The word “Kollel”, means inclusiveness, and The Kollel is best known for its warm, inclusive atmosphere. The Kollel is a vibrant community providing quality, modern Jewish education, programs and events in Vancouver.
The Kollel touches the lives of many people, connecting with them and giving them a warm place to develop and achieve personal growth. We have become the Jewish cultural centre for people in their 20s-40s. We host dozens of events each month including: daily services, morning and evening classes, networking events, friday night dinners and holiday celebrations.
The Kollel initiates exciting and meaningful social, cultural, and educational programs that invite people to experience Judaism (sometimes for the first time) in an inclusive, comfortable, joyful, and non-judgmental environment. The friendly and inclusive atmosphere at The Kollel encourages new connections and friendships, creating a space for and feeling of belonging.
Rivki Yeshayahu is The Kollel office administrator in addition to her role as teacher and leader at The Kollel. She grew up in Vancouver and attended schools in Chicago and Israel before returning to Vancouver in 1999. She loves the mountains and enjoys hiking during the spring, summer, and fall.
Rabbi Shmuel Yeshayahu was born in Israel and received his rabbinic ordination from the Rabbinate of Israel. He serves as a Rabbi in Vancouver, BC. Since 2000, he has been providing mentoring, counselling, religious services, classes, and tutorials, as well as developing and leading Jewish programming for unaffiliated young adults.
He is well known for his ability to make spirituality relevant and accessible to people from all walks of life.
Rabbi Yeshayahu serves as the Dean of Tamim Academy Elementary School and Dean of Ner Atid Education.
He is the co-author of An MBA from Heaven and the author of This Is My Judaism.
You can follow him on Facebook @RabbiShmulikYeshayahu.
Rebbetzin Shifra Feigelstock studied at the Beth Jacob Jerusalem College for Teachers, and has taught Jewish topics to elementary students, high school students and adults for over 25 years.
Rabbi and Rebbetzin Feigelstock live in Vancouver and have thirteen (!) children.
Rabbi Feigelstock really knows BC. He’s been here for over 30 years!
Now, where do we start?
Rabbi Avraham Feigelstock has been the Rabbi of Eitz Chaim Synagogue in Richmond, B.C., founded and heads both the Orthodox Rabbinical Council of B.C. and the Beth Din of B.C. (as Av Beth Din), as well as being the Supervising Rabbi of B.C. Kosher. In addition, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies from Montreal Rabbinical College of Canada and has pursued Advanced Studies in Biblical Discourses.
Rivka Oirechman (Riki) is a seasoned educational leader based in Vancouver, BC, with over two decades of experience in Hebrew and Judaic studies. Throughout her impressive 15-year tenure at Richmond Jewish Day School, Rivka has been instrumental in shaping and enhancing the school’s educational programs, fostering a deep love and understanding of Jewish heritage among students.
Her leadership roles have included serving as Principal of both the Hebrew School and Tzivos Hashem Sunday School, where she successfully implemented innovative programs that enriched students’ Jewish knowledge, values, and identity. Rivka is renowned for her creativity, strong interpersonal skills, and her ability to manage and develop educational frameworks that cater to a wide range of age groups.
Rivka’s dedication and expertise have earned her a respected position within the Jewish education community. Her work has had a lasting impact on countless students, guiding them in their spiritual and academic growth and ensuring that the values of Jewish education continue to thrive in Vancouver.
Rabbi Yussi and Raizy Fischer, originally from New York, bring their dedication and diverse experience to the Ohel Yaakov Community Kollel. Together, they are committed to enriching Jewish education and community life through their unique skills and passions.
Rabbi Yussi Fischer is a passionate educator with extensive experience in Talmudic studies, Chasidic philosophy, and administration. Having earned his rabbinic ordination, Rabbi Yussi is known for his charismatic communication and ability to foster a positive learning environment. His expertise spans teaching, student counselling, and program development, and he is dedicated to elevating both students and the community in their Torah learning and spiritual growth.
Raizy Fischer brings a wealth of experience in education and program planning, such as a high school Judaic studies teacher, program planner, and head counsellor at multiple camps. Renowned for her leadership and ability to create engaging activities, she has consistently fostered strong connections with kids and young adults across various educational settings.
Together, Rabbi Yussi and Raizy Fischer bring a dynamic approach to their work at the Kollel, enriching the Vancouver community through education, leadership, and personal engagement.