Riva Hadary is a licensed tour guide in Israel who has built a career marked by diverse experiences and a unique ability to connect cultures. Since 2014, she has led groups from Brazil, Portugal, and Italy, offering authentic and enriching experiences in partnership with travel agencies and Israel’s Ministry of Tourism.

In recent years, she has expanded her work into the digital sphere, producing audiovisual content and managing dynamic communication across social media, with the goal of keeping the connection between international audiences and Israeli reality alive.

Her professional journey also includes leadership roles in the cosmetics industry and the real estate sector, always with a focus on management, marketing, and human relations.

Educated in multiple fields—from business administration to mediation and specialized tourism—Riva holds certifications that reflect her pursuit of knowledge and cultural dialogue. She is currently pursuing a B.A. in Humanities, further deepening her perspective on the world and on people.

A polyglot, she speaks Hebrew, Portuguese, English, and Italian, with good proficiency in French. Her communication skills, combined with multicultural experience, make her a professional who moves naturally between different audiences and contexts.

1. Identity and Journey

Looking at your life today, how would you describe who Riva is and what values define her?

Riva is a Jewish woman, a guide in Israel, who studies and dedicates herself to learning more about the words of God and the Torah, bringing together history and archaeology to teach all those willing to learn. She also has a deep love for humanity and takes an interest in every person she meets—especially those in need—always striving to help in any way she can.

2. Languages and Culture

You are multilingual. How has this ability shaped your worldview and integration in Israel?

I don’t consider myself a polyglot, but I speak Portuguese (with an accent), Hebrew, English, Italian, and French. This ability makes it easier to communicate with people in their own language, breaking down barriers and building trust.

Every time I meet a foreign visitor in Israel, being able to converse without language difficulties makes all the difference. Explaining what Israel and the Jewish people are—in their own language—is very important.

One challenge I often face is Bible translation. Today, there are very few legitimate translations. Many translators don’t translate the words themselves but instead explain according to their own interpretation or opinion, which often leads to serious mistakes. My strength lies in Hebrew, and I always correct errors that can sometimes be fatal. This is a skill I developed here in Israel.

3. Personal Interests

Beyond professional and community life, what activities or passions bring you balance and inspiration?

I greatly enjoy physical activity. Every day I practice Tai Chi, I do Pilates twice a week, I walk almost daily, and I also use the elliptical machine I have at home. After exercising, I always meditate. I love dancing—wherever there’s good music, you’ll find me.

But my greatest passion is my grandchildren. I try to see them at least once a week. I have six grandchildren from my three children.

My other great passion is studying the Bible. I participate in an online course once a week, and this study inspires me deeply and strengthens my spirituality.

Your arrival in 1968 marked the beginning of a long journey. What feelings and challenges accompanied that decisive moment of making Aliyah?  

The decision to make Aliyah was my parents’, and as a child I accompanied them. I remember it being very emotional for me because I was part of the Zionist youth movement Hashomer Hatzair. For me, it was an honor, and everyone looked at me with pride, as if I were fulfilling the dream of the movement.

But when we arrived in Israel, it was difficult. First, it was one of the harshest winters in many years—it even snowed in Tel Aviv—and we arrived at night. Everything seemed wet, and I wasn’t used to the cold. As we disembarked from the ship (yes,........

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