September Bulletin Ref4

Spotlight on New Members: Gabriela Maraschin and Shay Reboh

Editor’s Note: One of a series of articles from the Membership Team to introduce those who have recently joined B’nai Sholom.  This month we welcome Gabriela Maraschin, Shay Reboh and their three children: Yael, Yohan and Liv.

 This is Shay’s second time living in the Capital Region. He lived here for work from 2015 to 2018 and returned one year ago.  Shay is from Brazil originally but spent part of his childhood in Israel. After finishing his Ph.D. in Brazil, he moved with his wife, Gabriela, and daughter, Yael, to France where they lived for the past 15 years. While in France, Shay and Gabriela had two additional children, Yohan and Liv.

Shay is a scientist in semiconductors at IBM. He and his team have been working on new technologies that hopefully will be on the market in a few years. Shay shared that it’s very exciting and challenging work. Gabriela worked as a TV reporter in Brazil but with the move abroad and no family close by, she changed her professional work so that she could care for her children. Having more free time and flexibility, Gabriela decided to start her own business as a jewelry designer. It’s her new way to tell stories, since she draws inspiration from the places they have traveled.

In their free time, the family enjoys their camper van and exploring new places. They also enjoy surfing, skating and biking. Shay recently renewed his interest in cycling. “It’s been great to discover the region with my bike. I’m still convincing the rest of the family to come with me,” he said.

When asked what attracted them to B’nai Sholom, Gabriela said, “We attended a Shabbat service at B’nai Sholom when we arrived in the Capital Region. I remember many people (members) came to introduce themselves and welcome us. We immediately felt at home. People are kind, curious and easy to connect with.”

“We lived most of the past 15 years in the French countryside, far away from any Jewish community or temple. Our move to the Capital Region is an opportunity to reconnect with our culture and religion, and especially bring my kids closer to Judaism. I want them to have the same strong sense of identity and belonging I have. I know Judaism will give them grounding and perspective to deal with any and every situation in their lives.”

When asked if there was anything else they wanted the congregation to know about their family, Shay said, “I would like to thank the congregation members for welcoming me, my wife Gabriela, and our kids Yael, Yohan, and Liv, so warmly. We are grateful to be joining this vibrant community! We are looking forward to getting involved in some activities, building meaningful relationships, enriching our spiritual lives and strengthening the bonds that make our community strong and resilient.”

Welcome Shay, Gabriela, Yael, Yohan and Liv!