Aki Estamos: An Extraordinary Evening Celebrating 110 Years of our Community

Our International Sephardic Community Gala was nothing short of exhilarating—a joyous, moving, and deeply meaningful celebration that marked the official launch of our 110th anniversary year. More than a Gala, the evening was a powerful testament to Sephardic continuity, resilience, and pride, bringing together generations of community members to honor our shared past and boldly affirm our future.

Over 250 guests gathered for this extraordinary evening, representing Sephardic communities from across the United States and around the world. Attendees traveled from as far as Istanbul, Amsterdam, London, and Athens, underscoring the truly international spirit of the gathering. From the moment guests arrived, the room was filled with warmth, anticipation, and the unmistakable feeling that this was a historic moment—one that honored 110 years of community life while setting the tone for the years ahead.

A Celebration of Sephardic Culture and Joy

The gala pulsed with energy throughout the night, immersing guests in the richness and diversity of Sephardic community. A vibrant musical program featured Avram Pengas and the Noga Group with live Greek, Ladino, Turkish, and Israeli music, weaving together sounds that reflected the many homelands and histories of our community. Music flowed seamlessly into the evening, inviting guests not only to listen, but to dance and party together—reminding everyone that culture lives most powerfully when it is shared.

A special highlight was the performance by a Turkish Jewish dancing troupe from our own community, whose artistry and enthusiasm brought tradition to life on stage. Their performance was met with enthusiastic applause and pride, serving as a reminder that Sephardic heritage is not static—it is living, dynamic, and joyfully passed from generation to generation.

The culinary experience was equally unforgettable. Guests enjoyed a carefully curated array of foods and drinks inspired by Sephardic cuisines, each bite evoking memory, place, and tradition. The shared table became another expression of community—where stories were exchanged, laughter echoed, and connections were deepened.

Voices of Leadership and Vision

The program featured inspiring remarks from community leaders who reflected on the meaning of this milestone moment. Sedat Behar, President of the Sephardic Brotherhood of America, spoke about the organization’s enduring mission and the responsibility carried by each generation to preserve and strengthen Sephardic life. His words emphasized continuity, unity, and the pride that comes from knowing who we are and where we come from.

Gala Chair Lexi Fellus reflected on the collective effort that made the evening possible and on the importance of creating spaces where Sephardic identity is celebrated openly and joyfully. Her remarks highlighted the passion and dedication of volunteers, supporters, and staff who work year-round to sustain and grow the community.

A specially produced 110th anniversary video was unveiled during the program, offering a moving visual journey through the Brotherhood’s history. Featuring voices and faces from across generations, the video beautifully captured the diversity, warmth, and strength of our multigenerational community that continues to evolve while staying rooted in its values.

A Powerful Youth Voice

One of the most emotional moments of the evening came with remarks from Simeon Maman, Student President of our new Sephardic Youth Movement: Bivas – Ladino High School Club of America. Speaking with eloquence and conviction, Simeon offered a powerful reflection on what it means to inherit Sephardic tradition as a young leader today.

His words resonated deeply with the audience, bridging generations and affirming that Sephardic identity is not only being preserved, but actively embraced by the next generation. Many guests noted that his speech embodied the very future the community is working to build—one grounded in pride, learning, and responsibility.

Honoring Extraordinary Leadership and Service

A central highlight of the Gala was the presentation of awards honoring individuals whose leadership and service exemplify the best of Sephardic values.

Joel Benoliel, the former Chief Legal Office of Costco, was presented with the Lifetime Community Service Award, recognizing his decades of dedication, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the Sephardic community, through programs like the Zehut Yosef Siddur Series, the Seattle Sephardic Network, and the Brotherhood itself.. His contributions have left a lasting imprint, inspiring countless others to lead with humility and purpose.

The Young Leadership Award was presented to Sarah Levin, Executive Director of JIMENA - Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa, whose passion, vision, and engagement represent the promise of the next generation. Her leadership reflects a deep connection to tradition alongside a forward-looking approach to community building.

The evening also honored Mitch Julis, Co-founder of Canyon Partners LLC, with the Service to Humanity Award, recognizing his broader humanitarian impact and commitment to making the world a better place. His work stands as a powerful example of how our values extend beyond the community and into the wider world.

Each honoree was met with heartfelt applause, gratitude, and admiration, as guests reflected on the many ways leadership and service strengthen communal life.

Aki Estamos — We Are Here

Throughout the night, one phrase echoed again and again: Aki Estamos — We Are Here. More than a theme, it was a declaration. It affirmed that despite centuries of migration, challenge, and change, Sephardic Jews remain vibrant, connected, and proud.

That spirit was present in every detail of the evening—from the music and food, to the speeches and embraces, to the shared sense of purpose that filled the room. Torah values, tradition, pride, and care for one another were not just spoken about—they were lived in real time.

As the evening came to a close, guests left feeling uplifted, inspired, and deeply proud to be part of this community. The Gala served as a powerful reminder of our shared legacy and the bright future we are building together.

Mersi muncho—thank you to all who joined us, supported us, and celebrated with us. And Si Kere El Dio, with God’s help, here’s to 110 more years of a thriving, resilient, and joyful Sephardic community.