despite the hardships, many olim will tell you they have no regrets and that there is truly nowhere else they’d rather be.

In these uncertain times, it's important for us as olim to reflect on why we came here, and, just as importantly, why we stay. This column will explore the real-life experiences of olim across the country, in all their colorful diversity, covering various themes: the struggles, yes, but also the moments of light, strength, and inspiration that make it all worthwhile. Through these relatable stories, I hope to share not only the wide-range of difficulties experienced by olim but also the richness and beauty of living in Israel— and perhaps inspire others to take the leap and make aliyah themselves.

Voices of Olim

Surviving Israeli public transport as an oleh

Lost in translation: the joys of learning Hebrew

Deemed unfit to drive by Israeli bureaucracy

Bureaucracy battles: how do olim deal with the Israeli postal service?

Bureaucratic battles: The struggles of new Israeli olim at the Interior Ministry

Shifra Jacobs: Adjusting to life in Israel as a young olah

Heshy Engelsberg: A bumpy and painful aliyah journey, but with no regrets