From Nigeria to Crown Heights

I’m French and Nigerian, and I grew up in northern France. I didn’t even know I was Jewish—it felt like a choice.

That changed when we moved to Nigeria and met Rabbi Israel Uzan. At 14, I learned I was Jewish through my mother. I started learning at CTeen gatherings, doing fun activities, eating kosher food, and reconnecting with my soul.

Separated from my parents, I felt enslaved by social media and loneliness. My first Shabbat at CTeen changed everything. No pressure—just gentle suggestion. And it gave me the space to explore and choose Judaism for myself.

My first CTeen Shabbaton in Crown Heights made me realize: we’re all connected by Jewish identity. That inspired my whole family to grow closer to Judaism..