The Rebbe ✨
The Lubavitcher Rebbe, leader of the Chabad movement, dedicated his life to empowering every Jew, wherever they may be. He lived and led from New York and is interred at the Ohel in Queens - a place where people from all over the world come to pray and draw inspiration.
The Rebbe founded the global network of Chabad centres, based on his belief that every Jew should have a welcoming home and a place that provides genuine care - both spiritual and physical.
For us, the Rebbe is the source of inspiration behind everything we do. His approach guides us in every step - in the way we connect with people, host, speak, and build relationships.
We strive to live by his teachings: to see the good and the positive, to spread light and joy, and to believe that even the smallest act can make a difference and change the world.
The Rebbe’s way is the path that drives us every day - it’s the heart of everything we do here in Southend.
Rabbi Tzvi Birnhack
Rabbi & Co-Founder of Chabad Southend
I grew up in Ashdod, Israel, and spent several years studying in New York, where I received my Rabbinical ordination. Later, I taught young students in Moscow - an experience that gave me deep insight into people and community life.
In 2020 we got married and lived for two years in Kfar Chabad, Israel.
My greatest inspiration is the Lubavitcher Rebbe - his broad vision, his belief in people, and his ability to see the good and the potential for growth in everything.
Today, I serve as the Rabbi of Chabad of Southend, together with my wife, Mushki. We lead all the activities - classes, events, one-on-one meetings - everything that helps bring people together.
Our vision is to unite all the Jews of Southend as one big family, where everyone feels proud to be Jewish and finds warmth, meaning, and connection.
Mrs. Mushki Birnhack
Co-Founder of Chabad Southend
Community Events and Programme Coordinator
I was born in Beit Shemesh and grew up in Kfar Chabad. For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of opening a Chabad House somewhere in the world.
Many members of my family run Chabad centers and I always knew that I wanted to build one too.
Before coming to Southend, I worked as a teacher and event coordinator - a job I truly loved, but I always knew my heart belonged to my bigger dream: to open a Chabad House and build something meaningful of my own.
My dream is to see a warm and united community where everyone feels like family. Leaving my wider family in Israel wasn’t easy but I feel that, slowly, we’re building a new family here - caring, supportive, and full of joy. I hope that every Jew in Southend will find a place here - whatever their background, age, or stage in life.
Chabad Southend
We are a warm and welcoming family dedicated to fostering connections among our members.
We are a warm and welcoming family dedicated to fostering connections among our members.
Our vibrant hub by the sea is home to a wide array of enriching activities that cater to all ages, creating opportunities for spiritual growth and personal connections.
We invite families to join us in our diverse events and programmes that not only strengthen our community but also build lasting friendships. We invite you to come and experience the joy of being part of our growing and happy Community/ family!
From a dream to reality.
We always dreamed of opening a Chabad House, to reach out to more Jewish souls and unite them through a non-judgmental and very open approach of the Rebbe. Introduce our Jewish roots and traditions, share joy together. Form new friendships and create a wide family and supportive community.
We met in 2020 through a traditional Chabad match. Our wedding was small and very special. It took place during "Covid times" in Kfar Chabad, Israel. A year later, our first son Ari was born. We moved to England in 2022 and first settled in North London. Not long after arriving in the UK, our first daughter Sheina joined the family, and two years later we were blessed with our baby girl, Miriam.
We came to Southend through Chabad of Essex, led by Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin. Together with his wife Devorah, they are the driving force behind Chabad of Essex, ensuring there are active and vibrant Chabad centres throughout the region. They introduced us to the area, helped us settle in, to get to know the community, and become part of the local Jewish life
Photos: Community Dinner & Family Birnhack
Our children are very much part of the mission, they are excited about every guest, love meeting new people, and share in the joy of building our community. It’s deeply moving to see how many people are happy to come, take part, celebrate, help, and contribute. This is what truly builds our community. It’s so amazing to watch how everything grows together, how people connect, and how much positive energy fills the place.
We’re so touched to see how, in just three years, the community has grown so beautifully, and we constantly receive heart-warming feedback from people who feel part of it.
Our dream is to see the community continue to grow even more - a warm and united community that offers a home and support for every Jew, both physically and spiritually, at every age and every stage of life.
Our Mission & Vision
Create a strong & ever growing community
We nurture genuine connections through open conversations, shared experiences, and a welcoming spirit. Our community thrives on gatherings, celebrations, and shared spiritual life, helping everyone feel at home and part of something meaningful.
Help support & guide those who search for true meaning
We offer a safe and caring space for reflection, conversation, and personal growth. By walking alongside each individual’s journey, we encourage purpose, belonging, and a deeper sense of meaning in everyday life.
Reach Out to more Jewish souls
As part of Chabad’s global mission, we connect with Jewish souls everywhere. Here in Southend and the surrounding areas, we reach out to local Jewish individuals and families, helping everyone feel seen, welcomed, and connected to Jewish life and community.
Get the chance to have a cup of coffee with you.
Sometimes the best connections start simply—over a warm cup of coffee. These relaxed meetings allow conversation to flow, friendships to form, and new members to feel at home in our community.
Celebrate life, tradition & togetherness
From holidays to Shabbat gatherings and special events, we come together to honour tradition, nurture friendship, and grow stronger as a community. Every gathering is a chance to connect, celebrate, and belong.
We are Rabbi Tzvi and Mushki Birnhack and together with you we are Chabad Southend.
Here's a little bit about us...
