For Chonon Geisinsky and Mendel Labkowsky, Chidon has never been a solo journey. These first cousins, close friends, and fellow shluchim in Maryland have navigated their way together through the international Sefer HaMitzvos competition from the very beginning.

Last year, their hard work paid off big time: having mastered all 613 Mitzvos, both boys became Kol HaTorah Kula (“KHK”) Finalists, took the stage as representatives, and returned home as KHK Trophy winners.

Chonon and Mendel’s Chidon story began in fourth grade when they joined the program together. Over the years, they continued to motivate and challenge each other—sometimes through learning together, and at other times, independently. Both agree that their friendship played a huge role in their journey. 

“Having a good friend in Chidon makes a difference. It pushes you, and at the same time, it makes the learning easier,” they explained.  “There were moments when one of us wasn’t so into it, and the other pushed him through.”

At times, their natural cousin rivalry added an extra layer of motivation as well, driving them to remain focused and do their best. 

“We were definitely competing,” the boys admitted with a laugh. “But in a way, that made us both stronger. It pushed us forward.”

The Strategies That Led to Success

Chidon offers diversified tracks for various types of learners. But regardless of the track, all Chidon participation requires extensive study, and Chonon and Mendel each developed their own techniques to master the material. 

Chonon would break down each paragraph into a single line before moving on, while Mendel focused on fully understanding each section prior to continuing. They quizzed each other regularly, identifying weak spots and reinforcing key details.

The two boys also found ways to integrate their Chidon learning into their daily lives. “We each live an hour away from school, so we would both take time to learn during the drive,” they noted. 

Their study habits—consistent, competitive, and supportive—helped them to stay on track. And knowing that their eighth grade year was their final one in Chidon, the cousins were determined to make it count. 

“We wanted to end off the five-year process on a high note, so we both tried extra hard this year.”

In both boys’ homes, Chidon season brings with it a unique atmosphere filled with learning and motivation. Each of their families have been deeply involved in Chidon over the years, and multiple siblings have previously earned trophies and stage representation. 

“When everyone around you is learning, it makes it much easier for you to learn, too,” Mendel reflected.

“There were also a lot of expectations,” acknowledged Chonon. “Since my older and younger brothers were both representatives, they expected me to do well. And Baruch Hashem, I did!”

However, while Chonon and Mendel had indeed each made it to the stage in previous years, neither of them had ever won a trophy. This was an achievement that they were determined to attain in the eighth grade round.

As Mendel described it: “Both of my older sisters got a trophy, and so did my younger brother. I really wanted one, too! This year was my last chance, so I worked really hard for it.”

And indeed, their families’ excitement when they both won was unmatched. “They were so excited and happy for us!” the cousins proudly remarked. 

With over 7,000 children from more than 300 schools and across 46 countries participating in the Chidon Sefer HaMitzvos last year, the stakes were high and the competition intense. But the cousin duo was not fazed by the challenge.

Throughout the rigorous tests and final exams, Chonon and Mendel showcased exceptional knowledge and a strong commitment to their learning.

Indeed, as students of Cheder Chabad Baltimore, Chonon and Mendel’s successes are a source of pride not just for themselves and their families, but for their entire school and community.

“You can really say ‘yagata u’matzasa’ (‘you’ve tried hard and succeeded’) about these boys,” affirmed local Chidon coordinator, Rabbi Dovid Leib Wilansky. “They are each a true dugma chaya—a living example—of what we all want our kids to grow up to be.”

When asked about the most rewarding part of Chidon, both cousins agreed: “Gaining the Torah knowledge—being able to say that we now know all 613 Mitzvos!—is definitely the best part.” 

Their advice for kids considering Chidon? 

“Chidon is awesome,” said Chonon. “Work hard, and B’ezras Hashem, you will succeed!” 

Mendel echoed his excitement. “It’s the best program. You get to learn and have fun. When you reach Kol HaTorah Kula and realize that you know all 613 Mitzvos, it feels great!”

As the cousins closed this chapter of their Chidon experience, they were sure to recognize the guidance that helped them along the way. “Rabbi Wilansky is great! He has been an incredible support throughout our Chidon journey, and was always on top of giving back the test marks on time. May everyone have a great coordinator like we did!”

Chonon and Mendel’s success tells of the power of education, dedication, and of nurturing our children with a love for learning. It serves as an inspiration for others to reach for the stars and pursue excellence in all that they do.

Chidon encourages families to celebrate this wonderful achievement and pursue ways to further support their children in all aspects of their Torah-true education. 

“Chidon is not just about building knowledge. It’s so much more!” enthuses Rabbi Shimmy Weinbaum, Chidon director. “It’s an incredible way to nurture your child’s sense of belonging, build motivation, and join a global community that values learning, growth, and the timeless teachings of the Torah.

“Let’s continue to inspire and empower the next generation—in Baltimore and around the world!”

Chonon and Mendel’s time on stage may have ended last year, but their Chidon journey didn’t. Their families continue to wear the Chidon mantle proudly, and their younger siblings continue to learn for Chidon, following their example.

This Thursday, the grand Siyum HaMitzvos takes place once again—and this time, it is Chonon’s brother Moshe who will step onto the stage, proudly representing Cheder Chabad Baltimore in the game show.

Tune in to watch on 1 Nissan (March 19) at 11:00 AM EDT at thechidon.com, and join us in celebrating the limmud haTorah these children invest in.