Talya Saban | Mazkira Artzi

It’s been said before that we don’t truly understand the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. I learned how true that statement was over the last several months. Serving as the Mazkira Artzi for Bnei Akiva of the US and Canada has been one of the most incredible experiences. Being able to see first hand the work and tireless dedication that goes into each Shabbaton, event, Peula, Snif and meeting has never failed to impress me. While a thank you won’t nearly suffice, I would like to take the time to highlight a few groups of people. 

1. To all the incredible Tzevet: Your dedication, effort, and passion are what fuel Bnei Akiva. From perfecting Peulot to running Shabbatons, the job you have can be unthinkable to the average High School student. Yet you all have all chosen to make it a priority to not only balance your schoolwork, friends, family, and extracurricular activities but to also inspire and educate your Chanichim. You all have worked so hard and while you may not immediately see the fruit of your labor, continue to always stay inspired and know in your heart that you contributed and taught a generation of Am Israel. 
2. The OOTA/Hanhala Artzi & Bogrim: Whether you have taken part in a Boger activity, helped run a Shabbaton, or guided a Tzevet member in something they may have needed; you should all be proud of yourselves. The success of Bnei Akiva relies on incredible, dedicated role models like all of you and you should always know that Bnei Akiva will always have a place for you. 
3. The BANA Tzevet; Rav Shaul, Bini, Rafi, James, Shula, Natalie, Devorah, and more… Watching each and every one of you work day in and the night was truly inspiring and allowed me to understand the endless effort that goes on behind the scenes. Thank you for allowing me to be apart of such an incredible and motivated group of people. 

This past year in Bnei Akiva has allowed each and every one of us to contribute to the world in ways big and small: from regional Shabbatons, to spreading support, educational material and love during a pandemic, as well running Chessed initiatives within communities, taking part in a Siyum (Al Lishma), you have all played such a tremendous role in Bnei Akiva this year. While the year may have not come to the end we all had expected, it’s important to remember that Bnei Akiva is not just in camp, school, or Shabbat, rather its something we all apart of and will continue to be apart of no matter what is going on in the world. So continue to inspire yourself and those around you, while also appreciating everything we have accomplished as a movement this year.