Louk family honoured by dignitaries in Pretoria

The Israeli embassy hosted the family of Shani Louk at the Pretoria Hebrew Congregation on 30 January.

Louk, 22, was one of more than 360 people who were shot, bludgeoned, or burned to death by Hamas-led terrorists at the Nova festival in Israel on 7 October 2023. Her body was then abducted by Hamas to Gaza.

At the event, her parents, Nissim and Ricarda Louk, were introduced to the dignitaries present, including diplomats from Germany, Lithuania, and the United Kingdom, by Adi Cohen-Hazanov, charge d’affaires at the embassy.

Liran Assness, treasurer at the South African Zionist Federation, reflected on the significance of the Pretoria gathering, which he said was more than a meeting of individuals, but a demonstration of the power of community, the strength of shared values, and the resilience of the human spirit.

“We have had the incredible privilege of hearing from Nissim and Ricarda Louk, their courage in the face of unspeakable pain, their willingness to share their journey, and their determination to honour Shani’s memory, which has touched us all deeply. They have shown us what it means to transform grief into a force for unity, resilience, and hope,” Assness said.

He paid tribute to the organisation’s project partners, community leaders, and supporters, saying that their dedication to their shared mission is our foundation. “It’s through everyone’s tireless efforts, advocacy, and unwavering commitment that we amplify the impact and ensure that the connection between South Africa and Israel continues to be a force for unity and good,” Assness said.