Discovering Home: Anna Rajko’s Journey to Israel

Matthew Fleischman
Jan 27
3 min read

Making Aliyah isn’t just a move—it’s a leap of faith, a bold decision to build a life in Israel. For Anna Rajko, a French-born social media manager, Aliyah meant rediscovering her Jewish identity, embracing challenges, and finding a place where she could truly belong.

In her episode of Aliyah Chronicles, Anna shared a story filled with resilience, growth, and unforgettable moments. From her beginnings in Brazil and France to her transformative experiences in Israel, Anna’s journey is proof of the strength it takes to build a new life and the beauty of finding your own path.

From France to Israel: A Journey of Rediscovery

Anna’s story began with an eclectic mix of cultures. Adopted from Brazil and raised in France, her childhood was shaped by questions of identity. While deeply connected to her Jewish heritage, Anna’s visits to Israel stirred something even deeper.

“Every time I left Israel, I felt a loss I couldn’t explain,” Anna shared. It was during these visits that she realized Israel was more than just a place—it was where she felt at home. Her decision to make Aliyah in January 2023 was her way of embracing that feeling.

Challenges That Shape Us

Moving to a new country is never easy, and Anna’s journey was no exception. She left behind her family and the familiarity of France to take on life in Israel—a country that is as vibrant as it is challenging.

One of her toughest hurdles? Learning Hebrew. But instead of shying away, Anna leaned into the challenge, becoming fluent during her national service. She also had to adapt to the directness of Israeli culture, which pushed her to be more assertive. “In Israel, you have to learn to be straightforward,” she said, reflecting on how it boosted her confidence and independence.

Moments That Define Home

Anna’s story isn’t just about overcoming challenges—it’s about the moments that make everything worthwhile. For Anna, those moments often came through the connections she built. From forming deep friendships to navigating her new community, these relationships helped her feel rooted.

One day, it hit her: “This is my home now. Not just where I live, but where I truly belong.” It’s a sentiment many olim can relate to—the realization that you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

Anna’s Advice for Future Olim

For anyone considering Aliyah, Anna has some simple but powerful advice: Embrace the discomfort. “It’s not always easy, but those challenges are what help you grow,” she said. Whether it’s learning the language, adapting to a new culture, or navigating bureaucracy, the journey is worth it.

Looking back, Anna says Aliyah changed her life in ways she never imagined. “I wouldn’t be who I am today without taking that leap of faith.”

Listen to Anna’s Full Story

Anna’s journey is a testament to the courage it takes to embrace change and the rewards that come with it. Want to hear more? Tune in to her episode on Aliyah Chronicles to dive deeper into her experiences, her challenges, and her triumphs. Listen now!

Join the Conversation

We want to hear from you! Have you experienced a journey like Anna’s, or are you considering making Aliyah? Let’s connect:

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