Name: Ethan Tehranzadeh

Shevet: Orot

Current role in Bnei Akiva: Mazkir of Bnei Akiva Hamilton, Canada

What is your first memory of Bnei Akiva?
Yad Achim and Hatikvah during Shabbat Snif at my Shul.

Why do you think it’s so important to be involved in Bnei Akiva as a High Schooler?
It teaches you countless things that I wouldn’t have experienced otherwise. Leadership skills, problem solving and teamwork are all invaluable assets that assist you with many areas of life, and although you may not realize it at first, being involved in Bnei Akiva really taught me that.

Tell us your favourite Bnei Akiva experience?
The Shabbatonim are always an amazing experience. The first international Shabbaton I was on was the Grade 9 Manhiguit, in Detriot. It was awesome to see all the different cities unite together for one Shabbat. Sometimes, especially in smaller cities, you don’t always realize the bigger picture you are apart of. The Manhiguit Shabbaton was a refreshing reminder that there is something greater at stake.

Where is your dream place to live in Israel?
The holy city

What does Torah V Avodah mean to you?
To me, Torah v Avodah is taking the Torah I learnt during my classes and shiurim and applying them to my everyday life. I feel that it is not enough to just learn about mitzvot and halachot, the way you truly build a connection with the torah is to regularly incorporate them into your daily life.

What one item is a must to pack for a Bnei Akiva Shabbaton?
Definitely a siddur and tefillin. With so many people in a new shul environment, you always want to be prepared should you need a familiar siddur to daven from.  

Most meaningful Zionist/Jewish quote?
“A person should always view themselves as if the entire world depends on him” -Zohar II 42a.

What is your aliyah date?
When Hashem thinks the time is right