Anonymous was born in an anonymous country an anonymous number of years ago. He wishes his hobbies to remain anonymous and he enjoys learning in Midrash Shmuel.
Adam Abrahams was born in 1984, and began his school career at the Hasmoneon Preparatory school. At the age of ten, he attended the illustrious Haberdashers’ Askes Boys School. It was there that he was introduced to the art of egg rolling, an ancient Japanese art now practised worldwide, in some places. He mastered the art of rolling some of the world’s most rare and sought after eggs, such as the platypus egg, horn shark egg, and the chicken egg. During an egg rolling tour in Jerusalem, it dawned on him that he had rolled close to 16,000 eggs from over 73 species, and he asked himself what he had to show for it. His conclusion? Absolutely nothing! His next step was to enroll in the Midrash Shmuel Yeshiva. Despite his initial disappointment with the absence of egg-rolls from the yeshiva menu, he really loves it here.
Daniel was born in Manchester 20 years ago. He attended Broughton Jewish Primary School. He then moved on to Manchester Jewish Grammar School before moving on to Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel where he is in the middle of his 3rd successful year. He enjoys playing football on his spare time.
Yitzi was born in Miami over twenty one years ago and when he was young moved to Flatbush, New York. For High School, Yitzi attended YTT and Belle Harbor and after graduating in eleventh grade from Belle Harbor, he moved onto Midrash Shmuel where he has now entered his fourth year. Just this past summer, Yitzi played a central role in Camp Emes, a new summer camp hosted by Midrash Shmuel. Yitzi worked as a counselor for the youngest guys, putting his outreach skills to excellent use. When he is not learning, Yitzi enjoys reading, writing and playing roller hockey.
Elazar was born over twenty one years ago in Baltimore, Maryland. Elazar attended Bais HaMidrash and Mesivta of Baltimore and then learned in a number of different Yeshivos. He finally found his place in Midrash Shmuel and is now completing his first year in the Yeshiva. Elazar enjoys visiting ancient ruins and ancient places as well as taking in breathtaking scenic views. Elazar is looking forward to visit to Prague in the near future.
Reb Herschel was born in Cape Town where he lived for a short period of time before moving to Johannesberg. After finishing High School, Reb Herschel went to university where he studied law. After qualifying as a lawyer, Reb Herschel specialised as a tax consultant. He made his way out to Yeshiva in 2003 and joined the Midrash Shmuel Kollel in 2006. Reb Herschel enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter when he is not learning.
Shlomo was born over twenty years ago in New York. He attended Edison Yeshiva in New Jersey before coming to Midrash Shmuel over two years ago. When he is not learning, Shlomo enjoys playing ball, working out and chilling with friends.
Reb Yaakov, one of the longest standing members of Midrash Shmuel (13 years and counting), was born in Gibraltar. During his High School days he lived in Manchester, before joining Midrash Shmuel. When he is not learning or helping guys, Reb Yaakov enjoys spending time with his wife and children.
Elli was born in Manchester over tewenty-three years ago. After graduating from Jewish Grammar School in Manchester, Elli then made his way to Israel to study at Yeshiva for a year. After completing a year of study in Yeshiva, Elli then returned to Manchester to study Ecommerce at the Manchester College of Arts. He then studied another year in Israel, and shortly after made his way to Medrash Shmuel. Elli enjoys hiking, soccer, chess, and most of all enjoys his learning.
Elrum was born in Johanessburg in 1988 and attended Yeshiva College and Toras Emes High School. He has been learning for two wonderful years in Midrash Shmuel. Outside of learning Torah, Elrum enjoys playing sports and spending quailty time with his friends.
Avrohom was born just over twenty two years ago in Miami, Florida. For High School Avrohom attended Toras Chaim in Miami and then joined Midrash Shmuel. While learning in the yeshiva, Avrohom married and moved in to the Midrash Shmuel Kollel. Avrohom enjoys working out and swimming in the waters of Miami.
Josh was born in England and attended the Hasmonean school. After high school, he played the Unreal Tournament and toured the Alps. When not learning Torah, Josh enjoys studying Jewish geography.
Articles by Reb Josh Bennett
Reb Elitzur Benshalom
Elitzur Ben -Shalom was born in Jerusalem and has been learning in Midrash Shmuel for the past four and a half years.
Eli was born in Venezuela 20 years ago. His parents then moved to Miami where he has since lived. In Miami he attended Yeshiva Elementary School of Miami for elementary school, and Yeshivas Toras Chaim, for high school. He is now enjoying his second highly prosperous year in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel. On his spare time he enjoys playing American Football and Basketball.
Isi was born in Venezuala but has lived most of his life in Miami. He went to primary school at Toras Emes Academy of Miami and high school at Toras Chaim of Miami Beach. He then came to Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel where he has been for the past 5 years. In his spare time Isi plays basketball, goes to the beach, and plays the guitar. His favorite color is blue.
Moshe Dovid was born in LondonEngland, where he attended HasmoneanHigh School. Moshe Dovid then advanced in Talmudic studies at Sunderland Yeshiva in Gateshead for two years, after which he then came to Misrash Shmuel to further continue and enrich his Talmudic studies. Moshe Dovid only started learning Mishnayos three months ago and is very happy that he is now three quarters through Shas. Moshe Dovid enjoyes taking care of young children, playing computer games, watching and playing soccer, cycling, and of course the great out doors.
Pini was born in Israel in 1988 and he grew up in Jerusalem. He attended Ma'arava High School and subsequently came to learn in Midrash Shmuel. Pini enjoys learning Torah, reading, and playing strategy games.
Avrohom was born in Johannesburg, South Africa 21 years ago and lived there most of his life. He attended Primary and High School at Yeshivas Darchei Noam, formerly known as Yeshivas Shaa’re Torah in Johannesburg. He is nearing the end of his fourth successful year at Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel.
Simon was born in England almost nineteen years ago. He attended Menorah Grammar School before emigrating to Australia with his family where they now reside. Simon has a wide range of interests and hobbies including piano and singing, dabbling in magic and juggling devil sticks etc etc etc. Simon also played, this year, an active role in Counterpoint, a Sydney camp intent on bringing the students of Moriah College closer to their heritage.
Meir is 24 years old and eons ago, he attended Menorah Grammer School. Aside from learning Torah as much as he can, Meir enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
Avi was born in Jerusalem in 1984 and attended Maarava high school, followed by a year at R' Zvi Kushelevsky's yeshiva, before coming to Midrash Shmuel four years ago. He has lived in Sanhedria Hamurchevet until this day. Outside of the beis hamedrash, Avi enjoys playing sports.
Daniel Braude was born 27 years ago in Johannesburg, South Africa. He finished High School at King David Linskfield. From there, he completed a postgraduate Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy at the University of Johannesburg. He then did Accountancy articles and subsequently qualified as a Chartered Accountant, after which he went into full time learning - he spent a few months at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem and Yeshiva Gedola of Johannesburg and has been at Medrash Shmuel since 2006. In his spare time, he loves playing squash, going for voice training, and having a profitable dabble on the Stock Market.
Josh Braun was born in South Africa in 1984. He attended Yeshivas Sha'arei Torah/Darchei Noam for High school after which he learnt in R' Goldfein's Yeshiva and Yeshivas Ateres Yisrael in Bayit Vegan, Yerushalayim. Currently he is in his fourth year of study at Midrash Shmuel.
Dovid was brought up in Edgware, London where he attended Mill Hill County High followed by the Hasmonean High School. After graduating with three A's for A-Levels, Dovid studied for a year in a Yeshiva in Jerusalem before matriculating at St John's College, Cambridge. Three years later Dovid graduated with a first in law and then made his way to Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for nearly six years. Dovid has been giving a popular halacha shiur to Aliyos Shmuel participants, of all ages, from the commencement of the program. When he is not spending time with his wife and two daughters, Dovid enjoys learning, listening to classical and Jewish music, running, cycling, and playing football.
Harry was born just over nineteen years ago in Hampstead, London. Harry grew up in Belsize Park and attended JFS High School in London. Harry joined Midrash Shmuel a year ago and is set on accomplishing a second, solid year. Harry enjoys climbing rooftops, he loves tabletennis, and has an interest in martial arts. Harry owns a dog called Sam, a tortoise called Peer veer, three gerbils (which used to be five but two were eaten by the pet cat called Norman) and a guinea pig called pig. In 1962, Harry's dad took the fourth place in the Eurovision Song Contest for the UK.
Daniel was born in London nineteen years ago and after graduating Hasmonean High School, he came to learn in Midrash Shmuel. Daniel enjoys dancing, skiing, and acting. He is especially proud of his outstanding performance in the 2007 Midrash Shmuel Purim Shpiel.
Yaakov was born in Hendon, London just over twenty years ago. He attended the Hasmonean High School and after graduating made his way for a brief spell to Yeshivat Kerem BeYavneh here in Israel. Yaakov then moved on to Midrash Shmuel where he has just entered his third year. Among Yaakov's many talents, he possesses outstanding vocal abilities, inspiring many of his listeners. Yaakov excels in indepth analysis of Talmudic texts and is a keen producer of discourses on Talmud and Jewish thought. Yaakov also enjoys playing football and table tennis. With his warm smile, caring nature and overt personality, Yaakov is a joy to all who know him.
Ari grew up in Bayswater, Far Rockaway. He attended Yeshiva Darchei Torah for eleven years and Yeshivas Ner Yisroel, Baltimore, for three years. Ari then joined Midrash Shmuel and he has recently began his fourth year. Ari enjoys music a great deal, dancing, a fat steak (medium well) and keeping Midrash Shmuel students on their toes with his neverending shananigans. Ari has spent three summers volunteering at Chai Lifeline's Camp Simcha, a responsiblity which he takes with him into the rest of the year. Ari plans to become a pediatric physical therapist which he will begin pursuing in January. His motivation being the teaching he has received at Midrash Shmuel - to take his strengths and utilize them to better and help the Jewish people.
Ayal is a member of the kollel of Midrash Shmuel. From London, he attended Menorah Grammer School, after which he went to the Gateshead yeshiva for two years followed by a year in yeshiva in Har Nof, Jerusalem. When not learning Torah, Ayal enjoys football, reading, and playing computer games. A noteworthy accomplishment of Ayal's is that he has managed to stay in full-time Torah learning for nearly eight years.
Articles by Reb Ayal Dor-chay
Mendy Dym
Mendy was born in Monsey where he attended Chofetz Chaim. After graduating high school with outstanding results in his SAT’s he came to Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for the past two years. Mendy enjoys pondering about life, driving, hiking, playing American football, painting, and learning Chassidus. Mendy genuinely feels that Midrash Shmuel has equipped him with the necessary learning skills to learn at an advanced level.
Hillel was born over twenty years ago in a small town right outside the Five Towns, New York. Hillel attended Yeshiva Darchei Torah during his High School years and after graduation, came to learn in Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for three years. Hillel enjoys all types of sports, learning Talmud and chilling with Midrash Shmuel faculty. Hillel is tall, dark and handsome (and modest).
Yanky was born in Flatbush, New York 20 years ago. Growing up in Flatbush he attended Yeshivas Torah V’Daas for primary school and Yeshivas Toras Emes for high school. He has enjoyed 3 highly successful years in Israel in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel. During his free time Yankie enjoys playing Ultimate and basketball. Yanky does not have a favorite color but if he had to choose one, it would be yellow.
Ezra Elzas was born in Amstelveen, Holland, in 1990. He attended The Cheider School in Amsterdam, and joined Midrash Shmuel in Elul 2007. Ezra enjoys playing sports, reading and music.
Nafti was born in Switzerland over twenty four years ago. After graduating the Swiss school system, Nafti made his way out to Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning ever since. Nafti has also qualified as a teacher in Yerushalayim. When he is not learning, Nafti enjoys spending time with his wife and twin boys, especially in Netanya.
Darren was born in London 21 years ago. His family moved to Miami where he spent most of his life. He went to school at the Mechina of Miami Beach. He has since enjoyed 3 extremely successful years in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel. Darren enjoys playing football and reading on his spare time.
Freddie was born in London in 1989 and grew up there until moving to Israel with his family at the age of 16. He attended Menorah Grammer School and is currently learning in Midrash Shmuel. Freddie is a professional classical pianist and has been playing piano since the age of 4. He also enjoys rocketry and being a magician.
Natan was born in Jerusalem over twenty two years ago. At the tender age of three and a half, Natan's family moved to Manchester. Natan attended Manchester Jewish Grammar before moving onto Gateshead Yeshiva in England where he spent two years. From Gateshead he moved to Midrash Shmuel and has now just entered his fourth year in Midrash Shmuel. When he's not learning, Natan enjoys playing and watching sport, especially cricket as well as football. Last year Natan played a central role in the Yom Kippur services that Aliyos Shmuel provide for students at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, leading the Yom Kippur services. Natan will also be leading the services this coming Yom Kippur.
Reb Yoel was born over 27 years ago. He attended the Hasmonean High School before spending a number of years at different Yeshivos, both in the UK and in Israel. Yoel is an avid footballer and also enjoys spending time with his family. Yoel considers one of his greatest accomplishments staying put in a Yeshiva (in this case Midrash Shmuel) for an extended period of time!
Bezalel is 28 years old and he was born in France. He attended the Franco-German School in Saarbruecken, Germany, after which he studied engineering at the EPF in Paris. He received a Masters in engineering and a second Masters in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia. He then worked as a management consultant for three years. Outside of learning, Bezalel enjoys being a licensed scuba diver and traveling. Very significantly, at the young age of 27, Bezalel began learning Talmud.
Chaim grew up in Stamford Hill, London, and attended Menorah High School in Golders Green. After graduating from Menorah, Chaim moved on to Gateshead Yeshiva where he learned for just over three years before moving to Midrash Shmuel. Chaim is a keen photographer and some of his work appears on this website.
Yochanan grew up in Golders Green, London, attending Highgate School. Upon graduating from York University with a degree in politics, Yochanan went to Israel searching for spiritual meaning. He found it in yeshiva in Jerusalem and has since been learning in Midrash Shmuel for over two years. Yochanan enjoys playing the violin and sailing.
Eli was born in London over nineteen years ago. After graduating from Center Academy Eli made his was to Medrash Shmuel which has enabled him to now translate Gemara. Eli enjoys listening to music, playing hockey, Ninjitsu, and roller blading. Eli is extremely proud of his accomplishments thus far in Medrash Shmuel and is looking forward to a fruitful summer zman.
Aryeh was born seventeen years ago in Los Angeles, California. Aryeh attended Valley Torah High School in Los Angeles and joined Midrash Shmuel a year ago. Aryeh enjoys surfing and exercising in his free time.
Dovid was born in New Jersey twenty years ago. After graduating from Edison High school Dovid made his was straight to Medrash Shmuel, and is now in his third year and counting. Dovid enjoys playing football, soccer, basketball, and tennis. When not learning Dovid can be found working out or hanging with the boys.
Avi was born over twenty five years ago in North West London. He attended Menorah Grammer school and after graduating spent three years in Merkaz HaTorah Yeshiva in Jerusalem. Avi then completed a four year Computing degree in City University in London before returning to Israel where he has just joined Midrash Shmuel. When he is not learning, Avi enjoys walking, listening to Jewish music and computing related matters.
Elazar is a 23 year old from Johannesburg, South Africa. Before coming to Midrash Shmuel he attended Torah Academy and Shaarei Torah, filling the role of deputy head boy for limudei Kodesh. Outside of learning Torah, Elazar enjoys lifting weights, running, hiking, cycling, and boogy boarding.
Rabbi Jeremy Gaines is a veteran Midrash Shmuel avreich who teaches textual Talmud skills to the mature students division of Aliyos Shmuel. Rabbi Gaines possesses a special understanding of how to introduce adult beginners to the process of reading, and translating the text of the Talmud.
Natan is 22 years old and he is from London, England. After attending Menorah Grammer School, he went to Yeshivas Ezras Torah in Manchester for two years. He has now completed two years in Midrash Shmuel. Outside of learning Torah, Natan enjoys playing sports.
Aaron was born in Chayfa Israel, and then moved to South Africa, nineteen years ago. After graduating from Tores Enes College in Johannesberg he then made his was to study in Medrash Shmuel, where is has just completed his first winter zman. Aaron enjoys playing soccer, cricket, and listening to music.
Teniel was born in North Wales and has been living in Israel since 2000. He has been learning in the Midrash Shmuel kollel for four years. In addition to learning Torah, Teniel is a computer programmer for a financial broker in the afternoon and enjoys playing the clarinet as well.
Reb Yaakov was born over thirty years ago and grew up in Queens, New York. After graduating MTA Yeshiva University High School for boys, Reb Yaakov made his way to Israel where he spent a number of years in Yeshivat Reishit Yerushalayim. Following Yeshiva, Reb Yaakov graduated from Queens College with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. He then made his way back to Israel and has been learning in the Midrash Shmuel Kollel for nearly six years as well as giving a shiur to the first year boys for the last three years. Reb Yaakov was also instrumental in setting up the Yom Kippur services at Hebrew University run by Midrash Shmuel. When he is not spending quality time with his wife and children, Yaakov enjoys playing golf, playing tennis and riding his bicycle.
Natie was born on Parshas Ki Tavoh 21 years ago. He spent 18 years in London before joining Midrash Shmuel. Natie has decided to make Eretz Yisroel his home and is starting his fourth year in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel. During his spare time, Natie loves singing and watching football. His favourite team is Manchester United.
Shuey Hamaoui was born in New York in 1984. He attended The Yeshiva of Far Rockaway for High School . He then attended Midrash Shmuel for 2 years after which he returned for a short period to YFR. He later took the post of Maggid Shiur at R' Chait's Yeshiva in Virginia. Currently he is learning in the Yeshiva of Five Towns.
Oliver is 25 years old and came to learn this summer at Midrash Shmuel. He attended Oxford University, following which he studied in a few yeshivas and completed a graduate diploma in Law. Oliver enjoys learning, walking & cycling, and playing board games. His major accomplishment thus far is being married. Oliver is the proud brother-in-law of Reb Meir Blake of the Midrash Shmuel kollel.
'Hasdai est ne a Strasbourg en 1992 ou il etudie a la yechiva Eshel. Cette ete 2007 il est venu etudier en Eretz Yisroel a la yechiva Midrash Shmuel. Quand il prend une pause de ses etudes, il aime jouer aux sports et faire des siestes.
Shua was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, some twenty one years ago. Shua attended Darchei Noam High School and after graduating made his way to Israel where after spending a brief spell at another Jerusalem Yeshiva, joined Midrash Shmuel two years ago. When he is not learning, Shua enjoys braais, chilling out with friends and a good game of cricket or soccer.
Rabbi Jonathan Hughes is a remarkable example of the type of accomplishment that Midrash Shmuel can foster. Rabbi Hughes joined Midrash Shmuel before Aliyos Shmuel even opened, and was able to make huge strides in his Torah learning and all round integration of Jewish knowledge. Rabbi Hughes, with his quick sharp mind and exquisite sense of humor, has acquired a special clarity in sound Torah philosophy and is strongly motivated to share the profound truth of Torah with all Jews.
Natan was born in New York and moved to Israel when he was five years old. He attended Nehorah High School and has been learning in Midrash Shmuel for the past seven years. Natan got married in March 2006. In addition to learning Torah, Natan is a professional singer and enjoys playing basketball too.
Rabbi Michael Jacob, originally from California, is an experienced educator. Previously, he ran a yeshiva high school for Russian Jewish boys in Denmark, while establishing an outreach network there. Rabbi Jacob lives in Telz Stone with his family.
Avi was born in London over twenty three years ago. He attended Hasmonean High School and since graduating he has learned in a number of yeshivos. Avi has now been in Midrash Shmuel for almost four years. Avi enjoys playing football and his favourite colour is grey.
Aharon was born in Johannesburg in 1985 and attended Shaarei Torah High School. He has been learning in Midrash Shmuel for the past four and a half years. Aside from learning Torah, Aharon enjoys soccer, guitar, going to the beach, and a good B-B-Q.
Pinny was born in New York back in 1977. He achieved Yeshiva Far Rockaway for High School and learned there for one year in the Bais HaMidrash. Pinny then made his way out to Eretz Yisroel where he joined Midrash Shmuel and his been learning here ever since. When he's not spending time with his wife and children or learning, Pinny enjoys carpentry and sculpting fruit.
Ezra was born and raised in Montville, New Jersey. After graduating from High School, Ezra attended Military College, travelled through the former Soviet Union and eventually graduated from McGill University, Montreal, Canada, with a BA in Russian Language and Literature and Humanistic Studies (Liberal Arts). While in University, Ezra became religious and began to develop and grow in his Jewish observance. After graduating from McGill University, Ezra moved to Israel where he spent a brief time in several Yeshivos and extended time in Ulpanim. Ezra then started a Masters at Hebrew University, Har HaTzofim, Jerusalem. While at Hebrew U, Ezra began attending classes at the Jeff Seidel Student Center given by one of the Rebbeim of Aliyos Shmuel. He then started to learn on a bi-weekly basis with one of the members of the MIdrash Shmuel Kollel and within a year joined Midrash Shmuel on a full time basis and has now entered his second year. Ezra enjoys learning Torah, reading extensively and challenging intellectual stimulation.
Born in Staten Island, Josh spent his youth and teenage years there. He attended R.J.J. for Elementary School and Y.T.T. for High School. He then spent three prosperous years in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel. He then spent 5 semesters studying sciences in College of Staten Island and learning in Yeshivas Pe’er Hatorah. After getting married he has come back to Midrash Shmuel to learn in kollel.
A naturally gifted athlete Josh enjoys American Football, Baseball and Basketball, and has played Football for the Israel National Team.
Jonathan was born in Manchester twenty-three years ago. After graduating from Kind David School first in his class, Jonathan began to study Medicine at the Manchester Medical School. Three years later he then made his way to Israel to study at Medrash Shmuel, and has been doing so for the past two years. Jonathan enjoys playing football and pool.
Alister was born in Edgware over seventeen years ago. He attended Menorah Grammar school before making his way out to Midrash Shmuel. When Alister is not learning he enjoys reading and playing football.
Nissan was born some twenty three years ago into a Rabbinic family - Nissan's maternal grandfather was an acclaimed Torah scholar who taught for many years in the famous Chaim Berlin Yeshiva in New York. Nissan graduated from Chofetz Chaim High School in Brooklyn before joining Midrash Shmuel. Nissan, affectionately known as the 'Lollipopa Rebbe', is notorious for handing out candies to young and old alike, putting a smile on everyone's faces.
David was born in New York and moved with his family to Israel at the tender age of ten. After high school in Israel, David joined Midrash Shmuel where he has now been learning for nearly seven years. When David is not spending time with his wife and son, Moshe, he enjoys writing, playing and listening to music - one of his outstanding talents. David also gives a daily gemora shiur to the students of Aliyos Shmuel, challenging their minds and developing their skills.
Reb Zev was born in Kew Gardens Hills, New York twenty five years ago. Zev is a long standing member of Midrash Shmuel and now, following his marriage nearly three years ago, learns in the Midrash Shmuel Kollel. Zev enjoys learning Kaballah. He is also a maggid shiur and a well respected speaker in Midrash Shmuel.
Simi was born and raised in Edgware, England. He attended Menorah Grammar School and after graduating, he moved to Israel and spent a year in a Jerusalem Yeshiva before moving onto Midrash Shmuel for this year. Simi is an avid martial arts enthusiast and enjoys many different sports. In England he ran a youth group, putting his capabilities to good use.
It all started on an unbelievable day around twenty-one years ago when the world was blessed with a beautiful young child who subsequently grew up to be known as Mel. Mel spent four years in Yeshiva Darchei Torah where he learned, had a lot of fun, and left with friends who will last forever. Mel then made an awesome decision to go to Midrash Shmuel where he still finds himself four years later… and who knows how many more?! Mel enjoys having a good time playing football and ultimate frisbee, grabbing any opportunity to break dance, and giving chaburas in Gemara as well as his weekly hashkafa va’ad. Mel also likes long walks....in the beis hamidrash.
Yeshaya was born in New York City over twenty five years ago. After graduating High School, Yeshaya spent a year in yeshiva in Israel and then returned to America to attend University and work. Yeshaya graduated from Baruch College with a degree in Industrial and Organisational Psychology. While in University, Yeshaya was heavily involved in outreach work. Yeshaya then returned to Israel in 2005 where he joined Aliyos Shmuel and six months later, moved into Midrash Shmuel. Yeshaya enjoys chilling out, inspiring people and travelling.
Rabbi Lyons was born in Johannesburg and raised in the Waverly community. Just after his barmitzvah, Rabbi Lyons became religious and throughout his teenage years developed and grew in his Judaism. For High School he attended the King David School, Victory Park, and after graduating in 1991 he went for a year to Yeshivat Shiloh in Israel where he learned and was trained as a communal leader. Following his year in Yeshiva, Rabbi Lyons returned to South Africa where he learned under Rabbi Azriel C Goldfine, the Rosh HaYeshiva of Yeshiva Gedolah in Johannesburg. There Rabbi Lyons received his Semicha while obtaining an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in accounting and auditing through the University of South Africa. After leaving Yeshiva Gedolah, Rabbi Lyons worked for three years in accountancy at Deloitte, South Africa, before heading out to Israel and joining Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for eighteen months as well as tutoring older married men. Prior to leaving South Africa, Rabbi Lyons was also involved in outreach programs in South Africa. Rabbi Lyons enjoys learning Torah, playing most sports (especially skiing), chess and various board games with a keen ear for music along with an appreciation for art and culture. Rabbi Lyons also enjoys interacting with participants on outreach programs.
Adam was born over nineteen years ago in London. He attended the Hasmonean High School before coming to learn in Israel. He recently joined Midrash Shmuel and just became an uncle for the second time.
Adam was born in
London. He is 19 years old and went to primary school in the
Chigwell
School, in the
village of
Chigwell just northeast of
London. After completing his first year of a theology degree at
Durham
University he has come to Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel for the summer to learn. In his spare time Adam enjoys playing
Rugby and Badminton. He is also a classical musician who plays the Double Bass.
Eli was born over twenty years ago and attended Yeshiva Chaim Berlin for High School. After graduating from Yeshiva Chaim Berlin, Eli moved to Midrash Shmuel where he has now just entered his third year. Eli enjoys learning Torah and dancing.
Benji Miller was born in Toronto, Ontario, 21 years ago. Following High School, Benji moved on to yeshiva where he has now been learning for three years. Benji enjoys taking long walks along the beach.
Yair was born in Johannesberg some twenty one years ago. He attended the Darchei Noam High School and then made his way out to Ohr Somayach in Israel before moving onto Midrash Shmuel. Yair rather enjoys reading and learning.
Shmuel was born in Monsey, NY, just over eighteen years ago. Shmuel attended the Chofetz Chaim High School in Monsey and following his graduation just a few months ago, joined Midrash Shmuel. Shmuel enjoys basketball among other sports and listening to rock music.
Yakov Yisroel Neumann was born in Brooklyn in 1986. He made the big move to Israel with his whole family in 1993. He has been learning in Midrash Shmuel since 2006. In his spare time, Yakov enjoys socializing, sports, and art.
Yitzchok Ornstien was born in Zurich 1986, he visited primary school in Zurich untill 14 years and went together with his twin brother to a Jewish high school in Strasbourg France in 2002 for five years. This Elul he came to Midrash Shmuel. Yitzchok enjoys the “unique learning atmosphere” in the yeshiva. Besides learning, his hobbies are playing tennis and talking to friends.
Yisroel grew up in Brooklyn, New York, attending Mesivta Ateres Yaakov. Following High School, he joined Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel, where he learned untill his wedding four years later. Following his wedding, Yisroel returned to the Yeshiva as a member of the Kollel while working on his Masters Degree. Yisroel has a Masters Degree in Social Work and specialises in special education. Yisroel is a prominent member of the Kollel and enjoys sports, computers and cooking.
David Port hails from down under, where he attended Bialik College, Melbourne. Following Bialik College, he spent a wopping eight years at university, where he acquired an MA in clinical psychology and a graduate diploma in teaching. After some time working with learning disabled children, counselling university students, running workshops for overcoming anxiety, and teaching secular and Jewish studies, David set out for yeshiva. David, who enjoys sports, nature and travelling, joined Midrash Shmuel recently after several years in other yeshivas.
Monish was born in the sprawling metropolis of Manchester. He attended Manchester Jewish Grammar for High School where he graduated with A levels. After finishing High School, Monish joined Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for three years. When he is not learning, Monish enjoys playing guitar (having taught guitar in the past) and chilling out with friends.
Reb Pinchos was born over twenty seven years ago in Manchester. After leaving Manchester Jewish Grammar, he made his way to Midrash Shmuel, where after a short spell away, is now learning in the Kollel. Reb Pinchos enjoys playing cricket, walking and running as well as spending time with his wife and daughters.
Avi Rubner was born 18 years ago in the Whittington hospital, in London and grew up in Stamford Hill. After spending the first 11 years of his life in Avigdor Primary School (may it rest in peace) he moved on to further his education in the Hasmonean. Whilst at the Hasmonean he learned a lot. Beside studying stuff he also had a keen interest in business, and, together with a partner, set up snack-shack®, a food on the go initiative for the kosher market (anyone requiring info, email snack-shack@hotmail.co.uk). During this time, he heard of Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel and set his mind on attending the yeshiva.
At present, Avi is studying diligently at Midrash Shmuel, learning more and more each day.
Ari attended Darchei Noam high school in South Africa, after which he went to learn in Gateshead for a year before coming to Midrash Shmuel. Outside of his learning, Ari enjoys sports, fishing, and a good day at the beach.
Uri, born in London, is nearly 21 years old. He attended Menorah Grammer School as well as Hasmonean High School in London. Uri enjoys learning, cricket, tennis, rugby, and crossword puzzles. Some of his accomplishments are being gabbai of Midrash Shmuel and making aliyah this year.
Dani was born in 1986 in Johannesberg, South Africa. He attended Toras Emes High School and after spending a year in another Jerusalem Yeshiva, Dani joined Midrash Shmuel. Dani is currently in his second year in the Yeshiva. Dani enjoys thinking, music in every form and running. Dani has a pet tortoise who he found walking around in Har Nof. Dani thanks G-d that Midrash Shmuel exists.
David grew up in Golders Green, London, where he attended Hasmonean High School . After graduating from Hasmo, David came to Midrash Shmuel where he has now been learning for over five years. David has just celebrated his years anniversary and lives in Rechavia, Yerushalayim. David plays the keyboard and enjoys writing, producing regular parsha sheets. David is currently writing a book exploring Nachmanidies commentaries on the Torah.
Shimon Shenker grew up in Lichfield, almost the smallest city in the UK (it has a cathedral) with a Jewish population of four. He took A levels at school and afterwards spent five years working as an accountant. When that got too exciting he came to learn in Midrash Shmuel, where he has been ever since.
Rabbi Shooter was born in London and after finishing Hasmonean High School he spent the next few years in yeshiva and in university, graduating from the London School of Economics with a degree in Economics. Rabbi Shooter than joined Midrash Shmuel where he has now been learning for seven years. Rabbi Shooter gives regular classes in Tefillah and Jewish Outlook in Aliyos Shmuel as well as giving classes in Midrash Shmuel. Rabbi Shooter is an accomplished author having written two books on the weekly parsha. Rabbi Shooter lives in Ramat Beit Shemesh with his wife Shoshana and four children.
David Simon was born in 1982. Following a Jewish day school education, he studied for a masters in mechanical engineering with business finance at University College, London. He then came to Israel to study in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel where he is currently a student. His hobbies include cricket, tennis and football.
Reb Joel was born in London nearly thirty years ago. He grew up in West London and attended the Jewish Free School in Camden. After finishing high school, Joel attended Universities York and Birmingham where he earned his degrees in computer science and English literature. Joel joined the Midrash Shmuel Kollel almost two years ago. When not learning, Joel enjoys spending time with his family.
Daniel Soffer has 23 years of life experience. and regards his survival of five years as a student at Midrash Shmuel as his highest accomplishment so far. He previously attended Yeshiva College of Southern Africa and would like it mentioned that he especially enjoys writing poetry.
Reb Zevi Stern was born in Broolkyn in 1983. A graduate of the YTT High School in Staten Island, New York , he attended Midrash Shmuel for 3 years.
He then returned to New York and continued his studies there. Currently he is in the Midrash Shmuel Kollel.
Gilan was born in Johannesberg where he grew up and attended the King David High School. After High School, Gilan went to University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. Post University, Gilan made his way out to Israel where he studied in Ohr Somayach for a year. He then moved to Midrash Shmuel, got married and has been learning in the Kollel since. When he is not learning, Gilan enjoys socialising with friends and spending time with his family (Gilan's daughter is 16 months).
Shimon Tager, who was brought up in London and enjoyed a life time of commercial business enterprises in several parts of England, has now retired to live in Israel and study daily at Midrash Shmuel. Reb Shimon lived in Gateshead and Manchester where he has been heavily involved, on a voluntary basis, in building Jewish Educational institutions and undertaking to assist various kinds of communal work at various levels to help build world recognised Jewish cultural enterprises.
Having come from an illustrious line of Rabbi's, Reb Shimon who has now resorted to retiring and enjoying a life times dream of settling in Jerusalem and increasing his Torah learning, has found the daily Yeshiva life at Midrash Shmuel fits the bill very well as well as being increasingly inspiring.
Aryeh was born over twenty one years ago in London and attended the Hasmonean High School. After graduating, Aryeh made his way out to Midrash Shmuel where he is about to complete his third year of learning.
Reuven was born in London, Golders Green. He is nearly twenty-one years old. Reuven attended Hasmonean high School in London and gradated with high grades. Reuven together with his brother is now studying in Yeshivas Medrash Shumel. He has an interest in Karate and has achieved a high belt in the martial art.
Yaakov was born in 1987, London and grew up in Golders Green. He completed seven years in Hasmonean High School and graduated with A-Levels. Yaakov is now learning in Yeshivas Medrash shumel together with his brother. He enjoys karate and has achieved first kyu level in karate.
Ephraim was born in Detroit, Michigan, over twenty five years ago. Ephraim graduated from Belmar Yeshiva of New Jersey before attending Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for over five years. Ephraim recently met his wife Dena from Woodmere, New York, and they married just seven months ago. When he is not learning or spending time with his wife, Ephraim enjoys building and helping people.
Shlomo did not want to have a profile written about him, but we would like to say that Shlomo is one of Midrash Shmuel's outstanding students and a great asset to the yeshiva.
Akiva was born 17 years ago in Toronto, Canada, where he has lived his whole life. He attended Elementary School at the Toronto Cheder and then went to the Talmudical Academy of Adelphia, New Jersey. In his first year in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel he has already begun realizing his potential.
Oren was born over twenty one years ago in Manhattan, New York. At the tender age of eleven, Oren made Aliyah with his family to Eretz Yisroel. After attending Israeli High School, Oren joined Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for the last five years. Oren enjoys playing Ultimate, basketball, and working out. Oren has green eyes and is still available!
Yosh was born over eighteen years ago in Queens, New York. After moving to Lawrence in Five Towns, Yosh moved with his family to Israel at the tender age of eight. Yosh attended Nehora Yeshiva High School and having just graduated a few months ago, joined Midrash Shmuel. Yosh enjoys chilling out with friends and playing Ultimate. Yosh enjoys singing and is part of the Midrash Shmuel choir for the High Holy days.
Avi was born over twenty three years ago in New York City. He attended Mesivta Yesodei Yeshurun for High School and then moved on to Jerusalem, joining Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for over four years. Recently wed, when Avi is not learning or spending time with his wife, he makes sure to utilise his artistic, musical and cullinary talents. Avi is an experienced mandalin player.
Eli was born in the New York of New York - Manhattan, over twenty two years ago. After graduating from Torah Vodaath High School and spending a year in Zichron Meir, Mountaindale, Eli joined Midrash Shmuel where he has been learning for almost four years. Besides learning, Eli enjoys cooking (especially cooking cholent) and playing ball.
Nathan est ne 1992 a Strasbourg. Il etudie a la yechiva d'Eshel a Strasbourg ou il a complete sa premiere annee. Il est venu en Eretz Yisrael pour l’ete 2007 pour etudier a la yechiva de Midrash Shmuel. Quand il n’est pas au beit midrash, il aime jouer au foot et ecouter la musique.
Daniel was born in London 25 years ago. He attended the Sinai Elementary School throughout Primary School, and then went to the Jewish Free School (JFS) in London for High School. Daniel then attended University College of London (UCL) where he earned his degree. He has been Learning in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel for over a year. In his spare time Daniel enjoys cycling and playing football.
Uri Zakhejm ist aus Zürich (Schweiz) und kam nach Abschluss des Gymasiums nach Midrash Shmuel. Nachdem er 4 Jahre bei uns als Bachur gelernt hatte, heiratete er und ist nun bei uns im Kollel. Abwechselnd mit einem Freund schreibt er den שיעור des ראש הישיבה per Computer nieder (in Englisch), was für die Bachurim eine grosse Hilfe darstellt.
Rafi was born in London over 19 years ago. He attended primary school at Pardes House in London and high school at JFS. He is happily starting his second year in Yeshivas Midrash Shmuel this Elul. Rafi enjoys learning Torah and playing football. When asked his favorite color, his reply was: "I am a fan of all colors."
Josh Zneimer was born in London in 1985. He attended The Hasmonean High School after which he learnt for a year in Yeshivas Mercaz Hatorah in Yerushalayim. Currently he is in Midrash Shmuel.
Yechiel was born over twenty two years ago in Maimonides Hospital, New York. For High School Yechiel attended Toras Emes in Brooklyn and after graduating moved to Midrash Shmuel where he recently completed his fifth year of learning. When he is not learning, Yechiel enjoys playing basketball and football.
