Yvonne "Weisgrab" Penkavova
Historian, Influencer
Yvonne, an accomplished graduate in Hebrew studies from the Department of Middle Eastern Studies, is currently immersed in her Master's program in Political Science at Charles University. Her research is dedicated to the exploration of modern Jewish history and the evolving Jewish identity within the Czech lands before the onset of World War II. Beyond academia, Yvonne's influence extends to social media, where she actively engages and nurtures a meaningful connection between Jewish youth and their rich historical heritage. Intriguingly, she employs her ancestral family name, Weisgrab, as a pseudonym, cleverly intertwining her personal journey with her family's historical roots.
Yvonne's activities
For the past half-decade, Yvonne has been on a heartfelt mission to kindle a deep appreciation for Jewish history and heritage across the landscape of the Czech Republic. With a genuine passion that knows no bounds, she stands before audiences on the European stage, sharing her insights through captivating lectures.
But Yvonne's journey isn't confined to the lecture hall. It's a path that takes her on captivating adventures through the countryside, where she unearths the stories of forgotten Jewish heritage sites, carefully documenting their silent tales.
Yvonne offers personal guided tours of the treasures that Jewish Prague holds, adding a personal touch that brings history to life. Yvonne's dedication isn't just about history; it's about building bridges between generations and cultures, weaving a tapestry that connects the past with the present.
But Yvonne's journey isn't confined to the lecture hall. It's a path that takes her on captivating adventures through the countryside, where she unearths the stories of forgotten Jewish heritage sites, carefully documenting their silent tales.
Yvonne offers personal guided tours of the treasures that Jewish Prague holds, adding a personal touch that brings history to life. Yvonne's dedication isn't just about history; it's about building bridges between generations and cultures, weaving a tapestry that connects the past with the present.
Lecture about the abandoned Jewish heritage of the Czech republic at the Centre of Judaism in Paris organized by the European Jewish Association.
Speech about her research and the danger of antisemitism at the EU delegation to Auschwitz - Birkenau.
Israel J. Yuval, Director of Historical Department at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem on a tour of the Jewish Quarter with Yvonne.
In Israel during an interview with the son of Gideon Hausner, the prosecutor of Adolf Eichman. His book justice in Jerusalem is documenting his father's legacy.
Research of abandoned Jewish heritage in countryside is important part of Yvonne's work.
Yvonne held a presentation about Terezin ghetto research at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York in January 2019.
Grave stone of August Stein, leading personality in Czech-assimilation Jewish movement in late 19th century.
Rudy Rochman, a well known Jewish rights activist from Israel on a tour of the Jewish Quarter with Yvonne.
With Rabbi Meir Lau, the formal chief rabbi of Israel in Krakow during a delegation of EU dignetories to Auschwitz.
Visiting the Czech senate to talk about mandatory Holocaust education and the necessity of Jewish history inclusion in the general narrative of Czech history.
With Czech survivor Hana who published a book "Hanna's journey'. Yvonne had a lecture for children in primary school to prepare the for a visit by Holocaust survivors.
Yvonne was invited to the Ministery of Foreign Affair in Jerusalem for an educational excursion and panel with diplomats.
INSTAGRAM @Yvonne_Prague
You can find Yvonne's Instagram page about Jewish history here.
ACTIVISM
Synagogue in Volyňe used as a night club by the name "Disco Caribic!.
''During the years of the communist regime, Jewish history disappeared from the common knowledge of the Czech nation. Many synagogues were abandoned, used as garages, stables, or even demolished. Only now, 80 years after the Holocaust, the general public has a chance to learn about Jewish history and heritage in their country. My goal is to bring awareness of Jewish presence in regions and make sure that the Jewish sights are respected and acknowledged. It is the responsibility of our generation to preserve what we still can." - Yvonne
Jewish Prague Tours
00 420 608 931 093
terezin-private-tours@hotmail.com
00 420 608 931 093
terezin-private-tours@hotmail.com
