This summer, hundreds of participants from across the UK took part in Tribe programmes, fully immersing themselves in the true Tribe experience. With camps running in the UK, Holland, New York, and Israel, Tribe’s impact was felt far and wide.
Participants enjoyed a wide variety of activities, including visits to theme parks, adventure parks, inflatable water parks, paddleboarding, rock scrambling, and high ropes challenges. They also took unforgettable trips to Disneyland and visited Anne Frank’s House, where they learned about the Jewish community of Amsterdam, both past and present. In the UK, participants explored the National Holocaust Museum and engaged in meaningful educational experiences. Back at the camp sites, the energy stayed high with colour wars, talent shows, supper quizzes, creative team challenges, and a wide range of madrichim-led activities.
Those travelling to New York took part in a unique leadership programme, designed to inspire and empower the next generation of Jewish leaders. As well as enjoying iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Ground Zero, participants visited Hatzolah Headquarters and met with influential Jewish personalities and community leaders. These encounters gave them valuable insight into Jewish communal leadership, responsibility, and impact, making the programme not just memorable, but deeply meaningful.
Despite the war with Iran and the resulting security concerns, Israel Tour was still able to go ahead thanks to the commitment of the parents and participants signed up to the programme. By adjusting the dates and working closely with security and logistical partners, The Tribe Team ensured not only the safety and success of the programme but also that participants were able to experience Israel first-hand, from hiking through the refreshing water trails of the Golan, to camel riding in the Negev desert, praying at the Western Wall and visiting hostage square. The tour offered not only adventure and connection to the land but also meaningful and reflective moments that will stay with the participants for years to come.
Alongside these experiences, young people forged new friendships, deepened their understanding of Jewish practices and culture, and engaged in important conversations about Israel and the challenges facing the Jewish community in the UK today.
A key part of the camp atmosphere is the support and presence of rabbinic families who join the programmes. Their involvement provides participants with valuable spiritual guidance, pastoral care, and role models within the community, enriching the camp experience and reinforcing a strong sense of Jewish identity.
With over 450 participants and nearly 100 dedicated madrichim, the success of the programmes was the result of months of careful planning and commitment. Organising these experiences is no small task – the Tribe team works tirelessly both in the lead-up to and throughout the summer, focusing not only on logistics but also on the welfare and individual needs of each participant. This ensures every child has a safe, enriching, and unforgettable summer.
This extraordinary effort is also supported by the wider United Synagogue team, whose behind-the-scenes work is crucial — from logistical support, safeguarding, and kashrut advice to site visits and risk assessments. Their involvement ensures that the highest standards are maintained across every element of the programmes.
Anna Coleman, Tribe’s Head of Operations, reflected on the summer:
“A special mention must go out to the incredible volunteers and madrichim. These individuals give up their time, energy, and often sleep to be there for our young people. Many take time away from personal commitments to serve as madrichim or support staff. They go above and beyond to create a warm, caring, and fun environment, building strong relationships with participants and ensuring each child feels valued. Their passion, responsibility, and dedication are what turn a good summer into an exceptional one. Quite simply, Tribe camps wouldn’t be possible without them.
“One of the most rewarding parts of the summer was seeing the Tribe journey in reality. Some of our leaders this summer began as campers themselves and have since taken part in Israel Tour, Tribe Poland, and Tribe Leadership Camp. They return year after year to give back, inspire others, and continue their own journeys. It’s truly amazing to witness.”
Tribe is now preparing for its next major event: the Tribe Poland Trip later this year. At the core of every Tribe programme is the mission to provide meaningful Jewish journeys for every child.
