StandWithUs UK has once again brought Israeli voices of courage and hope to communities across the country through its Stories of Resilience speaking tour. From 4 to 15 October 2025, four remarkable speakers shared their powerful testimonies with audiences in London and Birmingham, marking two years since the tragic events of October 7th. 

The delegation featured four individuals whose experiences reflect strength, sacrifice, and coexistence in the face of terror. Shir Zohar, a survivor of the Nova Festival massacre, spoke movingly about her ordeal and the importance of choosing life and light after tragedy. Yonatan Haber, an IDF paratrooper who responded to the massacre in Kfar Aza, described the moment he arrived on the scene and the lasting impact it has had on him. Shani Aharon, an IDF combat infantry officer, shared her experiences leading soldiers into the chaos of that day. Fuad Ahmad, an Arab Israeli spokesperson, brought a vital message of shared humanity and the need for coexistence within Israeli society. 

Over twelve days, the tour reached more than 3,350 people, engaging with students, faith communities, and the wider public. The delegation spoke at JCoSS and Yavneh College, joined the Stop the Hate vigil at Hendon Park, collaborated with the Jewish Learning Exchange (JLE), and visited synagogues across the country during the Sukkot festival. 

For many, the tour provided a deeply personal connection to the events of October 7th. Year 10 pupils Daisy and Tahlia from Yavneh College said, “The speakers reminded us of the importance of thinking of others and how one selfless action can make a difference for a lifetime.” Their reflection captured the spirit of the tour: resilience built through empathy and shared responsibility. 

Ezra, a member of Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue, shared his thoughts after hearing one of the talks: 
“It was a privilege to hear Yonatan share his experiences as an ordinary Israeli who, like many others, stepped up at a moment’s notice to selflessly protect his fellow citizens without hesitation. It is important for communities to hear and understand testimony on the impact the war had on everyone, young and old, student and entrepreneur. Without doing so, you cannot understand just how significant October 7th was.” 

A member of the audience at the event at Mill Hill East Jewish Community reflected on the significance of hearing from Fuad Ahmad, saying, “It was important to hear from Fuad, as we do not hear enough from parts of the Israeli population. Fuad gave us a stark reminder of the importance of the existence of such communities in Israel, and they are just as much a part of our story as we are of theirs.” 

A special part of each event invited audience members to take home red anemone flower bulbs along with a card bearing the name of a victim of October 7th. The red anemone, which grows naturally in the communities surrounding Gaza, has become a national symbol of remembrance in Israel. By planting the bulbs, participants were encouraged to create living memorials of hope and renewal. 

Isaac Zarfati, Executive Director of StandWithUs UK, said: 
“Hours after the October 7 massacre, denial began. Just as there are Holocaust deniers, there are October 7 deniers. We founded the 7/10 Education Centre so that people, especially the young, can learn and listen to first-hand testimonies. Remembering is the first step in fighting disinformation.” 

Yehuda Fink, Managing Director at StandWithUs UK, added: 
“We are honoured to have brought back the Stories of Resilience tour to the UK for a second consecutive year, reaching thousands once again to mark the anniversary of that awful day. Amidst the excitement of the return of the hostages and what seemingly is the end of a long war, it is essential that audiences bear witness to the testimonies of those who saw what took place, and to share them with others to ensure that no one forgets.” 

Through their words, these speakers offered not only personal testimony but also a message that resonates far beyond Israel. The Stories of Resilience 2025 tour reminded communities across the UK of the power of courage, compassion, and remembrance in building a more understanding and united world. 

StandWithUs UK is an educational charity that supports Israel and the Jewish people through information campaigns, student programmes, and community engagement. Its mission is to stand up for Israel and combat antisemitism in the UK and beyond. For more information about StandWithUs UK and future educational programmes, visit https://standwithus.com/uk/