OU Israel’s Rabbi Avi Berman says global Jewish teens, once dismissed as the “TikTok generation,” are proving to be fearless, heritage-driven, and profoundly connected to Israel and Jewish continuity.
Rabbi Avi Berman, Executive Director of OU Israel, offered a moving reflection on the resilience and identity of today’s Jewish youth, praising their courage, loyalty to Israel, and commitment to Jewish life.
Speaking with Arutz Sheva-Israel National News, Rabbi Berman said:
“Over the past 22 months, we’ve witnessed a generation we once thought of as the ‘TikTok generation’ reveal themselves to be a generation of lions.”
He described how thousands of teens still travel to Israel even under rocket fire, refusing to give up on summer programs like NCSY Kollel, Michlelet, Give, Camp Dror, and others. Even when sirens sounded repeatedly in Beit Meir, “not one teen asked to leave.”
Highlights from Rabbi Berman’s remarks:
- Fearless Connection to Israel: Teens come despite wars with Hamas or Iran, saying: “My homeland is Israel… I don’t want to miss out on my program.”
- Anchored in Heritage: Standing at sites like the Kotel, Shiloh, or Hebron, teens grasp that Jewish identity is rooted in 3,000 years of history.
- Transformation Through Experience: What begins as social excitement evolves into deep responsibility, pride, and a desire to serve.
- Global Responsibility: Teens recognize that Israel’s strength protects Jews worldwide and many choose to serve as lone soldiers in the IDF.
- Mutual Inspiration: Diaspora teens draw strength from Israeli soldiers, while Israeli youth are uplifted by the passion and enthusiasm of their peers from abroad.
Rabbi Berman concluded:
“Two years ago, people doubted this generation. Today, we see lions — young people who understand their heritage, embrace responsibility, and inspire us all. Parents and teachers should take pride in raising such extraordinary youth.”
His message is clear: far from being distracted, today’s Jewish teens are writing a new chapter of courage, connection, and continuity — carrying the torch of Israel and Jewish life forward.
