For over 50 years, Chabad Lubavitch Leeds has been led by a dedicated team of shluchim inspired by the vision of the Lubavitcher Rebbe: that every Jew deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and connect with their Jewish heritage.
Together, our team serves the Leeds Jewish community through education, pastoral care, youth programmes, family activities, community events and practical support.
When Rabbi Yirmiyahu and Shoshana Angyalfi arrived in Leeds in 1975 as the city's first full-time Chabad shluchim, they brought with them a simple yet ambitious vision: to build a welcoming Jewish home where every Jew would feel valued, regardless of background or level of observance.
Under their direction, Chabad Lubavitch Leeds has grown into one of the UK's largest regional Chabad centres, serving thousands of people every year through educational programmes, youth initiatives, pastoral care and community support.
Generations of Leeds families have celebrated milestones, found guidance and shared countless Shabbos and Yom Tov meals around their table. More than fifty years later, Rabbi and Mrs Angyalfi continue to inspire the community with their warmth, wisdom and unwavering dedication.
For over four decades, Rabbi Reuven and Ruth Cohen have dedicated themselves to inspiring Jewish pride throughout Leeds.
From youth clubs and educational programmes to public Chanukah celebrations and community events, they have encouraged thousands of children and adults to engage with their Jewish heritage in meaningful and enjoyable ways. Rabbi Cohen has also been instrumental in organising the city's public Chanukah celebrations, helping bring Jewish life into the heart of Leeds for thousands of people each year.
Known for their boundless enthusiasm and genuine care for every individual, they continue to play a central role in the life of the community.
University can be an exciting, and sometimes challenging, time for Jewish students living away from home.
Rabbi Michoel and Chana Sorah Danow established Chabad on Campus Leeds to ensure every student has a Jewish home away from home. Whether through Shabbat dinners, one-to-one learning, social events or simply an open front door, they help students build friendships, explore Judaism and feel connected throughout their university years.
Many alumni continue to stay in touch long after graduation, returning to visit whenever they are back in Leeds.
Rabbi Eli and Dabrushy Pink are passionate about helping Judaism feel meaningful, relevant and accessible.
They lead a wide range of educational and community initiatives, from adult learning to young professionals, women's programmes, holiday events and community outreach. They are also involved in developing new projects that respond to the changing needs of Jewish Leeds, ensuring Chabad continues to grow alongside the community it serves.
Whether teaching a class, supporting a family, planning a new initiative or simply sharing a conversation over coffee, they believe every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen Jewish life.
Rabbi Sholem and Devorah Leah Kalmenson are the latest additions to the team. Together with their children Mendel and Avraham, they quickly captured the hearts of the community, leading Chabad's children's and family programmes with warmth, creativity and endless enthusiasm.
Through CKids after school, Camp Gan Israel, family events and hands-on educational experiences, they help children discover the joy of Judaism in a fun, welcoming environment where every child feels valued.
They are passionate about creating positive Jewish memories that last a lifetime, and children and families have been responding, with record numbers attending and bringing their friends.
Our Shluchos
Every year, Chabad Lubavitch Leeds is privileged to welcome dedicated shluchos who spend the year helping deliver our educational and community programmes. Whether working with children, assisting at events, visiting families or lending a helping hand behind the scenes, they bring warmth, enthusiasm and positivity to everything they do.
Leah is our administrator and supports our children's programmes and community events. She is also the coordinator of our Kitchen of Kindness.
Menucha Rochel and Devorah Leah enjoy working with children and families, bringing creativity, patience and genuine care to every programme they are involved in. They also do all the cooking for the Kitchen of Kindness, making thousands of meals a year.
It Takes a Community
Behind every class, event, Shabbat meal and community programme is an incredible team of people who make it all possible.
Our volunteers, committee members and supporters generously give their time, talents and energy throughout the year. Many have been involved with Chabad Lubavitch Leeds for decades; others joined more recently. Together, they create the welcoming atmosphere that so many people call their second home.
Thank you to everyone who helps make Chabad Lubavitch Leeds the vibrant, caring community it is today.