Europe.
Mentsh United.
Loud
for what
matters
MENTSH, pronounced [mɛnʃ], is the Yiddish term for an empathetic person who acts with dignity and integrity and takes responsibility for their community. They navigate life's ups and downs with kindness, consideration, respect, and understanding for others. Simply put: genuinely likeable and human.
Our initiative MENTSH UNITED builds on these universal values. Based on the positive concept of MENTSH, we promote exchange and understanding between people through diverse formats from arts and culture. With music, dance, and film, we want to create spaces where diverse stories can be told and new connections can be forged.
We are united by our shared longing for freedom, respect, and humanity. Together with you, we want to contribute to a pluralistic and democratic society in Europe where different perspectives are heard and valued. We are convinced that our differences don't divide us, but enrich us.
FILM
60sec.mentsh
60sec.mentsh is a documentary film series about Jewish life in all its facets. Each episode tells the story of a person who feels part of Judaism in a precisely crafted 60 seconds. Personal, approachable, surprising.
In one minute, we learn what drives this person, we hear about his dreams and also about his challenges.
MUSIC
MENTSH UNITED feat. SHANTEL
12 musicians, one vision: celebrating diversity, showing attitude - and with plenty of bass, beats and a message! MENTSH UNITED is not a normal ensemble - it's a vibe. Founded in Europe, artists of different origins, nationalities and religions bring a sound to the stage that says loudly: Europe is colourful, democratic and united against hate. Against anti-Semitism, against prejudice - for more togetherness.
23 October 2025 - Chianni - Tuscany
MENTSH UNITED Ensemble
All dates:
Our sounds
- your favourites
Our playlist: A mix of our songs and the community's top picks.
Follow us @mentsh_united
FAQ
MENTSH UNITED is a European cultural project that raises awareness of Jewish life through music, film and other cultural formats. Through creative projects, we create spaces for dialogue and empathy for a new understanding of Jewish life in Europe.
60sec.mentsh is a 60-second documentary series about Jewish people in Europe. Each episode shows a life, a story, an encounter – short, intense and personal.
The ensemble is the musical heart of the project: 12 international musicians who combine Jewish, European and global sounds. Under the direction of SHANTEL, the ensemble performs rousing concerts throughout Europe.
Our mission is to make Jewish life in Europe visible and to combat rising anti-Semitism in creative ways. We stand confidently for a pluralistic and modern Europe. We build bridges and break down prejudices with cultural projects.
MENTSH, pronounced [mɛnʃ], is the Yiddish term for an empathetic person who acts with dignity and integrity and takes responsibility for their community. They navigate life's ups and downs with kindness, consideration, respect, and understanding for others. Simply put: genuinely likeable and human.
MENTSH UNITED is an initiative launched in Cologne in 2024 by the organization JEWLIF (Jewish Life in Europe). Our goal is to send a strong signal for a democratic and pluralistic Europe through cultural projects and positive energy. We are taking a firm stand against antisemitism and persistent prejudice. MENTSH UNITED is funded by the German Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI), based on a decision by the German Parliament (Bundestag). Since 2025, we have a partnership with the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance for an exchange program between its students and the MENTSH UNITED ensemble.
Additional film series, music productions, workshops, educational programmes, and international events. MENTSH UNITED is constantly growing and bringing people together across national borders. If you have any ideas, please feel free to send us an email.
Yes, we operate throughout Europe and already have partners in various countries such as Spain, France, Italy and Israel.
Stay tuned and get all the latest on MENTSH UNITED!
A big thank you to our partners and supporters:
