Hanna Hmar: A Profile in Success and an Inspiration

Hanna receiving her scholarship and a book from Hillel Halkin, chairman, Degel Menashe, earlier this year.

(August 6, 2025) In continuing with stories of success, Degel Menashe is proud to introduce our readers to Hanna Hmar, a remarkable 25-year-old from Afula, who is currently in her third and final year as an undergraduate student of Molecular Biology at Ariel University. Hanna's journey is not just about academic achievement; it is also a testament to resilience, family values, and the pursuit of dreams. She made the significant commitment to aliya alongside her parents, Azriel and Ma'ayan Hmar, and her younger brother, Malachi, in 2014, when they relocated from Aizawl, Mizoram, a picturesque state in India known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture.

Hanna, as a child in Aizawl, Mizoram.

Hanna's academic endeavors have been supported by Degel Menashe's scholarship program, which has played a crucial role in her educational journey, enabling her to focus on her studies without the heavy burden of financial stress. This support has allowed her to thrive in a challenging field like Molecular Biology, where she is not only learning about the intricacies of life at the molecular level but also preparing herself for a future where she hopes to contribute significantly to scientific advancements. Reflecting on her childhood, Hanna describes her upbringing in Aizawl, a city that, while not large by global standards, is characterized by its dense population and narrow, winding roads that snake through the hilly terrain. Despite its size, Aizawl is rich in culture and community, providing a nurturing environment for Hanna and her family. She fondly remembers the values instilled in her by her parents, who emphasized the importance of aiming high and working diligently to achieve one's goals. This foundational belief has been a guiding force in her life, motivating her to pursue her aspirations relentlessly. Growing up with a younger sibling, Malachi, brought both joy and challenges for Hanna. She took on the role of a mentor and role model, navigating the complexities of sibling dynamics while also balancing her own academic and personal expectations. This experience has taught her valuable lessons in responsibility, patience, and the importance of setting a positive example. As she reflects on her experiences, Hanna often recalls her guiding principle: "Give your best and accept all outcomes with peace." This mantra not only encapsulates her approach to education but also serves as a reminder to embrace life’s unpredictability with grace and resilience. Hanna's story is a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within individuals who are willing to work hard and stay committed to their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face. Her journey from Aizawl to Afula is not just about geographical relocation; it symbolizes a transformative experience filled with growth, learning, and the unwavering support of family and community. As she prepares to graduate and take the next steps in her career, Hanna Hmar stands as an inspiring figure for many, embodying the spirit of perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge.

The Hmar family, post-Aliya in Israel, 2014.

Hanna describes her initial years in Israel in her own words:

"That first year was incredibly hard. I was thrown into a completely new world, new country, new language, new culture, new friends. I was overwhelmed in every possible way. I still remember calling my parents in the middle of the night, sobbing because I felt so lost. It was one of the loneliest moments of my life. Things began to change in 10th grade. My Hebrew improved, slowly but steadily. I kept a notebook where I wrote down new words every day, determined to understand and be understood. That small habit gave me control in a world that felt too big. And with the language came something even greater a love for learning. My teachers played a huge part in that. You could feel how much they loved their subjects, and their passion was contagious. The subject I loved most was biology. Strangely enough, it was also my most difficult one. Our teacher would dictate everything, and if you missed even a sentence, it was gone, which made it even harder, I’d stay up late preparing for tests, rewriting notes, and learning material line by line. Despite the difficulty, I loved every single minute of that subject. One of the moments I’m proudest of was when my biology teacher personally called me after our final exams. She told me how proud she was, and that I truly deserved my grade. She saw the effort I put in, and for me, that recognition meant more than the grade itself. The biggest challenge I faced was the language barrier. Sometimes I could understand each word in a sentence, yet the sentence still made no sense to me. It’s a strange kind of confusion and one I still face today in my academic studies. Learning to think, process, and speak in a second language is not something that happens overnight. Even after ten years, I’m still adjusting."

Hanna shared with our newsletter that she has always dreamed of becoming a doctor. She believes that saving lives is the most meaningful way to give back to the world. After high school, she served in the IDF and took the psychometric test, but didn't achieve the desired score, which left her disappointed. She then decided to pursue an undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology to stay connected to the subject she loves. As she approaches graduation, her focus remains on the medical field. Over the past few years, she has gained valuable knowledge and plans to take the "Yeda Test" to enter a 4-year medical program in Israel with renewed hope, resilience, and confidence. As she puts it, success is not guaranteed, but the opportunities are certainly available. As she embarks on this journey, Degel Menashe will continue to support her aspirations and wish her all the success in the world!