A Platform for Every Voice: A Note from the Editor

Rooted in identity, shaped by our community—from chanicha to editor, an invitation to share in the story.

My name is Anya Berg, the newly elected editor of the Young Zionist for 2025/26. This is a role that resonates greatly with me and allows me to twin my love and experience of writing with Judaism and Zionism.

FZY has given so much to me over the past few years, I’ve made incredible friendships, developed my confidence and met a whole breadth of people of whom have shaped who I am and inspire the decisions I make. One of the most powerful and important things that have come from my involvement in the movement is my understanding of pluralism, my increased tolerance for different opinions and a realisation that our diverse perspectives are, in fact, something to be greatly celebrated. The members make the movement and in this sense, we’ve created a unique space where everyone is willing to learn, listen and grow. That is what I believe makes FZY the movement that never stops moving. I hope to use my position as editor to amplify all voices - be it Hadracha, Bogrim, Senior Bogrim and even Alumni.

My FZY journey began with Hadracha Aleph and Hadracha Bet, I fell in love with the movement and its ideology. In between the two years, I was fortunate enough to be a chanicha on Year 12 Israel Tour. Growing up, Israel was always central to my identity, having flown to the country numerous times with my family. During tour, for the first time in my life, it didn’t just feel like a holiday destination but like a part of me belonged there. My involvement with FZY continued upon my return to the UK, and I truly felt so grateful to have a place in a movement where I was surrounded by people so like-minded to me. I still, to this day, have never missed an FZY Shabbaton that I’ve been eligible for and have tried to attend as many events throughout the year as possible. In 2024, I spent my gap year in Israel, working and living on a Kibbutz, which provided me with such a unique insight of the country and really solidified my love for it, I can safely and proudly say it’s my second home. I’ve spent the last few months studying English and Creative Writing at the University of Nottingham. Therefore, I feel that the position of editor is right up my street and gives me a great chance to pair my passion for writing with my devotion to this incredible movement.

I firmly believe in the importance of connection – both to our heritage and, as a Zionist movement, our responsibility to Israel. Therefore, I’d really like to ensure as many people are involved with the Young Zionist this year as possible, big or small. Whether it’s to share personal stories, opinion pieces or anything else you’d like to write about; nothing is off the table. This role provides an incredible opportunity to actively engage with myriad topics that matter to our community.

If you’d like to write an article, have any ideas, or ask a question, please send enquiries to my email, anyaberg05@gmail.com, or directly contact FZY. I can’t wait to see what the next year brings!