On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to congratulate Temple Israel on its upcoming 80th birthday celebrations. Despite the challenges posed by changing demographics in the Hillbrow area, Temple Israel continues to serve as a place of worship, but at the same time it has succeeded in transforming itself into a vibrant centre of social outreach for the broader Johannesburg population. In doing so, it has given practical expression to the timeless Jewish values of caring and compassion for those in need of a helping hand, and indeed in realizing the noble Jewish ideal of Tikkun Olam – Healing the World. In congratulating all the dedicated people who are or have been involved in this unfolding story, I would like to pay a special tribute to Reeva Forman, a long-serving and highly valued member of the SAJBD whose name, in addition, has become synonymous with Temple Israel over the decades.
Recent Articles
Jewish Report 11 - 18 September 2025
Above Board in this week's Jewish Report
by Prof Karen Milner
Connection, recollection, condolence
This week has seen the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) continue its vital international engagements, fostering connections that strengthen our community on the global stage. Our national director, Wendy Kahn, joined her counterparts from 60 communities around the world at the World Jewish Congress (WJC) National Community Directors Forum in Bratislava, Slovakia. This gathering provides an invaluable space for open dialogue, where they share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another in a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.
SAJBD National Director Represents South Africa at Global Jewish Leadership Forum
SAJBD National Director Represents South Africa at Global Jewish Leadership Forum
This week, SAJBD National Director Wendy Kahn attended the World Jewish Congress’s 10th National Community Directors Forum, held in Bratislava, Slovakia. The gathering brought together over 75 Jewish community leaders from 50 countries to share experiences, strategies, and mutual support at a time when Jewish life faces significant global challenges.
Wendy Kahn's column in the latest edition of Jewish Life: Hidden Treasures - Our Living history
Wendy Kahn's column in the latest edition of Jewish Life:
Hidden Treasures - Our Living history
There is a little-known treasure trove in the Beyachad building that few have experienced. I have worked at the SAJBD for nearly 20 years, and I have used the archive periodically in my day to day work life, getting information for articles, legal cases or correspondence.
Over the past month we have been in the process of moving our archive into the heart of Beyachad, making it more accessible and exciting for our community and the many people who use it.