MEET THE TEAM
The Jewish Center is headed by Rabbi Shmaya & Chana Waks. We are committed to providing inspiring and thought-provoking experiences that are grounded in Jewish values and traditions. With a focus on lifelong learning, we offer classes and programs that cater to all ages, from young children to seniors.
Rabbi Shmaya Waks
Rabbi Shmaya Waks is an accomplished Jewish leader and educator, known for his dedication to serving the community. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Rabbi Shmaya Waks pursued his education in Brooklyn, New York, where he attended The Talmudical Seminary Oholei Torah at the age of seventeen. Following this, he continued his studies at 770 Central Lubavitch Yeshiva in Brooklyn, NY, where he received his Rabbinical Ordination (Semichah). In 2004, Rabbi Shmaya Waks and his wife Chana relocated to Hollywood, Florida, where they founded The Jewish Center on Griffin Road. As Executive Director, Rabbi Shmaya Waks has demonstrated exemplary leadership and continues to serve the Jewish community with his wife and ten children. Rabbi Shmaya Waks' passion for education and community service has been a driving force throughout his career. His unwavering commitment to the Jewish community has earned him the respect and admiration of those he serves.
Chana Waks
Chana is a dedicated educator and Rebbetzin with a passion for Jewish education and community building. Born in Miami and raised in Pennsylvania, she completed her high school education at the Yeshiva Schools of Pittsburgh before furthering her studies at Beit Chana, a teacher's seminary in Tzfat, Israel. In 2004, Chana and her husband, Rabbi Shmaya, moved to Hollywood, Florida to serve the local Jewish community. Chana has been teaching for over two decades and takes pride in connecting with the women in her community.
Rabbi Chaim Feldman
Batsheva Feldman
Yuval Dorani
Yuval Dorani is a dedicated member of the Jewish community, raised with strong Jewish values and actively involved in Jewish life in both Israel and the United States.
Since November 2023, Yuval has been serving full-time as a Religious Programs Coordinator at Family Shul, where she coordinates religious programming in accordance with Jewish traditions, assists with services and holiday observances, and supports ongoing educational and community initiatives.
Brendel Bogomolni
Brendel is a compassionate individual who was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a keen interest in assisting those in need and fostering a thriving Jewish community. In 2017, she relocated to South Florida and has been warmly welcomed by The Jewish Center. She is actively working at the Jewish Center to help her local community by providing valuable aid and support.