In this episode of Aliyah Chronicles, host Matthew Fleischman sits down with Telma Haviv, a mother, tour guide, and former member of the IDF spokesperson unit, who made Aliyah from Paris in 2020. Telma shares her journey of rediscovering her Jewish identity, embracing Israeli culture, and building a life rooted in purpose and resilience.

Telma opens up about the challenges of leaving a familiar life in France, adapting to the unique dynamics of Israeli society, and joining the IDF at 23. From navigating stereotypes about French olim to raising a family in Israel, Telma’s story highlights the strength it takes to create a new life while staying true to yourself.

Please note that this episode was recorded prior to the announcement of the ceasefire. While some reflections may not account for recent events, Telma’s insights remain a powerful reminder of the courage and determination that define the Aliyah journey.

• How Telma’s sense of belonging and family connection inspired her to make Aliyah.

• The challenges of joining the IDF at 23 and adapting to military culture.

• How Telma overcame stereotypes about French immigrants in Israel.

• Why Telma believes in the importance of resilience and self-discovery through Aliyah.

• Her advice for anyone considering Aliyah, including taking the leap without overthinking it.

• Finding Belonging: Telma’s story showcases how Aliyah can provide a profound sense of purpose and connection.

• Resilience Through Challenges: From learning a new language to raising a family, Telma demonstrates the power of adaptability.

• Cultural Integration: Telma reflects on her growth as an olah and how embracing Israeli culture shaped her identity.

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• Discover other shows by Briefly Distracted Media, like Landings and Layovers and Accidental Homemaker: [Briefly Distracted Media Link]

• Explore resources for making Aliyah at Nefesh B’Nefesh.

If Telma’s story inspired you, please subscribe to Aliyah Chronicles and leave a review—it helps us reach more listeners and share more incredible stories. Don’t forget to share this episode with anyone considering their own journey to Israel or who loves hearing about life-changing experiences.

Episode Summary:
On this episode of Aliyah Chronicles, host Matthew Fleischman sits down with Paulina Bulgakova, an artist who made Aliyah from Siberia seven years ago. Paulina’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and finding freedom—both personally and professionally.

Paulina opens up about discovering her Jewish heritage at 17 and how that revelation changed the course of her life. From her experiences with Taglit to her decision to make Aliyah, Paulina shares what it was like to leave everything familiar behind and start anew. She also reflects on the challenges of adapting to Israeli culture, the moments that made her feel at home, and how living in Israel helped her redefine her identity and values.

This is a story about growth, courage, and the beauty of creating a life on your own terms. Don’t miss this inspiring episode!

• How Paulina’s discovery of her Jewish roots at 17 sparked her connection to Israel.

• The pivotal role Taglit played in her decision to make Aliyah.

• The challenges and surprises of adjusting to Israeli culture and society.

• How living in Israel shaped Paulina’s identity as an artist and individual.

• Why Paulina believes making Aliyah was the best decision of her life.

• Rediscovering Identity: Paulina’s journey highlights the transformative power of embracing heritage and exploring your roots.

• Adapting to Change: From language barriers to cultural differences, Paulina shares how resilience helped her thrive in Israel.

• Living Authentically: Israel became a place where Paulina found freedom—personally, artistically, and socially.

Stay connected with Aliyah Chronicles for more inspiring stories and updates:

• Instagram: @AliyahChroniclesPod

• Twitter/X: @AliyahChronicle

• Facebook: Aliyah Chronicles

• Listen to more episodes of Aliyah Chronicles: [Podcast Link]

• Learn about Briefly Distracted Media and explore our other shows: [Briefly Distracted Media Link]

• Interested in making Aliyah? Visit Nefesh B’Nefesh for resources and support.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Aliyah Chronicles on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Your support helps us share these incredible stories with more listeners worldwide.

When it comes to life-changing decisions, making Aliyah—moving to Israel—is one of the most profound journeys a person can undertake. For Anna Rajko, a French-born social media manager, this decision was more than just a move; it was a transformative experience that shaped her identity and her future.

In her conversation on Aliyah Chronicles, Anna shared her unique story, from her roots in Brazil and France to finding a deep sense of belonging in Israel. Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and courage it takes to start over in a new land while embracing the challenges and joys along the way.

Anna’s path to Aliyah began with a unique cultural mix. Adopted from Brazil and raised in a Jewish home in France, Anna’s childhood was shaped by questions about identity and belonging. While she grew up connected to her Jewish heritage, it wasn’t until her visits to Israel that she felt a pull toward something deeper.

When she first visited Israel, Anna experienced an emotional connection she couldn’t ignore. “Every time I left Israel, I felt a deep sense of loss,” she shared. It was during these moments that Anna realized her future was tied to Israel—a place she felt she could truly call home.

Making Aliyah was not without its hurdles. Anna left behind her family and familiar surroundings in France to start a new life in Israel. One of the biggest challenges she faced was learning Hebrew—a necessity for integrating into Israeli society. Yet, Anna’s determination pushed her forward, and she eventually became fluent through her national service in Israel.

Another cultural adjustment was learning to embrace the fast-paced, often blunt nature of Israeli life. “In Israel, you have to learn to be straightforward,” Anna noted. This cultural shift not only helped Anna adapt but also shaped her confidence and independence.

Anna’s story is also about the power of community. She described how her experiences in Israel introduced her to a diverse group of friends and colleagues who became like family. While her journey wasn’t always easy, the support and connections she built along the way helped her feel more rooted.

A particularly poignant moment came when Anna realized the significance of her decision. “One day, I looked around and thought, this is my home now. It’s not just where I live—it’s where I belong,” she said.

Anna’s journey offers valuable insights for others considering making Aliyah. Her advice? Embrace the discomfort and challenges, because they will lead to growth and opportunities. She believes that the key to thriving in Israel is a willingness to adapt and an openness to the unexpected.

For Anna, Aliyah was more than a relocation—it was a step toward becoming her truest self. “Making Aliyah changed everything,” she reflected. “I wouldn’t be who I am today without taking that leap of faith.”

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you experienced a transformative journey like Anna’s? Share your story or connect with us on social media:

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Aliyah Chronicles is more than just a podcast—it’s a space where personal stories come to life. Explore other episodes and hear from inspiring guests who’ve made the bold decision to move to Israel and start anew. Check out our full library of episodes here.