November 20, 2024 marked a significant milestone for JoCI: one year of the Los Angeles JoC Professional Network. Held on the stylish private patio of Nua, a Mediterranean restaurant in Beverly Hills, this celebratory event brought together JoC professionals and a few dedicated allies to honor a year of connection, growth, and community-building.
In just a year, the Los Angeles Professional Network has become a cornerstone of JoCI’s programming. Supported by the generous funding of the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (JCFLA), the Los Angeles Professional Network has created opportunities for JoC professionals to gather, develop skills, and thrive within an inclusive and vibrant community. The wide range of fields and backgrounds represented by its participants give the LA Pro Network a unique and dynamic character that distinguishes it as a model of community revitalization.
Celebrating Milestones and Building Connections
The evening was a testament to what the JoC Professional Network has achieved in just one year: turning strangers into collaborators, peers into friends, and a nascent community into a powerful professional network. Arya Marvazy, JoCI’s Senior Director of Programs, who launched and runs the network reflected on the its success:
“In just the course of one year, we’ve seen a collection of strangers become this tight-knit, often-collaborating, richly networked community. What we experienced last night was the beauty of a community that deeply believes in the potential and power of Jews of Color to contribute to the fabric of Jewish life.”
Jordan Daniels, JoCI’s Program Officer (pictured below, right), elaborated on the depth of personal and professional connections that the LA Network has empowered people to make:
“This time last year, people were meeting in this room for the first time. Now, they’ve become great friends, sharing Shabbat regularly. It’s been deeply personal for everyone, showing how the JoC community can show up for itself and be there for each other.”
Terry Wunder, the Assistant Executive Director at Valley Beth Shalom in Los Angeles and Executive Board Committee member at JPro, recently relocated to Los Angeles in search of a more diverse Jewish community:
“Six months ago, when we were considering moving to LA, an important part of our decision was that we’d be closer to more Jews of Color and this JOC network. To be there last night with such great vibes, great connections, and great data, was a joy.”
A Night to Remember
The evening’s program featured rich moments of reflection, intention, and inspiration. Guests participated in interactive activities such as an Authentic Relating workshop led by Sophia Morgan, a look at emerging data on Latin JoC in LA from Analucía Lopezrevoredo, listened to inspiring words on Jewish values from community leader Yehudah Webster, and engaged in meaningful conversations about their experiences with the LA Network and their hopes for the future.
The evening provided an opportunity for guests to mingle and deepen their connections—or to meet for the very first time. One participant, Vanessa Andersen, remarked that “It was the largest event I’ve ever attended with JoCI Pro Net. I was in awe of everyone present—some attendees were people I’ve come to know and love, and some were people I’ve admired from afar. It was surreal to be in the same space of so many awe-inspiring people.” JoEl Meeks-Matous, a first-time attendee, echoed Andersen’s statement:
“It was wonderful—premium decor, great nosh, and amazing participation with speakers and guests alike. My first event and definitely not my last!”
Many attendees expressed how the event reinforced their connection to the JoC community and inspired them to approach roles in shaping Jewish life more intentionally. Yarin Hagay Nevel described the evening as “a space where community, personal and interpersonal reflection, and spirituality intertwined beautifully. It was safe and pluralistic in every way.” JCFLA funder Charlotte Friedman added, “The energy in the room was incredible—it felt so alive and full of joy. There was a real sense of belonging, and everyone felt connected in such a meaningful way. It was one of the best nonprofit events I’ve had the privilege of attending.”
Looking Ahead
The event was not only a celebration, but also a launching pad for future collaboration and leadership. Arya Marvazy noted the incredible energy and eagerness in the room:
“As soon as the presentations ended, the first question was, ‘What’s next?’ This is not a graduation—it’s the beginning of something even bigger. The momentum is incredible, and I’m excited to see where it takes us.”
With one year in the books and boundless opportunities ahead, the Los Angeles JoC Professional Network is poised to continue its work fostering belonging, leadership, and innovation in the LA Jewish community. JoCI extends immense gratitude to JCFLA, the dedicated Host Committee, and all who have contributed to the Network’s success.
As JoCI celebrates this milestone, the energy, joy, and connection of the Los Angeles JoC Professional Network offers a glimpse into a more inclusive and vibrant Jewish future.
Jews of Color in Los Angeles, register for the next LA Pro Network gathering on January 22nd, 2025! Location TBD.
