LAYA SLAVIN

LAYA SLAVIN, FOUNDER OF OUR BIG KITCHEN 

From Moriah to Making a Difference
In a recent conversation with Laya, a 1988 Moriah College graduate and former School Captain, we explored her journey from her formative years at Moriah to her impactful work in the community. Her experiences reveal a life dedicated to connection, teaching, and personal growth, underpinned by values learned at Moriah.

What is your favourite book?
Honestly, I'm not a reader. I learn from talking to people. This method of learning was exemplified during an insightful encounter with John Howard and his wife, who provided invaluable advice on family life. I asked them to give me a tip on raising a beautiful family, and they said, “Have dinner together every night.” The importance of family dinners is a practice I hold dear.

What do you remember most about your time at Moriah?
I fondly remember the school's culture of respect and encouragement. What I remember most is the mutual respect and the fact that the teachers allowed us to shine for what we were good at. Entering the school in Year 7 as a very religious girl, I wore long sleeves and skirts and didn’t participate in social events like parties or concerts. Despite struggling academically and feeling anxious about schoolwork, I found a supportive environment at Moriah. There was such a beautiful atmosphere of kindness and respect. The teachers overlooked my academic weaknesses and helped me thrive. I loved talking, so I joined the debating team, which became my outlet.

How do we navigate a world that is dominated by technology?
My answer would be Shabbat. I view the weekly day of rest as a divine gift meant to provide a necessary respite from technology. I think Hashem, in His ultimate wisdom, knew what technology was going to be and knew that we would need to have a break from it.

Tell us about the career path that you have followed since leaving school.
I describe my talent as a gift for connecting with people, a passion that has shaped my career and personal projects. Every talent that Hashem gives you needs to shine in the world. My love for connecting with others is reflected in my career trajectory. Initially interested in teaching and hairdressing, I found a unique way to combine these passions. After completing a hairdressing course and working with religious women, I used my skills to support women undergoing chemotherapy. I made women look beautiful, but I wanted to do more. When a woman came in before losing her hair, we copied her hairstyle exactly to give her confidence. I also provided meals and emotional support.
This support extended to a creative initiative where I provided meals to chemotherapy patients and asked them to keep an exercise book detailing their favorite recipes. Once their treatment was over, these women would come into my kitchen to pay it forward and cook their favorite recipes for the next women undergoing treatment. The food they were eating was from someone who survived what they were fighting. This project led to the creation of a community kitchen, which my husband built for me. I describe it as my "Taj Mahal"—a place where I can share my happiness in giving with others.

What advice would you give to our current students?
I encourage current Moriah students to focus on kindness and giving. There’s enough pressure from around the world and social media. My advice is to be kind to yourself but also to taste what it feels like to give to others. No house or holiday will make you happier than giving. Every student should recognize their unique purpose. Every child should feel they’re here in this world for a reason. If they understand that their mission is to bring someone into their circle who might otherwise be alone, they could change that child’s narrative for the rest of their life. 

How has your experience at Moriah shaped your values?
I remember very little of what I learned academically at Moriah, but I distinctly remember how the students and teachers made me feel—loved, respected, and valued. My journey highlights the enduring values of respect and kindness fostered at Moriah. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of community and the importance of nurturing one’s unique talents. I hope to inspire current and future students to embrace their roles in making a difference.