NSW man comes ‘home’ to his identity

A young man from regional New South Wales says a Birthright trip to Israel has transformed his relationship with his Jewish identity, as the Zionist Federation of Australia (ZFA) reports rising interest in the program since October 7, 2023.

Will Border, from Wingham on the NSW mid-north coast, reconnected with his Jewish heritage through his great-grandfather while researching his family tree. He was encouraged to apply for Birthright after connecting with a local Chanukah outreach event.

“I was always aware that I was Jewish. My grandma would always bring it up and discuss it,” Border said. But growing up away from a large Jewish community meant few chances to explore that identity further.

The 10-day trip changed that. “I’d definitely say it brought it home to me,” Border said. “To be able to see it live in action, and to be able to learn more, and actually experience, not just read about it. That’s what was a highlight for me.”

Border said the experience has inspired him to deepen his Jewish practice. “I’ve recently started reading more religious texts, as well as philosophy, and I want to integrate that in my daily life.”