Shloime Zionce

Shloime Zionce is a Hasidic Jewish journalist, podcaster, and YouTuber, noted for his travels and storytelling that aim to share Jewish culture and ideas with broader audiences. By the age of 28, he had visited over 40 countries, engaging in cross-cultural interactions and promoting Jewish teachings. His notable travel destinations include Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Azerbaijan.

Early life and background

Zionce was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Toronto, Canada. He began his journalism career as a writer for Ami Magazine, focusing initially on local stories in Israel. His travel writing gained traction after he wrote about a vacation in Thailand, which led to subsequent assignments from the magazine.

Career highlights

Zionce serves as a foreign correspondent for Ami Magazine and is recognized as one of the few Orthodox Jewish traveling journalists. He has gained visibility through his YouTube channel, where his videos have attracted millions of views. His series "The Endurance of a Jew" focuses on Chabad Shluchim and their global impact, featuring communities in places such as Mumbai, Dubai, Morocco, and Montana.

In collaboration with Peter Santenello, Zionce has created a series of videos aimed at presenting Orthodox Jews positively to a wider audience.

Personal observations and insights

In interviews, Zionce has discussed his evolving relationship with the Chabad community, noting that he did not initially grow up within this sect. His deeper involvement developed after personal experiences, such as spending Shabbat at a Chabad house, which significantly influenced his understanding of the role of Shlichus, or emissary work, within Judaism.

Media appearances

Zionce has appeared in various local and international media outlets, including CNN, BBC, and Al-Jazeera. His contributions are noted for bridging cultural divides and representing the Orthodox Jewish community in contemporary society.