In an atmosphere of camaraderie and inspiration, over 50 Shluchos from across Southern Africa gathered for a groundbreaking event—the region’s first-ever overnight Kinus Hashluchos. Held at the luxurious Mint Resorts the Blyde in Pretoria, the kinus provided a picturesque setting for the attendees, blending physical relaxation with a ruchnius rejuvenation.
The entire kinus, including the learning sessions, was dedicated to the safety and security of Eretz Yisroel, the Chayalim, and the safe and speedy return of our hostages. This focus infused every aspect of the kinus with a deep sense of purpose and unity.
The kinus was opened by Head Shlucha Rebbetzin Mashi Lipskar, one of the event’s organizers, whose inspiring words set the tone for a Kinus filled with learning, bonding, and personal growth. “As we gather here, it is essential to remember who our Mishalayach is—the Rebbe,” she emphasized. “Our goal is to renew our hiskashrus and make it the focus of our shlichus, ensuring that we return to our communities with renewed energy and dedication.”
The comprehensive program, meticulously planned to the minute by a team of dedicated shluchos, led by Raisy Hecht and Leah Lipskar, ensured that every moment was impactful. Almost all sessions were led by shluchos, covering a wide array of topics relevant to their unique roles, with Rabbi Gideon Fox, Dayan on the Johannesburg Beis Din and Shliach in Pretoria, leading a thought-provoking session titled “Answers on the Tip of My Tongue.” This session delved into practical guidance for navigating challenging questions in their communities, helping shluchos reinforce their connection to the Rebbe’s teachings.
Throughout the kinus, shluchos had opportunities to relax and bond over gourmet meals and participated in engaging activities designed to foster a sense of achdus and unity. One of the highlights was the night activity, featuring a “Speed Dating” session mixing humour and sincerity, allowing shluchos to deepen their connections. This was followed by an emotional farbrengen with stories, niggunim, and shluchos sharing what was on their hearts and minds, leading to passionate discussions and debates.
The luxurious accommodations and serene setting were not just a backdrop but a vital part of the experience. Shluchos enjoyed spa treatments, goody bags filled with treats, and the overall attention to detail that made each participant feel cherished. One attendee expressed her gratitude, “I came home feeling inspired, free, and elevated with new energy! The gashmius, exceptional speakers, and the comprehensive, brilliantly planned program made this kinus unforgettable.”
As the kinus came to a close, the shluchos left with new insights and strategies, a renewed sense of purpose, and a deeper connection to the Rebbe, their Mishalayach. Many expressed immense gratitude for an event that “filled in so many spheres,” leaving them better prepared to continue their vital work in their respective communities.
Each shlucha returned home to their makom shlichus, invigorated and enriched by 24 hours of learning, inspiration, camaraderie and support. This first overnight kinus will undoubtedly
serve as a foundation for future events, building on the achdus and hiskashrus experienced during this historic kinus.
I had the opportunity many years ago to spend time in Johannesburg, I was a guest in the Lipsker home, I’ll never forget how Rebbetzin Lipsker went out of way to help me in my particular Shlichus.
The Rabbi treated me like a visiting dignitary.
His very wise counsel has stayed with me to this day.
The Rebbe of Righteous Memory knew who to send…
mchoyil el choyil