On September 25th, we celebrated our beautiful community with a phenomenal performance by Ishtar Esther Alabina at SHAI’s 32nd Anniversary Gala at the iconic Guastavino’s in New York City, with over 550 guests. After 354 days of our hostages still in Gaza, it has been a difficult year for Am Yisrael. The evening was one of unity – unity of heart, of history, and of mission. As SHAI co-President Erika Goldstein Kashi, speaking on behalf of herself and co-President Dr. Edwin Azarkian-Cohen, explained, this was the inspiration for this year’s Gala theme. In Hebrew, the number 32 also means “heart.” SHAI and its partners work together, with one heart, year-round in support of our brothers and sisters in Israel, our hostages, our army, and our community. The Gala also highlighted the true heart of SHAI and our dedicated board members, and the tremendous impact we have had on thousands of families! It was an evening celebrating WE!

The evening’s keynote speaker was Mrs. Nazee Moinian, a long-time leader and outspoken advocate for our community.

We honored strong pillars, leaders, and advocates of our beautiful community. Congratulations Parvaneh, Lisa, Sheila, Ari, and Fabien. The Gala honorees represented three categories of exceptional leadership and achievement.

Powerhouse community leaders:
Mrs. Parvaneh Khodadadian has dedicated 50 years to our community’s senior citizens, and Mrs. Lisa Ohebshalom’s 25 years of dedication to WIZO has improved the lives of battered women, orphans, and the financially disadvantaged.

Global voices and community advocates:
Dr. Sheila Nazarian, a successful plastic surgeon, and Mr. Ari Ackerman, serial entrepreneur, have both gone above and beyond as staunch leaders, philanthropists, advocates, and supporters of the Jewish people, using their voices, fame, success, and social media platforms to combat antisemitism and support our people. Deputy NYC Mayor of Communications Mr. Fabien Levy fights against antisemitism alongside NYC Mayor Eric Adams, creating a safer and more secure city for everyone.

Student leaders:
Eric Kalimi, Talia Dror, and Benjamin Souferian represent both Yeshivot and public schools, and are all extraordinary role models for the next generation.

The program was capped off with a fun and entertaining concert with IDF veteran and Israeli singing sensation Ishtar Alabina, her band, and her Gypsies, sponsored by an anonymous donor. Alabina had the entire community dancing, singing, laughing, waving Israeli flags, and joining her on stage. Everyone truly revelled in this epic celebration.

SHAI is grateful to our elected officials for their support of our organization, the community, and the Gala. SHAI is also proud to have so many incredible partners in the organizations with whom we work hand in hand, including WIZO, the Moise Safra Center, NCJFE, HINENI, End Jewish Hatred, Great Neck Public Schools, and all of our local yeshivot including LIHA, North Shore Hebrew Academy, and Ramaz.

The evening’s beautiful ambience was created by Jolee Events, in Guastavino’s beautiful space and with delicious food by Lederman Caterers. SHAI board member Shawn Raffi produced the AV and videos, Alex and Amir provided the music, and Jovon Photography took the beautiful photos. Guests were gifted with a beautiful copy of the brachot and simanim for Rosh HaShana, in anticipation of the holiday. A portion of the event’s proceeds were donated to United Hatzalah of Israel for their efforts every day as medical first responders. This incredible evening was made possible by SHAI’s founders Lee Harounian, Joe Amirian, Fred Ohebshalom, and Saeed Amirian; our co-President Erika Goldstein Kashi’s dedication and vision; and our entire Board of Trustees, their spouses, and families. We are truly grateful to all of our sponsors and co-chairs, whose generosity and hard work made the Gala a success.

The evening concluded with an After Party called Shai on the Rocks, spearheaded by Alexa Hakim Moinian and our dedicated Young Professionals committee. Over 200 members of our next generation of leaders ate, mingled, and danced in Guastavino’s after our incredible Gala. Decorated like a club in Positano, the event space gave off fun, light, vacation vibes. Guests enjoyed music, a gelato station, and delicious hors d’oeuvres. Special thank you to DJ Amir for making it a fun evening.