Message from Chair Keith Black
It is often said that nothing happens and then everything happens at once. We have all hopefully enjoyed a break over the summer and now returned to the hectic High Holy Day preparations, the onset of a new school term and return to our work routines. As we navigate these shifts, we find a rhythm that presents not just change, but also a promise of consistency and stability.
Similarly, our own organisation is moving into a new chapter. To our loss, but our member Kisharon Langdon’s gain. Co-CEO Michelle Janes will be leaving the JLC to take up a new role of Chief Transformation Officer with the task of harmonising the two organisatons. Michelle is being entrusted with the significant and rewarding challenge of integrating Kisharon and Langdon. Michelle has been an extremely effective co-CEO of the JLC and brought so much to the organisation over her years of service. We are all excited for Michelle and we look forward to seeing her continue to flourish at Kisharon Langdon, a member organisation that has shown visionary leadership over the past year in overcoming the challenge of merging two charities.
I am, however, delighted to share that Claudia Mendoza, formerly serving as co-CEO with Michelle, will now become the sole Chief Executive of the organisation. As part of this transition, we will be recruiting a Chief Operating Officer to work alongside her. Few can match Claudia’s thorough understanding of the JLC, the community and the external challenges it faces. As a leader, she seamlessly combines diligence and competency. I know that the organisation will have continuity and stability, as well as the opportunity for growth under her leadership going forward. I am certain you will join me in congratulating both Michelle and Claudia.
Rosh Hashanah reminds us of the importance of self-examination and the opportunity to seek forgiveness and reconciliation. This has been on my mind recently when thinking about the situation in Israel, something I have written about in this week’s Jewish Chronicle. I know that many in our community are deeply concerned by the disunity within Israeli society right now.
A titanic struggle is underway to define Israel's future and we fervently desire that compromise and moderation should replace conflict and extremism. Our community will of course continue to support the state of Israel and all its inhabitants as we have done since its inception and we will continue our work against the enemies of the state.
In the face of the challenges that the world continues to present us, the strength and resilience of our community is ever more important.
As we sound the shofar and come together with family and friends, let us remember the values that define us as a community: faith, family, and community. Together, we can face any challenge and celebrate every triumph.
Shana Tovah U'Metukah! May you have a sweet and prosperous New Year filled with good health, happiness, and unity.
Keith Black
Chair, Jewish Leadership Council
