For several years, the Jewish Federation of Ottawa has maintained an active Instagram page, @jewishottawa, connecting the community with engaging content and important updates. Building on this strong foundation, two new program-specific accounts have now been launched to provide more tailored content to their unique audiences.

 

As Oren Baray, the new Young Adults Engagement Associate, and Eriel Ben-Gal,  the new PJ Library Coordinator, settle into their new roles, they are spearheading this exciting initiative to  expand their programs’ social media presence.  These new accounts are designed to foster deeper connections and greater engagement with their respective communities.

 

Oren and Eriel recently shared their thoughts on why they believe now is the right time to introduce these pages and what they hope followers will gain from them.

 

E-Bulletin: Why do you think it is so crucial to launch these pages now?

 

Eriel Ben-Gal: It is important to launch these pages now because we are trying to build a community that goes beyond in-person events and expand our reach to a virtual audience. It is important to make our community feel included online by sharing resources and posting on a regular basis. This will also allow us to connect with our community in real time and update them on upcoming events and programs.

 

Oren Baray: In times like these, it’s more important than ever for our Jewish community to connect and support one another. Many young adults I’ve spoken to have found it challenging to make new friends. Some are moving to the city for work, while others are returning after years away, only to find a city that feels entirely different. Through the Instagram page, my goal is to create a space where young adults can connect both online and, more importantly, in person to form new friendships and build a thriving Jewish community right here in Ottawa.

 

E-Bulletin: What is your vision for these pages?

 

Eriel Ben-Gal: As previously mentioned, the PJ Library Ottawa Instagram page will keep our families updated on the latest community events and programs. I will be sharing photos from events as well and shout outs to businesses and professionals that we work with. I also want to share some of my favourite PJ Library books and activities with you. I want this page to be interactive and fun!

 

Oren Baray: Through these pages, I aim to reach Jews of all denominations in Ottawa —whether they’re active in a synagogue or identify primarily through culture. The goal is to discover new and innovative ways to come together as a community. Posts will feature upcoming events, professional opportunities, and other community gatherings. As we gradually build a following of energetic young adults, emerging professionals, and future leaders of Ottawa, we’re thrilled to be part of this movement toward a stronger, more connected Jewish community.

 

If you are active on Instagram, go follow these new accounts today! PJ Library’s account is @pjlibraryottawa and Jewish Ottawa Young Adults’ is @jewishottawa_ya. Young families, young professionals, and others who want to keep up with these branches of Federation are encouraged to follow and interact with them online to increase their reach throughout the community, and to stay up to date with the latest programs and events.

 

For people who have questions about anything related to PJ Library, feel free to reach out to Eriel at eben-gal@jewishottawa.com, and anyone who has questions about Jewish Ottawa Young Adults can reach out to Oren at obaray@jewishottawa.com.