The stunning resort city of Sochi, nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, was the setting for an uplifting four-day conference for Chabad-Lubavitch Shluchos from Russia and the countries of the former Soviet Union.

From 8–11 Cheshvan, over 250 Shluchos from Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and beyond gathered for an extraordinary program of inspiration and unity. The conference was held under the theme “Yesh Sachar L’Peulasech — There is reward for your work, and your children shall return to their borders: Shlichus with gratitude and joy”, in honor of the yahrzeit of Rachel Imeinu on 11 Cheshvan.

Hosted at the luxurious Mantera Resort & Congress, the conference offered days filled with learning, introspection, and strengthening of the Shlichus mission. Participants enjoyed a rich and varied program including lectures, workshops, training sessions, and farbrengens with top educators and mentors from across Russia and around the world.

Central to the program was the focus on “your work” — understanding that every act a Shlucha performs, whether large or small, carries tremendous spiritual value. The participants were reminded that even their very presence as Shluchos is itself a source of merit and reward.

One of the highlights was a special session with Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, who devoted over an hour to an open conversation with the Shluchos. He addressed contemporary issues in Jewish family life, education, and halachic challenges in Shlichus, and encouraged them to continue their sacred work with dedication and joy.

“The strength of a Shlucha,” said Rabbi Lazar, “is not only in what she does, but in the light she radiates — in her home, her family, and her community.”

The session left participants empowered with practical tools for self-growth, resilience, and positive perspective — to face challenges with faith and happiness.

Shabbos was filled with spiritual delight and heartfelt farbrengens, led by the renowned mashpia Rabbi Asher Farkash of Argentina. His inspiring talks focused on the inner power of every Shlucha to bring joy and light wherever she is.

On Motzei Shabbos, Rabbi Farkash delivered the keynote address at the moving banquet, emphasizing that “the joy of the Shlucha is her greatest tool to transform the world.”

The banquet opened with heartfelt remarks by Rebbetzin Chana Lazar, who spoke about the privilege and responsibility of being on Shlichus, and the deep bond uniting Shluchos everywhere. She encouraged the women to live their mission with happiness and gratitude — beginning with thanking Hashem for the many blessings in their lives.

The evening culminated in an outburst of dance and joy, led by Mrs. Zaldi Bloom from “Kacha Osim Sameach”, whose energetic spirit swept the crowd into celebration.

Running parallel to the main event was a special track for young girls — the daughters of the Shluchos. Many of these girls study year-round in an online school for Shluchos’ children, and this was their opportunity to meet their classmates face to face. The girls enjoyed a Chassidic, fun-filled program including trips, classes, and creative workshops — an experience they’ll long remember.

The entire gathering was hosted by Rabbi Sholom and Rebbetzin Hindi Lazar, Shluchim in Sochi, who ensured every detail — from logistics to atmosphere — was handled with warmth and care. Their dedication created a true family spirit felt throughout the conference.

As the event concluded, the Shluchos returned home refreshed, inspired, and reenergized, ready to continue spreading light, joy, and Yiddishkeit in their respective communities. Many shared their deep sense of gratitude for the uplifting unity and renewed drive to strengthen their holy mission.

Photos by Levi Nazarov