Q&A with 2023 Birthright Israel Alum Sivan Brodo-Abo

Sivan Brodo-Abo is a 2023 Brithright Israel alum who is half-Israeli. Prior to her trip, Sivan had visited family in Israel but never had the opportunity to dive into the rich history of the Jewish homeland until this immersive experience.

Q&A with Sivan

What inspired you to sign up for a Birthright Israel trip? 

Sivan Brodo-Abo: “I am half Israeli, and I visited my family in Israel two times. As I got to see some highlights of Israel’s amazingly rich history, I gained a thirst to learn more about important landmarks of Judaism and explore modern Israeli culture. I am so happy I went on Birthright Israel, and I will forever cherish the memories made on the trip!”

Did you have any preconceived notions prior to going to Israel? 

Sivan Brodo-Abo: “I didn’t have many preconceived notions prior to going to Israel but looked forward to the warm personalities of Israelis, which I got to experience even further throughout the trip. I also knew Israel holds so much history, but I never really thought about how incredible the amount of history is present in comparison to its size prior to attending Birthright Israel.”

Did you grow up with a connection to your Jewish identity?  

Sivan Brodo-Abo: “I grew up in a Jewish household, and my parents and I celebrate the main holidays, but not to a religious extent. I call myself a culturally agnostic Jew — I see some of the Bible as a way of metaphorically explaining some aspects of nature and science, which makes me see God as Mother Nature.”

What was your biggest takeaway from the trip?

Sivan Brodo-Abo: “It is so so hard to find the biggest takeaway from the trip; I enjoyed everything about it! If I had to choose, I would say it is Jerusalem. We got to visit a balcony that had a view of all the holy places in the city, which was absolutely spectacular. Also, from the beginning, our team leader Chaim, said that we would be a family by the end of the trip, and he was completely right. I miss everyone! What surprised me the most was Tzfat, I knew about the city, but I did not know about its history. It was great to tour, hear beautiful middle eastern music, eat a super delicious lunch, and meet the Israelis. The Israelis were awesome. From the minute we met, it felt as if we had been friends for a while already!

How has Birthright Israel played a role in your life since coming home from the trip? 

Sivan Brodo-Abo: “After coming home, I already missed Israel, missed our team, and all the memories made together. I still think about those memories and wish I could still be there. It was great to come to see my parents, but I couldn’t and cannot think about the miraculous time I had on the trip. I have shown many of my friends and family photos from Birthright Israel and described how incredible the experience was. This opportunity gave me exposure to the Israeli lifestyle, and I think maybe in my 30s, I can see myself living in Israel.”

If you could meet the person who made your trip possible, what would you say to them? 

Sivan Brodo-Abo: “If I could meet the person who made my trip possible, I would say thank you so much for providing me and numerous others with the opportunity to visit Israel. I learned so much about Jewish history, got to see so many precious sites, experienced modern-day life with awesome Israelis, and made real friends. I will keep this trip in my mind forever and encourage all non-Israeli Jews who are eligible for Birthright to take the opportunity.”