A time to come and a time to go

MARY KLUK

The Paris atrocities were just the latest incidents of terrorism by Islamist extremists that have taken place this year, all of which underline the precarious nature of security around the globe.

They include the massacre of 147 students by at Garissa University in Kenya and the deaths of at least 38 people, mainly tourists, in Sousse, Tunisia. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the people of France during this tragic time.

The Paris attacks have lent an additional significance to what the Dr Bernard-Henri Levy will have to say at the SAJBD’s national conference this Sunday. Dr Levy is recognised internationally as being a strong, forthright voice against extremism, racism and anti-Semitism, and hailing from a country that has been particularly affected by these scourges, provides an additional dimension of urgency and immediacy to the insights he has to impart.

Sharing the platform with him is World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder, who is likewise engaged at the highest levels in global efforts to counter extremism and bigotry. 

A valedictory message

This is my last SA Jewish Report column before I step down as National Chairman of the SAJBD. In thanking all of those who accompanied me along what has been a sometimes bumpy, but always enthralling and deeply rewarding journey, I begin by thanking our extraordinary Jewish community for their support and good will. It has been a pleasure to have engaged with so many of you and a privilege to have represented the community in so many important forums.

Next, I thank all my colleagues on the SAJBD’s executive committee, not just for their unstinting support, advice and assistance, but as importantly, their warm friendship. They are National President Zev Krengel, Vice-Chairman Doron Joffe, David Simson and Eric Marx, National Treasurer Raymond Goss, Advocate Michael Donen and regional chairmen Ronnie Herr, Jeff Katz and Sean Zagnoev.

Zev in particular has been an unbelievable mentor, and without his unstinting and generous support, advice and guidance, I could never have taken on the position.   

Finally, I wish to thank our national staff: National Director Wendy Kahn, Associate Director David Saks, Charisse Zeifert, Shirley Beagle, Jenni Fearnley, Rabbi Moshe Silberhaft and Chaya Singer.

Without reservation, I can say that the commitment and passion shown by this phenomenal team, with Wendy unfailingly leading by example, is in my experience unparalleled. All are driven by the same love and concern for the Jewish community, and in serving it go way beyond the call of duty.

 As I step down after four years at the helm of this very special organisation, I do so secure in the knowledge that SA Jewry is in the best of hands.

•   Listen to Charisse Zeifert on Jewish Board Talk, 101.9 ChaiFM every Friday 12:00 – 13:00