About

Hi, I am Leila. As a Jewish 12 year old, I am preparing to become an adult in the eyes of my community, which in Judaism takes place at age 13. Every Jewish person becomes a Bar (boys) or Bat (girls) Mitzvah on their 13th birthday. Most kids study Hebrew and Torah and have a ceremony at their synagogue. I am doing something a little different for mine. I am studying Torah, and I am using my Bat Mitzvah as an opportunity to 1) recognize the blessings in my life; 2) challenge myself physically and mentally by biking to Duluth, MN; and 3) be an agent of change in the world through raising awareness and funds to end genocide and modern day slavery. As Jews my people have survived both types of horrible events throughout history. Other groups have survived genocide and slavery throughout history and around the world too. Today people are still experiencing genocide, and modern day slavery is one of the most profitable illegal businesses in the world.

Each of us can make a difference if we want to and if we try! You can make a difference too — do something nice for someone today — a smile, a hug, kind words, stop bullying when you see it & stand up for someone — and visit the link to World Without Genocide to learn more about this great organization and to make a donation in honor of my Bat Mitzvah!