Last week, the JLGB family lost one of its young leaders, Rafael Daniel, who passed away aged just 16.

Rafael was a much-loved and valued member of Borehamwood JLGB. Week after week, he brought warmth, energy and commitment, building strong friendships and embracing everything the organisation had to offer. From camps to local activities, he took part fully, growing in confidence and connection with those around him.

In recent months, Rafael had taken the important step of becoming a young leader. It was a role he stepped into with pride, and one that reflected both his personal growth and the trust placed in him by those who had supported him along the way. He had been with us just days earlier at our Leaders and Young Leaders weekend, beginning that next chapter of his journey within JLGB. He was also very much looking forward to joining JLGB on Israel Tour this July, something he had been excitedly talking about daily.

JLGB’s values are rooted in family, belonging and inclusion, and Rafael’s journey through the organisation reflected those values in action. Supported by dedicated local leaders and surrounded by friends, he was able to take part fully and meaningfully in all aspects of JLGB life.

His passing has been deeply felt across the JLGB community. Young people, volunteers and staff alike have reflected on the friendships he built, the presence he brought, and the role he was beginning to play as a young leader.

Izzy Levinson, JLGB National Young Leaders President (18), said:

“Raf was one of the most remarkable people we had the privilege to know. He brought so much energy, warmth and kindness into the lives of everyone around him. He threw himself wholeheartedly into everything he did, and had a way of making people feel welcome, valued and uplifted. His presence could brighten any room, and he will be deeply missed by all of us.”

In Borehamwood, where Rafael was such a familiar and valued presence, the community has come together in the days following his passing, supporting one another and honouring his memory.

Our thoughts remain with his parents, Michael and Alice, his brother Elijah, and all of his family and friends at this most difficult time.

In moments like these, we recognise how important it is to support young people and families through grief. Parents might find this information helpful in supporting their child with grief and loss:
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-a-z-mental-health-guide/grief-and-loss/

In the weeks ahead, the JLGB community will come together to remember Rafael in a way that reflects the impact he had and the place he held within our shared story.

May Rafael’s memory be a blessing.