TRAVEL WITH US — Jewish Uruguay

with Shai Abend

Join us for a captivating virtual journey as we travel back in time to uncover the roots of Jewish immigration to Uruguay. Imagine yourself stepping into the lives of these early settlers and experiencing the unique reality they encountered. We’ll explore the fascinating process that led to the formation of Uruguay’s organized Jewish community. Discover how Uruguay, once celebrated as the ‘Switzerland of America’—a pioneering welfare state, Latin America’s most secular nation, and a global leader in progressive thought—profoundly shaped a vibrant, diverse, and ideologically active Jewish community. We’ll share the compelling life stories of prominent figures who lived here and reveal intriguing connections between Jewish and Uruguayan cultures. Finally, we’ll open a dialogue about the current state of Jewish life in Uruguay, reflecting on its key issues and future challenges

Driven by a passion for connecting individuals with their Jewish heritage in Uruguay, Shai Abend Abudara (43, Israeli-Uruguayan) is a community entrepreneur, educator, and experienced tour guide. Holding a B.A. in Political Science and Humanities from the Hebrew University and an M.A. in Business Intelligence from the University of Barcelona, Shai brings a unique blend of academic rigor and practical experience to his work. He is the visionary founder and director of “BERESHIT: The Jewish Experience,” a non-profit community initiative that fosters connection through engaging educational, cultural, and tourism projects. Within BERESHIT, Shai also spearheads the “Jewish Museum Initiative.” He previously led the Jewish Studies department at the Catholic University in Uruguay, and he is deeply committed to Holocaust education, volunteering with Holocaust survivors and leading educational trips in Poland.

Please register in advance