ELANA BENJAMIN

PUBLISHED AUTHOR AND CO-FOUNDER OF SEPHARDI MIZRAHI VOICES AUSTRALIA

In a warm and engaging conversation, alumna Elana Benjamin, class of 1991, shared her journey from her high school years at Moriah to her current endeavours, emphasising her commitment to preserving Sephardi-Mizrahi traditions and embracing one’s true self.

What is your favourite memory from your time at Moriah?
What truly stays with me is the incredible sense of community. Even after more than 30 years, I still feel that connection when I run into old classmates. It’s more than just shared school years; it’s about our Jewish identity and the deep, enduring connections we have through community and historical experiences.

How did you navigate your career path and find your passion?
After finishing school, I went straight to university and worked in corporate insurance for many years. While I enjoyed working with great people, I needed more flexibility once I had children. I found myself stuck in part-time roles that I was overqualified for. One day, I came home and told my husband, “That’s it. I’m done with corporate. I’m going to pursue my writing.” I found a mentor and began writing articles for magazines and newspapers. Recently, I finished writing a cookbook of Indian Jewish food.

Your studies changed direction a few times. Can you tell us about that?
Neither of my parents went to university, and I was on an academic scholarship at Moriah. I had skipped a year in primary school, so I graduated high school at just 17. I had no idea what I wanted to do. I initially planned to study chemical engineering, but within two days, I knew it wasn’t right for me. Fortunately, my ATAR allowed me to switch to law school in my first week of university. I even did work experience with the Jewish News during school, thinking journalism might be my path. I found an old feedback form where my mother expressed doubts about this career, but my careers advisor had written next to her comment, “Not if you’re good at it.”

What advice do you have for the next generation of graduates?
Making decisions about your future at a young age is incredibly challenging. If possible, take a year off to work or travel. Pursue what you love and what draws you in. While sometimes earning a living is necessary, it shouldn’t be your primary goal. It’s just not sustainable over a 40-year career. Be open to trying new things and don’t fear failure—it’s part of the journey. Try to build an identity that goes beyond your achievements.

How did the idea for a Sephardi-Mizrahi cookbook come about?
My parents were born in Bombay, now Mumbai, and are from the Baghdadi Jewish community. I grew up in Australia within the Ashkenazi community, but my close family network was all Sephardi. As a child, I felt the disconnect between my home life and school culture. I realized I didn’t learn about Sephardi-Mizrahi Jewry in school, which sparked my interest to learn more. The idea for my cookbook, “Indian Jewish Food,” emerged when I was invited to present a Food & Words event for Shalom last year. I realized I didn’t know how to cook many traditional dishes, so I called my mum to learn. I decided to document these recipes not just for myself, but to share with a broader audience. My book celebrates the cuisine of India’s Baghdadi Jews and showcases Sephardi-Mizrahi culture, fostering pride in our heritage.

Do you have a parting message for us?
I’d like to share a reflection on self-acceptance and authenticity, inspired by a parable about Rabbi Zusha. He lay crying on his deathbed, and when his students asked why, he said he was afraid that when he got to heaven, God wouldn’t ask him why he wasn’t more like Moses or Abraham, but rather, “Zusha, why weren’t you more like Zusha?” It’s a powerful reminder that each of us is unique and has something special to offer. Even if you’re still figuring out who you are, embrace your individuality and be proud of it.