Pronouns: She/Her
maristella@kehillasynagogue.
I grew up in Venezuela before moving to Boston for high school. I then attended the University of Texas in Austin, receiving a degree in Hebrew and Middle Eastern Studies. With a deep affection for languages, travel, and exploring other cultures, I was fortunate to live in Israel and France and became fluent in Hebrew and French in addition to English and Spanish.
I spent many years in Austin, Texas, where my two daughters were born, and where I started a couple of businesses. Since 2009, I have been living in Dallas, Texas, where I have worked for Jewish nonprofits and in corporate positions. In 2018, I brought my mom from Venezuela to live with me.
My mom and I are thrilled to be moving to Oakland to be close to my daughter, and I’m excited to bring my skills and experience to Kehilla. As a dedicated professional with a passion for social justice and community building, I am deeply inspired by Kehilla’s commitment to progressive ideas, spiritual growth, and the profound values of tikkun olam.