Young Jewish Professionals Climb Kilimanjaro in Show of Solidarity with Israel

Eighteen young Jewish professionals from North West London have achieved both a physical and spiritual milestone by summiting Mount Kilimanjaro in a powerful demonstration of Jewish pride, solidarity with Israel, and charitable purpose.

The eight-day trek, which began on July 7, saw the climbers aged in their 20s and 30s reach the 5,895-meter peak of Africa’s highest mountain while raising over £90,000 towards the construction of a new medical center in Tzfat. The initiative was led by Rabbi Meir Levin and his wife, Libi, through the Brondesbury Park Young Jewish Professionals (BPark YJP) group, in partnership with UJIA.

At the summit, the group held aloft an Israeli flag and placed a poster of Avinatan Or, one of the Israeli hostages taken during the Hamas terror attack on October 7. A photo of the gesture was later shared with Or’s family as a message of hope and remembrance.

“This project was about helping young Jews connect more deeply with Israel and to truly live their Judaism,” Rabbi Levin said. “The spirit of the group was genuinely magical.”

The group also observed Shabbat on the mountain, enjoyed kosher meals at high altitude, and found unity across varying levels of religious observance. For many, the experience offered a rare blend of physical challenge, spiritual reflection, and Jewish identity.

“Since 7 October, so many young Jews have been searching for ways to connect with Israel and other like-minded young Jews,” said participant Edward Isaacs. “I’m so grateful to have been part of something that allowed us to do that while proudly being Jewish every step of the way.”

Johnny Rosen, co-founder of BPark YJP and one of the trip’s organizers, said the group achieved a rare 100 percent summit success rate an indicator of both determination and mutual support. Participant Sophie Engler described the mountaintop Shabbat as “one of the most spiritual and meaningful” moments of her life.

What began as an idea in late 2024 has become a rallying point for young Jews seeking connection, purpose, and pride in their heritage. The group’s climb stands not just as a physical triumph but as a resounding affirmation of Jewish unity and love for the State of Israel.

Israel’s spirit is carried not only on battlefields and in boardrooms but on mountaintops around the world. Share this story or subscribe to our newsletter to discover more ways the Jewish world stands with Israel, in every generation.