How long have you all been a part of CJP and how did you get involved?

I have been volunteering with CJP for just over five years, and am currently co-chairing the Young Adult Executive Committee with YLDer extraordinaire, Abby Wilk. I originally got involved with CJP shortly after moving to Boston from Jerusalem because I wanted to know more about the unique qualities of the Jewish community here, and be a part of shaping its character too!

What was your first young adult event?  What was your favorite event?

I'm pretty sure one of my first events was an Open House Party and I remember feeling excited about the number and range of young adult organizations in the community. I still love the open house events--it's exciting to see the number of organizations grow each year and to welcome new and newly curious faces.

How would you like to leave your footprint on the young adult community?

I hope that my involvement with the young adult community will contribute in some small way to a culture of experimentation and innovation, both in Jewish practice and in modes of Jewish connectivity.

What is your favorite (Jewish) childhood memory?

Most people would probably file this under least favorite childhood memory, but I loved cleaning for Passover. We played a particular record on loop, with beautiful Sephardic melodies for the songs in the Haggadah and it made the scrubbing and dusting fly by. Finishing my chores also held the promise of treats from the kitchen and a lively "study break" with my father in preparation for the Seder.

Tell us three fun (Jewish) facts about yourself.

1) Although my last name is Heinstein, I'm half Moroccan.

2) I spent several formative years in Israel, including kindergarten and grad school.

3) I love to sing and have always enjoyed leading services, singing songs around the Shabbat table, and learning new melodies from Jewish communities around the world.

If you could have dinner with one Jewish person (living or dead) who would it be and why?

I would want to meet Ofra Haza--the Israeli vocalist of Yemenite descent who was a mega-star in the 80s and 90s. I grew up listening to her powerful voice and was always awed by her musicality and presence. Her voice and musical work cut across so many stark divides--she was loved by Israelis of all ethnic backgrounds and by a broad audience in Yemen and other Arab countries.