the jewish 100 list 5783

Fashion icon Iris Apfel is over 100 years old and still looks fabulous. She challenges society’s belief that a woman loses her spark once she hits 40. Iris’ spark is as bright as ever and you’ll know it the second you lay eyes on her. An icon since the 50s, Iris continues to be a stunning example of Jewish excellence.

Fashion stylist Liz Teich runs the popular blog TheNewYorkStylist where she helps would-be-fashionistas put together amazing wardrobes in affordable, sustainable ways. Liz also often writes about her experience as a mother to two young children. Her insightful blog is a great, often inspiring, sometimes humorous but always interesting, read for anyone.

At only 23 years old, Swell Ariel Or has already made waves as a talented actress. Her best-known role is that of Luna Ermoza in Netflix’s hit show The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem. The historical drama focuses on the creation of Israel, but that’s not where Swell’s advocacy ends. Swell is outspoken about Israel, being Jewish, and her personal experience surviving a terror attack. Her talent and bravery are only beginning to show themselves to the world. You’d better stay tuned!

Matt Hoffman is the creator of Jewish Facts Daily — an Instagram and TikTok account that educates the public about Jewish life, history, facts, and current events. Matt’s work has helped elevate Jewish issues globally to over 115,000 people on Instagram alone.

Aly Raisman is an Olympic Champion gymnast who has been outspoken and proud of her Jewish identity. In the Olympics, she even did her floor routine to “Hava Nagila.” Aly was a part of the groundbreaking expose of the USA Gymnastics trainer Larry Nasser who sexually assaulted dozens of young girls. Aly’s courage and leadership helped support the other victims of the incident. Her story has inspired countless young Jews to speak up in the face of injustice.

One of Israel’s rising political stars, Asaf Zamir has already served in many key positions. A former deputy mayor of Tel Aviv, he served in the Knesset as the Minister of Tourism, and the Consul General to New York, before acting on his principles and resigning in protest of the extreme government reform. Zamir is a rare statesman, values-driven and working on behalf of Israel and Jews no matter what the personal or political consequence. He is currently in the running for the Mayor of Tel Aviv.

Being influential is one thing, but how about being un-fluential? Unintentionally influential is how Hillary Cohen labels herself and her brand. She may not have asked for the power to influence others, but she knows how to use it well. This Jewish mother of twins is funny, witty, and relatable. If you haven’t fallen under her spell yet, you will!

NBA star Deni Avdija is an Israeli Jew who first showcased his basketball career in Israel’s Premier League. In 2020, Deni was picked up by the Washington Wizards NBA team. It’s wonderful to have someone like Deni Avdija as a role model for Jewish children to look up to. He works hard and he plays even harder.

Jordyn Tilchen is a journalist, editor and SEO professional who’s worked for The New York Post, Page Six, MTV News, Bustle and several other renowned publications. She’s a proud Jewish voice off and online and we enjoy following her. Look out for this one…

Have you ever been told that you don’t look Jewish? We know the feeling. Photographer Jenny Abrams decided that she’d take that age-old statement and turn it on its head. Her account, @youdontlookjewish on Instagram, showcases Jewish faces and communities from around the world. These photos portray how diverse Jewish faces are and, hopefully, will encourage people to stop and think before proclaiming that others ‘look’ Jewish or not.

In the world of culinary art, Chef Solomonov is a legend. He is the founder of the renowned Philadelphia restaurant Zahav which received the James Beard Foundation “Outstanding Restaurant” Award in 2019. He has also been Awarded “Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic” in 2011. His restaurant Laser Wolf was named one of the “50 places we’re most excited about” by the New York Times in 2021 and his documentary, “In Search of Israeli Cuisine” much like his best-selling books, received audience applause. We admire how this brave Jewish chef is outspoken about his identity.

Liz Kleinrock is the founder of Teach and Transform, an anti-bias, anti-racist teacher training group. Liz is a Korean, Jewish, and queer author and consultant. Her group, Teach and Transform, has partnered with many organizations such as Nike, the University of Oregon, and Teach for America. Through her work for justice and equality, Liz has reached countless people and never minimized her Jewish identity. We adore her and are so proud of her contribution to Jewish life.

British soccer legend (footballer, for all of you non-Americans) David Beckham has been very open about his Jewish identity, though few seem to know about it. Beckham even has a Hebrew tattoo. More recently, Beckham was interviewed in front of a Synagogue where he said the Hamotzi and spoke out about how he is proud to be a part of the Jewish community.

Kat Graham is an actress, singer and model known for her work in the Vampire Diaries. Kat was born to a Liberian father and a Jewish mother in Switzerland, but was raised in Los Angeles where she attended Hebrew school. She also has a half brother who lives in Israel. Kat has been outspoken about her dual identity and how proud she is of being Jewish.

Jeff is the CEO of the San Francisco based Koret Foundation since 2005. In this capacity, he oversees and leads all of the Foundation activities. Jeff’s community and philanthropic leadership activities span numerous roles in both the general and Jewish communities. He currently serves on the board of overseers of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University; the board of governors and the audit committee for the Commonwealth Club; the board of American Friends of Koret Israel Economic Development Funds; Israel on Campus Coalition; and the national executive committee of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. He is a trustee at the Center for Human Rights Leadership at his alma mater, Claremont McKenna College. His commitment to the Jewish people is admirable (does he even sleeps doing all of this work?) and he’s definitely one of our top Jews worldwide!

Lani Mekeel is a Jewish Lakota Activist based out of LA. She describes herself as a pro-peace activist and she frequently talks about her experiences being a mixed Lakota-Jew. She unhesitantly points out the hypocrisy of some activists and groups who hold double standards for Jews. Lani is uniquely able to speak to a variety of indigenous topics and we are proud of her for using her voice to stand up for justice for all.

The Second Gentleman of the United States, Doug Emhoff, is the first Jewish person to ever be in the position. As the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, Doug has been a strong voice against antisemitism from day one. Under his guidance, the White House has taken a tougher stance on antisemitism and held multiple discussions with student activists to fight back against the disturbing trends on American campuses.

Julian Brass is a certified health coach, a best-selling author, an angel investor, a brand builder, AND a keynote speaker. That’s a lot to have on one plate, but Julian still finds time to regularly post advice and motivational quotes on his platforms.