OrahSydney, in partnership with the global Momentum organisation based in the USA, offers a cohort of 20 women from our local Sydney community the chance to embark on the MOMentum year-long Journey of Growth .
This transformative program is designed to inspire Sydney mothers raising Jewish school-age children (under 18 years of age) to lead a more meaningful and connected Jewish life. It is specifically tailored for women who are not currently fully immersed in or actively engaged with Jewish practices.
The MOMentum Journey provides a unique opportunity to explore and be inspired by the richness of our Jewish heritage and the wisdom of our values, experience Israel in an unforgettable way, and build lasting bonds within the community. At the heart of this program is the belief that mothers are the foundation of Jewish continuity. By igniting her soul, she will bring a brighter light into her home, creating a ripple effect that illuminates the world.
As its name suggests, the MOMentum Journey spans an entire year, requiring a full 12-month commitment from participants. It is a dynamic blend of education, experiential learning, and personal growth, including a life-changing 9-day trip to Israel with women from around the globe. Upon returning, the journey continues with monthly in-person learning sessions, community engagement, and social gatherings here in Sydney. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that many find they never knew they needed - until they couldn’t imagine their life without it.
This highly subsidised program is made possible through Momentum scholarships, support from the Israeli government, and the backing of ORAHSYDNEY. As a result, eligibility criteria do apply, which you can learn more about below.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:
9 - 10 day experience in Israel, including up to 8 days in the Momentum program, plus 2 extra days for Sydney participants only. Dates for 2025 to be advised. Due to the current war with Gaza our last two year's of programs have had to be cancelled which means we hope to run two programs in 2025 - one beginning in Israel around 18th May 2025, the other early November.
4 - 6 pre-Israel trip meetings - to prepare you for your journey.
12 monthly learning sessions back in Sydney, held every 3-4 weeks, typically on Sunday evenings.
Cohort-led group initiatives: Engage in 2-3 chesed (community service) projects throughout the year, participate in fundraising to support the next cohort, and enjoy plenty of fun social events along the way.
The following video gives you a taste of what you can expect in the Israel aspect of the journey. It features some of our 2019 women who you may recognise.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY? As this program is heavily subsidised, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Mothers of Jewish school-age children: You must have at least one child under the age of 18 living at home.
Not strictly religiously observant: This program is designed for women who are not highly engaged in Jewish ritual observance or deeply involved in the Jewish community.
Physically and emotionally healthy: The Israel experience is full of activity, including extensive walking and packed long days. It can also stir deep emotions, so participants need to be prepared for this intense but rewarding journey. While this program offers significant personal growth, it is not a therapeutic experience.
GROUP SIZE: To ensure an optimal learning environment and foster strong group connections, we accept approximately 18-20 women into the program each year, alongside 2-3 leaders. Due to the growing popularity of the program within our community, we now receive far more applications than available places.
Selection is based on meeting the program's eligibility criteria, a face-to-face interview, and the successful completion and scoring of an online Momentum Application Form. Each application is carefully reviewed both individually and in the context of group dynamics.
Please note that, unfortunately, not all applicants will be offered a place on their first application, but may be successful in future program offerings. We now also run ORAH GATHERINGS - community monthly meet ups for all women in our community regardless of whether they have done our program, for spiritual growth and social connection.
COSTS: While the Momentum Israel program is heavily subsidised - covering shared accommodation, tours, speakers, and much of the food - participants will need to cover the following additional expenses for the year long journey:
Trip Expenses:
Return airfare: Participants are responsible for booking their own flights. The group will meet in Israel.
Momentum participation fee: $860 USD, paid directly to Momentum. (Note: $500 USD of this amount is a fully refundable deposit, offered back to participants at the end of the Israel trip).
Personal spending money: For shopping, some meals (approximately 3 dinners and 3 lunches not covered), incidental expenses, as well as pre- and post-trip accommodation, transport, tours and entertainment.
Mobile phone plan: To cover international roaming or local service while in Israel.
Travel and Health insurance: Required for coverage before and after the Momentum trip.
Israel Travel Visa - From 1 January 2025, all foreign nationals must have either an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA-IL) or a visa before arriving in Israel. Check your eligibility here.
ORAHSYDNEY Education Levy :
OrahSydney education levy: $1,850 AUD, includes the year of learning and an exclusive 2 day Sydney program in Israel, that is in addition to the Momentum itinerary.
