Why Do Jewish? Igniting and Maintaining Jewish Pride
In an era where we can choose our own identities, why choose to identify as Jews? How do we make Jewish life meaningful, relevant, and future-focused?
Sydney Jewish Writers Festival, in partnership with the JCA invites you to join us for an inspiring evening with Zack Bodner, a leading voice on Jewish Peoplehood, community, and action. In his book Why Do Jewish?, Bodner reframes the approach from being Jewish to doing Jewish offering a bold, modern framework for living a purpose-driven Jewish life.
In a TEDx-style talk, Bodner will share his approach to Jewish identity and action before sitting down with Alain Hasson, CEO of JCA to explore how we actively shape the future of Jewish life. The evening will be enriched with live music and poetry from multidisciplinary artist, Skye Beker.
This event blends big ideas, honest dialogue, and creative expression, exploring the intersection of ritual, activism, and art in shaping Jewish identity today.
Presenters
Zack Bodner
A seeker, writer, storyteller, and community organizer, Bodner is also the driving force behind the Center for Social Impact, which tackles global challenges such as poverty, disaster relief, racial justice, and civic responsibility.
As the author of Why Do Jewish?, Bodner challenges us to rethink Jewish identity – not just as something we are, but as something we actively do.
In an era where young Jews are redefining their connection to Israel, culture, and tradition, Bodner offers a fresh, inspiring framework for embracing Jewish life on our own terms.
Alain Hasson
Alain Hasson is the CEO of the Jewish Communal Appeal (JCA), where he has served for over a decade, with the past four and a half years as CEO. During his tenure, Alain has steered JCA through the Covid-19 pandemic and led the organisation to its most successful general campaign, raising $14.3m. Before becoming CEO, he led JCA’s Planning department and was responsible for the annual allocations process. Alain played a key role in the delivery of the Gen17 survey and the 2016 Jewish Census report and supported the structural development of the Youth to Israel program. He is also a member of The Giving Forum steering committee.
Skye Beker
Skye Beker is a singer, actor, and graduate of the WAAPA Acting Program. Her theatre credits include the Australian premiere of Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 (Darlinghurst Theatre Company), Tall Poppy (Blonde Moment Theatre Company), Things I Know To Be True (New Theatre Company), and MinusOneSister (SALT Theatre Company). Skye recently appeared on the new ABC television show Optics (dir. Max Miller) and in several short films, notably Fruity (dir. Caitlyn Royson). She is also featured in upcoming projects such as the television show The Last Anniversary (dir. John Polson) and is leading a musical short titled Interlude (dir. Elder).
Or Ben Omri
Or Ben Omri is a music producer, songwriter, composer, mix engineer, and multi-instrumentalist (guitar, drums, bass, and piano), originally from Israel and now based in Sydney. He studied music and sound engineering at BPM College and Ono Academic College. Or has worked with well-known artists in Israel, with his productions being played on the country’s top radio stations. He has also edited and mixed sound for TV commercials, radio ads, and short films. Or previously worked at Aiodi, a company specializing in AI-driven music services for musicians.