NOAM Olami

On May 26, our NOAM Shnat MAROM​ group came together with the shinshinim from נוע"ם - נוער מסורתי for a special day of learning, connection, and community.

Together, we explored the idea of Hagshama: turning our values and beliefs into action. We reflected on what Hagshama means personally, within the Masorti movement, and through NOAM.

We wrapped up the day by joining the NOAM peulot led by the shinshinim, alongside our amazing NOAM São Paulo madrichim, who also took part in leading and participating in the activities.

It was incredibly meaningful to learn together, discover how much we share, and watch new friendships grow throughout the day.

Here’s to more learning, more connection, and many more collaborations like this one.

Wishing all of us continued Hagshama, bringing our beliefs, values, and dreams into action.

From May 7–10, Abayudaya Youth Association (NOAM Uganda) members from Jewish communities across Uganda came together in the Apac Jewish Community in the Northern region of the country for a special Shabbaton inspired by the theme “Receiving the Torah.”

For many young people in Apac, this was a rare opportunity to host and experience a Shabbaton in their own community while connecting with Jewish youth from across the country.

One of the biggest highlights of the weekend was a peulah led independently by the Madrichim for the very first time during an AYA Shabbaton. Through discussions and activities about humility, unity, and what it means to receive the Torah, they showed incredible leadership, confidence, and teamwork.

The weekend was filled with meaningful moments — welcoming Shabbat together, singing and playing guitar, learning from one another, and even pushing the van through flooded roads on the way to Apac.

Experiences like these continue to strengthen friendships, leadership, and Jewish life across Uganda.

We’re excited to share our first ever NOAM Olami Tu Bishvat Haggadah, inspired by our values of Tikun Olam and sustainability.

Reflect on your roots, trunk, branches, and leaves with simple texts and questions to spark meaningful conversations for all ages.

Download and use online or print:
❱❱ bit.ly/noam-olami-tu-bishvat-seder-haggadah
Available in English, French, Portuguese, Spanish & Ukrainian

Wishing you a joyful and meaningful Tu Bishvat!

This December, Jewish youth from across Uganda came together for the traditional Shabbaton of the Abayudaya Youth Association (AYA), NOAM Olami’s local youth chapter. Centered on the theme “Everyone Has a Light to Share,” the weekend created space for each participant to shine, from Hanukkah candle lighting to a lively talent show filled with creativity, confidence, and joy.

They were also joined by an inspiring group of MAROM volunteers from Comunidade Shalom, who were in Uganda as part of Jornada Social, a hands-on volunteer initiative focused on concrete improvements to local infrastructure and living conditions within communities. During the Shabbaton, they took part in sessions and Hanukkah candle lighting, creating meaningful moments of shared learning, connection, and exchange across communities.

The weekend was filled with energy and inspiration, with sessions led by Rabbi Fernanda Tomchinsky-Galanternik, from Shalom, facilitator Norah Nantabo, and Rabbi Gershom Sizomu, senior rabbi of the Abayudaya communities. Alongside joyful Shabbat tefilot, shared meals, and unforgettable singing, youth also took part in leadership conversations with AYA President Natan Kintu and madricha Zivah Sizomu, encouraging them to step up and take active roles in their communities.

The Shabbaton was a reminder that every light matters and that when we come together, we build stronger, brighter Jewish communities.

Huge thanks to everyone who made this weekend possible. May the light we shared continue to grow and travel far beyond this Shabbaton.