There
are people whose names, over time, cease to belong solely to themselves. Their
names become symbols of trust, responsibility, fidelity to their word, and
devotion to their people. For Bukharian Jews around the world, Mr. Levi
Leviev is such a person.
As
we congratulate him on his 70th birthday, we wish to speak not only about an
outstanding entrepreneur, public figure, and philanthropist, but about a legacy
that cannot be measured by numbers or the scale of business achievements. After
all, the true value of a person is determined not by how much they have created
for themselves, but by how much they have done for others.
Over
the years, Levi Leviev's name has become an integral part of the modern history
of the Bukharian Jewish community. Thanks to his vision, energy, and personal
dedication, the World Congress of Bukharian Jews has become a true
unifying force, connecting communities across continents.
New
York, Jerusalem, Vienna, Düsseldorf, Tel Aviv, Toronto... The geography of the
gathering changes, but their purpose remains the same - to preserve the unity
of our people, support one another, safeguard our traditions, and pass on the
memory of our heritage to future generations.
Today,
when the world is becoming increasingly divided, this mission is more important
than ever. President Levi Leviev has created a space where people of different
generations and from different countries truly feel like one extended family.
It is reflected in vibrant community centers filled with life; young people
whose education became possible through generous support; elderly individuals
who were not left alone; families brought together; and children raised with
pride in their Jewish heritage. It is through these countless lives that a
person's true legacy is built.
Since
this congratulatory message is being published in Ladies' World Magazine,
we would also like to recognize a strength that often remains behind the scenes
- the remarkable woman who stands beside a great man. For many years, Mr. Levi Leviev
has been blessed with the unwavering support of his wife, Olga Levieva -
a wise, gracious woman of impeccable taste, gifted with the rare ability to
create an atmosphere of warmth wherever she goes. She has never sought the
spotlight, yet she is the one who keeps the family united, preserves the warmth
of the home, and provides the quiet strength that enables her husband to
accomplish great things.
Many
also know Ms. Olga Levieva for her charitable work. A special place in her life
belongs to the organization "Connecting Hearts," which helps
young people build Jewish families. For our people, a shidduch has
always been far more than introducing two individuals - it is a sacred mission
of helping create a new Jewish home and ensuring the continuity of future
generations. It is no coincidence that this cause has become so dear to Olga
Levieva, for whom family has always been life's greatest value.
In
2003, Ladies' World Magazine together with the Esther-a-Malka
Organization honored Olga Levieva with the title "Woman of the
World." It is especially meaningful today to remember that our
magazine was among the first to recognize her kindness, wisdom, generosity, and
selfless devotion to her people.
Every
parent hopes that their children will inherit not only the family name but also
continue the work of a lifetime. President Levi Leviev has every reason to be
proud of his children, who have preserved the family's values and continued
serving the Jewish people. A particularly inspiring example is his daughter, Hagit
Sofieva-Levieva. As President
of the Congress of Bukharian Jews of the USA and Canada, and the first woman to
hold this position, she has fulfilled her responsibilities with dignity,
carrying forward her father's mission while bringing fresh ideas, a modern
vision, and dynamic leadership to community life.
Dear
President Levi Leviev,
On
behalf of Ladies' World Magazine, we warmly congratulate you on your
remarkable 70th birthday.
We
wish you good health, enduring strength, continued inspiration, and many long,
happy years ahead.
May
your beloved wife Olga, your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren,
your loyal friends, and the worldwide Bukharian Jewish family always remain by
your side—a family for whom your name has long become a symbol of dignity,
leadership, and devoted service to our people.
May
the greatest reward for the years you have lived continue to be the love of
your family, the respect of your community, and the gratitude of all those
whose lives you have touched with support, hope, and a sense of belonging.
Happy
70th Birthday, dear President Levi Leviev!
With
deepest respect and gratitude,
Dr.
Zoya Maksumova
Editor-in-Chief, Ladies' World Magazine
Rena
Elizarova
Literary Editor
