Yael Gabbaizadeh is the person who makes everyone feel instantly comfortable. A big personality with loads of charismatic charm, Yael is an extrovert on a mission to help Jewish teens feel more connected to their roots during the magical years leading up to college. As a Cteen leader, Yael acknowledges she’s been given a tremendous gift. In planning her chapter’s events, she has been on the frontlines of fostering a stronger connection between teens and Judaism. 

 

Inspired by past leaders, Yael seeks to make the experience a positive one for her peers and the greater community. With that dream made real, Yael uses her amazing people skills and a talent for public speaking for a more unified chapter. 

 

A strong advocate of more monthly events, Yael has bumped up the numbers of Cteen events in Great Neck. In addition to planning countless Shabbat lunches and events like challah bakes, sukkah hops, and poke bowl nights, Yael also managed her chapter’s participation in the Washington D.C. Shabbaton. As a result of her efforts, her chapter had enough people to be able to attend the Shabbaton for the first time. 

 

“I know I’m outspoken. But it’s made people stop and listen,” she explains. “I love to discuss everything about Israel, Cteen, and Judaism. When I meet new people at school, I make sure Cteen is on their calendar for the next big event.”