The event was organized by Partners in Torah, AISH, DateNight AI and CoronaCrush, alongside 30 other organizations. This year’s turnout broke previous records by several hundred participants and dates.
Jewish singles from around the globe connected based on preferences and location submitted during registration. When mutual interest sparked, participants could opt for a second date, either online or in person.
“The program was outstanding this year,” said Tehilla Friedland, COO of Partners in Torah and lead organizer. “Last year’s event led to dozens of long-term relationships and three marriages so far. We’re hoping to celebrate even more matches turning into lasting partnerships.”
The event proved especially meaningful for singles in remote areas. D., who hails from a small South African community, told organizers: “I’m very thankful for this opportunity. I’m looking to date seriously, but there aren’t many Jewish singles where I live.”
“It was an incredibly successful event,” said Stephanie Cemal, the Community Manager of CoronaCrush. “We connected 6,747 Jews from around the world and made thousands of matches in the 1-hour events across two time zones. It’s amazing what can be achieved when you put technology and purpose together. We’re so grateful to Aish, Partners in Torah and our 35 other partners across the world for helping us achieve this and hosting the biggest speed dating event ever. We’re looking forward to seeing the marriages and relationships that will come from this!”
So far, 50% of the participants have confirmed that they will be going on a second date with one of their matches.
Rivkah, one of the participants from Jerusalem, told organizers after the event that: “At first I didn’t know what it would be like, it was my first speed date. It was carefully planned, very relaxed and I just enjoyed it. And I think it’s very blessed! Because what you see in a resume that is written technically, and a photo, you don’t see when you talk to the person face-to-face. It helps remove prejudices and opens your mind to other styles. Thank you very much for the blessed project!”
Another participant, named Rachael, who joined the event from London, added: “I had the best evening. It was so well organised and I met loads of people that I could genuinely see connections with.”
An American participant from Chicago also joined in praising the event after he met a match that he will be seeing again: “Ultimately, I was very very apprehensive and worried, but was pleasantly surprised. I have had the absolute WORST experiences with dating apps, so this was a breath of fresh air to actually get matched with people.”
“The Jewish response to hatred has always been life, and there’s no better way to build Jewish continuity than through meaningful relationships,” explained Rabbi Steven Burg, CEO of AISH. “This event gave thousands of wonderful singles the chance to meet and take the next steps toward building their futures together.”
Organizers are already planning next year’s event, hoping for even greater attendance. Rabbi Burg concluded by saying, “The Jewish family is our greatest strength and the most powerful testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Jewish people.”
