A new generation of leaders is stepping forward to shape the future of Jewish life in Johannesburg. Several candidates with diverse backgrounds and experience are standing for election to the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) Johannesburg Council on October 11. They bring a wealth of experience from various areas of Jewish communal and professional life, with the aim of contributing to the Board's work.
The election will see affiliate organizations, including synagogues, schools, women's organizations, and youth movements, vote for their representatives. The 20 candidates vying for 15 seats on the council have unique perspectives and ideas on how to serve the community. Many have worked with the SAJBD before and are eager to make a greater impact. National director of the SAJBD, Wendy Kahn, emphasized the importance of electing leaders who will represent the community effectively and stand up for their interests.
Among the candidates is attorney Sarah Levy, who was co-opted onto the SAJBD Gauteng Council in 2025. She has gained valuable insight into the organization's operations and is now standing for election to utilize her professional expertise to serve the community. Levy shares the Board's commitment to ensuring that South African Jews can participate fully in all aspects of life in the country.
Gila Abramson, a construction law practitioner with 17 years of experience, is also standing for election. She believes she can help advance the Board's goals, particularly in upholding the civil and religious rights of South African Jewry. Abramson's personal experience of raising three daughters in South Africa makes the work of the Board even more significant to her.
Darren Bergman, with decades of community service and political experience, is another candidate. He has served as a ward councillor and member of Parliament and believes his experience can benefit the SAJBD. Bergman emphasizes the importance of unity and networking in promoting the community's stability and contribution.
Other candidates, including Monica Solomon, Mark Oppenheimer, Bethia Milner, Joseph Gerassi, and Benji Falkson, bring a range of experiences and perspectives to the election. They have been involved in various communal and professional endeavors, including education, advocacy, and community leadership. Each candidate has expressed their unique vision for serving the community and contributing to the SAJBD's work.
The SAJBD Johannesburg Council election is set to bring new perspectives and ideas to the community. With a diverse range of candidates vying for seats, the affiliate organizations will have a crucial role in shaping the future of Jewish life in Johannesburg. The election outcome will determine the leadership of the community and the direction of the SAJBD's work in the years to come.
Key points
- New candidates bring diverse experience to SAJBD Johannesburg Council
- Election to determine leadership of Jewish community in Johannesburg
- Candidates aim to contribute to SAJBD's work in promoting Jewish life in South Africa
