The Hillel Jewish Student Cultural Center in Dnipro held a special gathering for women, dedicated to Rosh Hashanah, the traditions of the holiday, and creative self-expression. The gathering took place with the support of Project Kesher as part of the women’s meetings of the Jewish Women’s Hub project: “A Space for Jewish Initiatives,” implemented with the support of Joint Ukraine.
Alona Kolpina, director of Hillel, shares: “Rosh Hashanah is a time for reflection on the passing year, new beginnings, and wishes for the future. This time, the participants greeted the Jewish New Year in the warm atmosphere of a women’s circle: they socialized, exchanged thoughts, became acquainted with the traditions of the holiday, and inspired one another.
During the gathering, they spoke about the symbols and attributes of Rosh Hashanah and also explored how they are reflected in world art. This format allowed them to look at familiar images from a new angle and see in them not only elements of tradition but also a source of personal associations and creative ideas.
A special place in the program was given to a workshop by Elina Tulyakova, dedicated to one of the most famous symbols of Rosh Hashanah – the pomegranate. In Jewish tradition, it is associated with abundance, blessing, and hope for a good and fruitful year.
Each participant created her own image of the pomegranate. Despite the shared theme, the works turned out completely different: they differed in colors, compositions, details, techniques, and artistic style. Thus, one symbol of the holiday turned into an entire collection of unique works, each of which found room for individuality and personal vision. The creative process became not only an opportunity to try one’s hand at art but also a way to spend time together, open up to new acquaintances, and fill the celebration with special meaning.
The organizers of the event were Liza Chelak and Elina Tulyakova, who are taking the course “Women Leaders: Next Generation” from Project Kesher.
Hillel JSCC thanks all the participants for their openness, creativity, and warm atmosphere, and the Jewish Community of Dnipro for supporting initiatives that help develop women’s leadership and create spaces for Jewish life and connection.
