(Courtesy of Nefesh B’Nefesh) A West Long Branch, New Jersey woman recently hopped on a plane with her wedding dress in hand, sparking curiosity and romantic intrigue for all on her flight. Kinneret Kanik, 22, moved to Israel from New Jersey last week with her wedding dress and suitcases in tow. Her incredible journey to make aliyah with Nefesh B’Nefesh began after visiting Israel after October 7, when she met Yitzchak, who’s now her fiancé.

“I feel like I am still on cloud nine and haven’t landed yet,” Kanik said. “Building a home inspired by Torah and Jewish values in Israel is the customary blessing given to a new bride and groom on their wedding day. Seeing this blessing come to fruition and being able to fulfill my dream is truly the best feeling in the world. I’m so grateful to Nefesh B’Nefesh for helping me through this process.”

Currently, Kanik is an emergency medical technician, driven by the inspiration she gained from the war and aspires to contribute to the advancement of medical services in Israel.

Kanik’s journey to Israel, in which she moved to Jerusalem, was made possible with the support and guidance of Nefesh B’Nefesh, in collaboration with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, the Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael and JNF-USA.

“It is inspiring to see bright young olim like Kinneret showcasing their unwavering Zionism and strong Jewish values by choosing to build their new homes in Israel both physically and spiritually,” said Rabbi Yehoshua Fass, co-founder and executive director of Nefesh B’Nefesh. “We wish Kinneret and Yitzchak mazal tov on their upcoming wedding and much success as they begin to build their new Jewish home together in Israel.”