Los Angeles · USA
Aish LA
Aish LA’s mission is to inspire every Jew to begin their own spiritual journey by connecting them to Judaism and each other. We are revitalizing the Jewish people by providing opportunities for Jews of all backgrounds to discover their heritage in an atmosphere of open inquiry and mutual respect. Aish’s educational philosophy is that Judaism is not all or nothing. It is a journey where every step counts, to be pursued according to one’s own pace and interest. Torah wisdom provides opportunities for personal growth; enriching our own lives and that of all humanity.
The Jewish Men’s Initiative (JMI) is a dynamic community for Jewish fathers in Los Angeles. Men come together to explore Judaism, strengthen values within their families, and enhance their perspectives. Through meaningful outtings, bonding opportunities, and unforgettable trips, members build lifelong friendships while deepening their understanding of Torah values. Signature programs like Israel trips and weekend retreats provide the chance for personal and spiritual growth. JMI fosters a sense of brotherhood and shared aspirations among its members. With passionate leadership by Rabbi Aryeh Markman, Rabbi Azriel Aharon, and Rabbi Shlomo Seidenfeld, JMI continues to impact the men positively inspiring productivity and empowerment.
Rabbi Aryeh Markman has served as the Executive Director of Aish HaTorah Los Angeles since 1994. A graduate of the University of Illinois with distinction in Finance, he discovered Aish HaTorah in Jerusalem during a transformative visit to Israel. Opting for Talmudic studies over MBA offers from prestigious universities, Rabbi Markman earned Smicha/Rabbinical Ordination under Rabbi Noach Weinberg, the Dean and Founder of Aish HaTorah. In 1991, he and his wife Rochel moved to Los Angeles, where they are proud parents and grandparents of children stretching across 10 time zones. Rabbi Markman is known for giving all the quality time necessary to connect people to who the resources they need and is a very passionate teacher of Judaic studies. Most recently, Rabbi Markman orchestrated the first ever Jewish American Summit (2024) in dedication to his father.
Azriel Aharon is the COO and CFO of Aish LA and Director of the Jewish Men’s Initiative (JMI), where he plays a vital role in empowering fathers through personal and spiritual growth. Rabbi Az uses his Jewish journey to inspire and connect with those who attend his events and plays a major role in supporting the Jewish community. Aharon is also an EMT and has taken initiative as a responder for Hatzolah for almost 25 years. Az and his wife Debbie, the proud parents of five children, have hosted over 10,000 people for Shabbos meals for over 30 years. Az enjoys cycling, CrossFit, triathlons, and plays guitar, blending passion with purpose in every aspect of life.
Shlomo Seidenfeld is a known speaker and leader within Jewish Men’s Initiative and the general Jewish community. With his expertise in communication, mental health, relationships, and business, he has guided a variety of people spanning all ages to live a more fulfilling life. Starting his career in Jewish education he served on both coasts where he would find his community on the west coast.. He was the Director of Isralight Los Angeles and to this day takes wisdom from his colorful career milestones and applies it to his classes. Today he lives in Los Angeles teaching, running his real-estate investment firm (Nourmand & Associates) and kvelling as a proud father with his wife and three daughters.
The Jewish Women’s Initiative (JWI) empowers Moms in Los Angeles to embrace and share the wisdom of Judaism in their homes and communities. By offering lessons, socials, and international trips, JWI creates opportunities for meaningful learning, personal growth, and connection. Women build relationships, deepen their understanding of Jewish values, and strengthen their families. Signature programs include Shabbat dinners, community events, and an inspiring Israel trip in partnership with Momentum. JWI celebrates the transformative power of Jewish women to uplift their families and enrich the world around them.
aishla.com
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Los Angeles, CA, USA
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