Yoanna Cohen Benchabo

I proudly come from a traditional Sephardic family, with roots deeply embedded in Moroccan Jewish heritage.  My ancestors come from various parts of Morocco, including Tangier, Alcazarquivir and Oujda.  On my mother's side, the family eventually settled in Spain, while my father's side moved to France; both left Morocco after the establishment of the State of Israel.  My Moroccan background shapes almost every aspect of my day-to-day life, from values to customs.  It's a rich a beautiful culture that I carry with immense pride.

I was raised in a modern Orthodox, traditional home where Jewish values were not only observed but deeply cherished.  We are Shomer Shabbat, observe the holidays and keep kosher.  Judaism is lived with both pride and love in our home, which extends to our extended family as well.

I heard about it from my friend, Sol Simha Bensabat, who I grew up with and who now lives in Israel.  We both felt the same yearning for a spark of inspiration in our Jewish lives, and she encouraged me to apply.

The stipend certainly helps maintain consistency and discipline, but it wasn't the reason I joined.  I was truly in search of something that would spiritually and personally inspire me--a framework to deepen my Jewish journey through thoughtful and relevant conversations.  TPF offered exactly that.

One of the most meaningful aspects of my experience has been my connection with my mentor, Goldie Abraham (of Olami Souled).  She has not only guided me through the Fellowship but has genuinely helped me grow.  We usually follow a weekly rhythm: I listen to a podcast, reflect on it by writing down my thoughts, and then present those reflections to her.  Our discussions are rich and layered, with each of us bringing our own perspectives.  I feel incredibly grateful for her mentorship and the depth of our conversations.

Yes.  Our discussions opened my mind about marriage and dating (topics to which my mind was closed off beforehand).  Also, we discussed many podcasts about how to love myself and about understanding the point of existence.  I've learned how to believe in G-d a bit better and understand better why believing in G-d is everything.

I am currently exploring the theme of Personal Development and Growth, which resonates with me deeply.  My favorite speaker so far has been Lord Rabbi Jonathan Sacks.  His wisdom continues to move and inspire me.

Today, I consider myself a traditionally observant and proud Jew.  Being a student abroad, I am fortunate to have a strong and welcoming Chabad community here in Budapest, which helps me stay grounded and connected.

{Editor's note:  Yoanna's mentor Goldie Abraham testifies, "This August will be a year since we started TPF together.  She's so consistent.  I see how she implements the Torah learning into her life.  Her way of life and perspective and relationship with Hashem and her positivity have changed immensely since we started, especially when she tells me certain situations that happen in her life and how she handles them (now) so differently.  She even referred another one of her friends to learn with me.  Thank G-d, she's growing incredibly."}

Life has not been the same since October 7.  Emotionally and spiritually, I think many of us feel forever changed.  I have witnessed antisemitism--not directly towards me, but in many forms around me.  At first, I felt compelled to speak up and take a stand.  But as the situation worsened, and given that I live alone as a student, I've found myself keeping a lower profile in public spaces.  It's a difficult and painful balance between courage and self-protection.

“It has been nothing short of transformative--a journey that has empowered me to grow spiritually, reflect deeply and reconnect with my Judaism in the most meaningful way.”