Completely reimagined as an immersive deep dive into the Rebbe’s universe, the program prepares participants for the weekend’s spiritual highlight: a visit to the Ohel. It’s designed to help young professionals connect with the Rebbe’s teachings in a relevant and personal way.

“Many of our participants walk into work as the only Jew in the room, facing real pressure to blend in,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302 and CYP International. “The Rebbe’s teachings give them the clarity, strength, and a deep sense that their Judaism matters, not just personally, but to the world.”

To host the 1,000 young professionals expected this year, at the world’s largest international gathering of young Jewish professionals, the program will take place at the Queensborough Theater, a short drive from the Ohel. Organizers have also opened the event to all young professionals in the NYC area.

“This year’s program is unlike anything we’ve done before,” says Rabbi Beryl Frankel, director of CYP International at Merkos 302. “Just as the Pegisha-Encounters of old gave participants the transformative opportunity to meet the Rebbe, we’ve created a program so today’s young professionals can have that same deeply uplifting experience.”

The program, taking place Sunday, January 18 at 11:00 AM, will feature singer Shulem Lemmer leading niggunim and Rabbi Yitzchok Schochet addressing the group. Tech founder Teddy Raskin will share his spiritual journey and his connection to the Rebbe, offering a perspective many young professionals will relate to.

But some of the most compelling moments will come from young professionals themselves. Several participants will share firsthand how they’ve drawn inspiration from the Rebbe, how it strengthened their Jewish identity, and gave them clarity during challenging times.

Through a well-planned immersive experience with music, video, and guided reflections, the program helps each young professional see how connecting with the Rebbe speaks directly to their own life.

“We’re opening the program to all young professionals in the area because we’ve seen how powerful this experience can be,” says Rabbi Nissi Lepkivker, director of CYP Encounters at Merkos 302. “We encourage all shluchim to take advantage of the opportunity and bring their young professionals to connect and be uplifted.”

Following the program at the Queensborough Theater, participants will make their way to the Ohel, a moment many attendees describe as the emotional and spiritual anchor of the weekend, drawing strength and inspiration to return home reinvigorated and uplift their peers as well.

The program is open to all shluchim in the greater NYC area who wish to bring young professionals, including those not registered for the Encounter Shabbaton. There is no charge to attend.

Sunday, January 18 | 11:00 AM | Queensborough Theater, Bayside, NY
Tri-state Shluchim can register their groups at: cypshabbat.nyc/connection