Meet Jordan Rosenberg & Klara Elbaze, the 2023 recipients of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem Award from Winnipeg’s Gray Academy of Jewish Education!
Jordan Rosenberg has always enjoyed learning and is a natural leader. In addition to his academic success, he is the BBYO regional vice president, and is a lifeguard. More than anything, Jordan is someone who rises to a challenge. An important example of this was being able to soar to being captain and MVP of his JV basketball team, as well as making the best team in the province at the time for his age group. The second is getting a 96 on his grade 11 math final when not feeling strong in math. He notes “it was an incredible feeling, knowing how much work I put into it.”
Jordan formed deep, lasting relationships that he has been able to build with his classmates. It was from these friendships and the support of his family that Jordan was able to take on new challenges and grow both as a leader and a learner.
Jordan also credits Gray Academy for strengthening his understanding of his place in the Jewish world. He notes “The school has taught me how important it is, no matter your religious beliefs, to constantly be an advocate for Judaism and Israel. It has also taught me the value of how religion builds community and provides a common ground between many people, which allows you to grow your circle. As well, I have learned how harmful antisemitism is and have gained some strategies on how to combat it.”
Next year, Jordan will be at the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba. When thinking about the future, he has these aspirations: “Hopefully 5 years from now, I will have completed my degree at Asper, backpacked Europe with friends, and begun to start my career. As well, hopefully, I got the chance to take out AC, do an exchange year abroad, and spend time with my close friends. Finally, I hope I take university as a chance to be as happy and funny as I am now, and not get caught up with stress.”
Klara Elbaze was born in Nice, France. Her kind heart, empathy, and patience have meant she is a steadfast friend in addition to her other gifts.
Klara has an artist’s eye, a diplomat’s approach, and a desire to help others. This was seen in her work with BBYO and student council where she worked diligently to raise awareness and support for causes she cares about. More importantly, Klara’s peers and her teachers saw her interest, resourcefulness, and kindness each day. Klara is the person you can count on to lag behind to check on a classmate who is having a bad day. She is the student who smiles and says hello to staff and students alike as she walks down the hallway. She is passionate about the arts and pottery. Pottery forces the artist to allow the clay to lead them, while at the same time deeply ties us to our ancient history. This is very fitting for Klara as she is a leader that is deeply rooted in her Jewish identity.
Klara loves to be involved in life beyond the classroom. She performed in this year’s musical Mamma Mia and embraced the opportunities that came from many of the school’s trips and Shabbaton experiences. Klara also enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and rock climbing. Her hobbies reflect a love of freedom, challenge, and the vastness of new experiences.
Next year, Klara plans on moving to Israel and studying at the Rothberg International School at Hebrew University. We wish her all the best as she begins her next chapter in life.
