At 84 years old, Holocaust survivors Greg and Rya Shershnevsky continue to inspire generations with their extraordinary lives. This year alone, Greg has shared his Holocaust testimony with thousands of students, urging them to speak out against injustice. His message is clear: “Be an upstander.” He often echoes the words of Albert Einstein: “The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything.”

Greg’s story is especially poignant. At just seven months old, his mother, Rose, made an unthinkable choice—placing him in a bucket outside the gates of the Vilna Ghetto in a desperate attempt to save his life. That act of love was met with an act of courage: Alexandra Drzevtska, a devout Catholic woman, risked everything to rescue Greg and other Jewish children. Her heroism earned her recognition from Yad Vashem as one of the Righteous Among the Nations.

Earlier this month, Greg and Rya added a new chapter to their legacy—earning black belts in Tae Kwon Do. After three years of rigorous training, they completed their black belt test before an audience of hundreds. With grace, focus, and determination, they embodied the physical and inner strength that has defined their lives. Under the guidance of Master Khechen, they proved that true courage is ageless—and the human spirit knows no bounds.

At a time in life when most are slowing down, Greg and Rya are still breaking barriers and defying expectations.  We honor their extraordinary accomplishment and the enduring legacy they continue to build—one of bravery, perseverance, and boundless inspiration.