New Torah Scroll Dedicated to Memory of Yimno Zaleka Installed at His Youth Movement Branch

A new Torah scroll was dedicated last Thursday at the Bnei Akiva Malbas branch in Petah Tikva in memory of Yimno Benjamin Zaleka, a central figure in the branch who was tragically murdered last year. Zaleka, who had been a member, counselor, and coordinator of the Chavrei B group at the branch, was fatally attacked while working at a pizzeria on Israel's Independence Day. His friends initiated the project during the shiva mourning period to honor his legacy permanently within the community where he grew up and served.

The group raised approximately 90,000 shekels to commission the new Torah scroll, replacing the old one used for many years at the branch. The initiative was supported by the Petah Tikva municipality, the Zaleka family, and the "Menatzichim" association. The dedication ceremony coincided with what would have been Zaleka's 21st birthday, beginning with a gathering at his family home to complete the final letters of the scroll, followed by a celebratory procession with singing and dancing to the Bnei Akiva branch, where the scroll was placed in the ark.

The event was attended by Zaleka's family, friends, current and former branch members, branch coordinator Sapir Atlas, representatives from Bnei Akiva's national leadership, the mayor of Petah Tikva, and other guests. Bnei Akiva Secretary-General Yigal Klein remarked on Zaleka's significant role in the branch and praised his friends for transforming their grief into a lasting tribute through Torah, ensuring his values and memory continue to inspire future generations at the branch.