October 11, 2010 / 3 Cheshvan 5771

Vladimir Milner, 25, had a very bright future in Moscow. But at the age of 17, following his participation in Jewish Agency summer camps, Vladimir was drawn to Israel; he left family and friends to come to his homeland alone. “There was never a question about whether I was going to make aliyah,” says Vladimir. “It was just a matter of when.”

Vladimir came on the Jewish Agency’s Selah academic preparatory program for high school graduates from the former Soviet Union in 2002. During the 10-month program he lived at the Ulpan Etzion Absorption Center in Jerusalem with other young people from around the world. “I would recommend Selah to all Jewish young people like myself. It helps you learn how to make Israel your home.” 

Upon completing Selah, Vladimir served in the Israel Defense Forces as a border policeman in Bethlehem. As a lone soldier, Vladimir received assistance from the Jewish Agency’s "Wings" program, which provided hands-on support and guidance as he transitioned into civilian life in a completely new culture. “The counselors who guided us made all the difference,” says Vladimir. “They were always making sure that we were okay.”

The Jewish Agency also brought Vladimir’s mother to Israel for a week-long visit to be with her son. “It was so emotional,” explains Vladimir, who was one of fifteen soldiers selected for the special program. “For a mother, it’s so very hard to let go and send your child across the world. But my parents really respected my decision.”

Today, Vladimir is pursuing a Master's Degree in Eastern European Studies at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.  He received an undergraduate degree in political science also at the Hebrew University thanks to a three-year scholarship from the Jewish Agency. He supplements his income by working as a physical fitness trainer at a local community center. “Life after the army is not easy,” says Vladimir. “But I love this country, and eventually I want to be a diplomat. I believe that political science will give me the tools to change this society for the better. I worry about Israel and want to play my part in helping the State and the Jewish people.”