Expanding Horizons: SAMi YJP Initiative Comes to Philly

Originally published in Bukharian Times Issue #1196 by Erin Levi

In a landmark year for Bukharian, Sephardic, and Mizrahi culture in Philadelphia, the local chapter of the Sephardic American Mizrahi Initiative (SAMi) led by Zack Zav has emerged as a powerful force in preserving and celebrating our community's rich heritage through four major events in 2024.

Lansdowne’s First Hanukkah Concert

The organization's crowning achievement came during Hanukkah, when SAMi collaborated with the Jewish Federation of Philadelphia to present the first-ever Hanukkah concert in Lansdowne. 

Benjamin Hoover of the Jewish Federation emphasized the event's significance:

“We wanted to ensure that the celebration demonstrated both the diversity and unity of Jewish expression around the world. SAMi helped to educate about the Bukharan traditions and also demonstrate connections with the larger Jewish community in the Greater Philadelphia area."

The concert featured a captivating Bukharian music Shashmaqome Ensemble led by Shmuel Koenov that had the audience dancing in the aisles, bringing the warmth and energy of our community's musical traditions to new audiences. This groundbreaking performance highlighted the vital role of Bukharian culture within the broader tapestry of Jewish life in Philadelphia.

Pesach

Earlier in the year, SAMi's Pesach celebration showcased the depth and richness of Bukharian Jewish traditions. Participants experienced the community's unique approach to the holiday through traditional cuisine and music, creating connections between generations and cultures. 

Sababa Music Festival

The organization also made waves at the Sababa Music Festival, where representatives engaged with hundreds of attendees curious about Sephardic and Mizrahi heritage.

Sukkot

The historic Mikveh Israel synagogue provided a fitting backdrop for SAMi's Sukkot gathering, where traditional Sephardic customs enhanced the holiday celebrations.

In total, more than 1000 people participated in SAMi's programming in Philly throughout the year, reflecting growing interest in Sephardic and Mizrahi cultural preservation.

These successful events have established SAMi Philadelphia as an essential voice in our community, bridging the gap between ancient traditions and modern Jewish life while ensuring that Bukharian and other Sephardic cultures continue to thrive in the Greater Philadelphia area.

"Today, SAMi is present at 16 universities across the United States, in 6 states, and engages with over 5,000 students nationwide. But SAMi is not just a university organization. We have created a youth movement that is gaining popularity and interest among young people. Our goal is not only to keep the tradition alive, but also to make it alive and relevant for a new generation." said Manashe Khaimov, founder and CEO of SAMi

Zack Zav regional SAMi Philly director with the President of the Mikveh Israel, Eli Gabay.