Scotland

Scotland - based in Edinburgh, covering the whole of Scotland.

Rabbi Eliran and Ayalah Shabo have been serving as the Chaplaincy couple for Edinburgh and the surrounding areas since August 2022, accompanied by their two children and now a third who was born in Scotland. Both were born and raised in Israel, with Eliran hailing from Jerusalem and Ayalah from Efrat. They bring a wealth of experience from their two years working with the Jewish community in Athens prior to them joining UJC in Scotland.

Eliran pursued his academic studies at David Yellin Education College and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, later obtaining his rabbinical ordination from Yeshivat Machanaim. His background includes roles in both formal and informal education, working with youth and young adults in schools, community centres, and universities. Ayalah studied at David Yellin Education College and Shalem College in Jerusalem, and furthered her Jewish studies at Midreshet Matan. She has been actively involved in community work, focusing on understanding and addressing the diverse needs of community members.

In their chaplaincy roles, the Shabos are dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for Jewish students. They provide a safe space for students to explore and express their Judaism, fostering a warm community through meaningful conversations and shared meals. Eliran enjoys discussing life and Torah over a glass of fine Scottish whisky, while Ayalah thrives on organising educational programming, cooking and preparing for Jewish festivals with students. Together, their aim is to instil confidence in students to create a meaningful Jewish life and to cultivate a love for Jewish experiences and community.

Beyond their Chaplaincy duties, Eliran has interests in geopolitics, action films, reading and cooking, whereas Ayalah enjoys gardening, photography, and knitting.

Ayalah and Eliran can be found driving across Scotland bringing Jewish enrichment to Jewish students in Aberdeen, Dundee, St Andrews, Glasgow and Edinburgh.