Chani Okonev
Brooklyn, New York
How is your Hero working to make the world a better place?
About 20 percent of Jews in New York are Russian-speaking and are either 1st or 2nd generation immigrants from the former Soviet Union. Russian Speaking Jews have been for decades disengaged from Jewish life (while living in Former Soviet Union and even after immigrating to U.S.). There is a real threat that Russian Jews will fully assimilate in less than one generation, unless their Jewish identity is revived. Chani and the F.R.E.E. OF Brighton Beach organization are dedicated to keep the Jewish spark lit in our community through education. In 2002 Chani was one of the founders of Mazel Day School, a private school that combines specific education goals of the Russian speaking Jewish parent body and Jewish education that is supportive of children from the Russian speaking Jewish community. Her vision and leadership helped build a school that is enriched by Judaism's values and wisdom, a school that cultivates within students the ability to be good students, good friends, and good people, providing a secure foundation which prepares children to thrive in a complex and changing world while maintain their Jewish identity and traditions. Fast forward to Today, Chani Okonov is a principal of Mazel Day School that has grown to a school with over 100 students (1st year 3 students were enrolled )! As a result of Mazel, we are witnessing many Russian speaking Jews who are finding themselves discovering beautiful Jewish culture and traditions. Through Mazel Day School, Chani created a growing comfort and interest in Jewish life and education among Russian speaking Jews. Chani Okonov continues to make the world a better place through her vision, determination, leadership, and love of children.
How has your Hero impacted your life and inspired you?
Chani has impacted the life of many in our community. Chani taught me that through bringing Judaism into our children's education, we can raise the next generation with strong roots of Jewish identity and values. Chani inspired me to get involved with Community and Jewish education and to become a supporter and advocate for Jewish education. She made me realize that it is through education that we can make a difference for our children and our world.