June 16
🕯 THEME OF THE NIGHT
The through-line: Tell the story. Build the platform. Find your people.
The Needs of the Community
🎬 STORYTELLING, FILM & CREATIVE VOICE
Jamie Denbo (Writer, Producer, Author & Improv Coach) — A television writer best known for her work on Grey's Anatomy, Jamie shared that she is focused on publishing and speaking more openly about her personal experiences. As she continues developing and sharing her story, she is eager to connect with others using storytelling as a tool for impact and community building. She offers deep expertise in writing, creative development, and improv coaching, helping others find and shape their own voice.
Elon Gold (Comedian & Actor) — Elon shared his commitment to putting positive Jewish content into the world and discussed a film currently distributed in Israel that he hopes to bring to broader audiences in the United States. He believes humor and storytelling are powerful tools for strengthening Jewish identity and combating misinformation. He offers a significant platform, entertainment industry relationships, and a passion for championing Jewish stories.
Keren Hantman (Writer, Director & Producer) — Keren works to expand access to Israeli literature and Hebrew storytelling through cultural programming, translation initiatives, and public events. She discussed the challenges of bringing Hebrew works to English-speaking audiences and is actively building support for new funding efforts that can help these stories travel further. She offers deep relationships within Israel's literary and cultural communities, along with opportunities to engage with Israeli culture beyond the headlines.
Alexis Jacknow (Writer & Director) — Alexis spoke passionately about the need for stronger security and greater support for Jewish families and institutions while also reflecting on the role storytellers can play in shaping public understanding. She is looking for trusted allies, practical solutions, and opportunities to channel her advocacy into meaningful action. She offers a bold creative voice, directing and writing experience, and a fierce commitment to standing up for the community.
Ron Rappaport (Writer/Executive Producer) — Ron is currently exploring new media projects, including a podcast focused on Jewish identity, culture, and public discourse, while grappling with larger questions about where meaningful content lives in today's fragmented media environment. He is eager to connect with creators, distributors, and strategists who understand how audiences consume content today. He offers decades of experience as a writer, a thoughtful perspective on contemporary Jewish life, and a willingness to engage with complex ideas through conversation and storytelling.
🎭 IDENTITY, BELONGING & COMMUNITY
Yona Spiedel (Writer) — Yona shared her journey from embracing anti-Israel narratives within progressive and queer spaces to becoming deeply connected to her Jewish identity and Zionism after discovering how much misinformation existed. She spoke candidly about the personal cost of that transformation and her desire to find community rooted in shared values, Jewish practice, and honest conversation. She offers a unique perspective on identity, belonging, and navigating ideological change.
Stefanie Leder (Writer & Community Organizer) — At a professional crossroads, Stefanie shared her desire to become more directly involved in Jewish activism, bridge-building, and community organizing. She spoke about the importance of maintaining relationships across differences and creating spaces where difficult conversations can still occur. She is seeking introductions to others working in these areas and offers extensive experience in community building, facilitation, and fostering thoughtful dialogue.
Steven Singer (Chief Campaign Officer, Jewish Federation Los Angeles) — Steven encouraged the room to stand proudly in their Jewish identity and reminded attendees that sharing their stories is one of the most powerful forms of advocacy available. Through his leadership at Jewish Federation Los Angeles, he is focused on strengthening community infrastructure, building connections, and supporting those who need resources or guidance. He offers access to a broad network, strategic partnerships, philanthropic resources, and a strong belief that Jewish joy is one of the community's greatest strengths.
Mark Hudis (Writer) — Mark shared how encounters with antisemitism in unexpected places have motivated him to become more involved in Jewish communal life and advocacy. Currently looking for meaningful ways to contribute, he expressed a desire to put his skills and experience to work in service of the community. He offers his time, writing abilities, and a genuine eagerness to support projects and people who are making a difference.
⚖️ ADVOCACY, MEDIA & PUBLIC LIFE
Jena Friedman (Comedian, Writer & Journalist) — Jenna spoke about the growing burden Jewish institutions face in funding their own security, particularly spaces serving children, and emphasized the need for broader public awareness and support. Through her work in comedy, journalism, and political commentary, she continues to use her platform to tackle difficult topics and challenge prevailing narratives. She offers a sharp media voice and a willingness to elevate important stories and issues affecting the Jewish community.
Ilene Rosenzweig (Writer, Editor & Marketing Strategist) — A former journalist and longtime media professional, Eileen shared that she has experienced professional consequences for her public advocacy but remains committed to using her voice and skills to support the Jewish community. With a background spanning editorial, publishing, marketing, events, and brand strategy, she is eager to contribute wherever she can have impact. She offers expertise in storytelling, communications, audience building, and content development.
Hillary Povar (PR Executive) — Hillary reflected on how October 7 changed her understanding of antisemitism and shared stories of professionals facing backlash simply for working with Jewish organizations. With more than two decades of experience in public relations, she is passionate about helping important stories break through and ensuring people feel supported when speaking publicly. She offers strategic communications counsel, media relationships, editorial connections, and a highly collaborative approach.
🏛 POLITICAL & CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Sam Yebri (Attorney & Civic Leader) — An attorney representing Jewish organizations and active in both Jewish and Iranian-American civic life, Sam spoke about the importance of supporting moderate political leadership and ensuring nuanced voices remain part of public discourse. Having previously run for office himself, he is passionate about helping others engage more deeply in civic and political life. He offers political insight, legal expertise, community connections, and resources for those interested in advocacy and public service.
🧰 Resources
Project Shema — Raised during the discussion as an important resource, Project Shema is helping workplaces, schools, and communities navigate conversations around antisemitism, Jewish identity, and inclusion. Their work focuses on creating understanding rather than polarization, and several attendees noted the value of their tools in today's environment. They offer trainings, facilitated conversations, and practical frameworks for addressing difficult issues in professional and communal settings.
🎭 THE BIGGER CONVERSATION
Some of the most powerful moments came in the overlap between these worlds—entertainment, advocacy, politics, media, and community building. Many attendees shared stories of professional consequences, social isolation, or personal loss resulting from speaking publicly about Jewish identity, Zionism, or antisemitism. Yet the overwhelming sentiment in the room was not one of fear, but of responsibility.
A few themes surfaced repeatedly:
Storytelling remains one of the community's most powerful and underutilized tools.
Many people are looking for collaborators, not just audiences.
There is a growing need for infrastructure that connects creators, advocates, organizers, and funders.
Jewish joy, culture, and creativity are just as important as fighting antisemitism.
The community already has extraordinary talent—it simply needs more pathways to find one another.