CELEBRATING Alumni SUCCESSES

From gaining admissions to prestigious institutions like Harvard to achieving remarkable success at renowned film festivals, our Moriah alumni are making significant contributions across the globe. Their diverse journeys exemplify the power of determination and creativity, showcasing accomplishments in various fields, including academia, arts, and entrepreneurship. As they forge their paths, these inspiring individuals not only excel in their careers but also give back to the community, serving as mentors and role models for current students. Join us as we celebrate their latest achievements and explore how their stories are motivating the next generation of leaders and innovators. If you have a story of success, please share it with us by emailing us.

Tasha Pillemer (Class of 2023) has received a scholarship to the esteemed Parsons School of Design, the top design school in the USA.

From Moriah College Captain to guiding future generations of legal professionals, Melanie Schwartz (Class of 1995) has achieved a remarkable milestone in becoming a professor within the faculty of Law and Justice at UNSW.

Jared Super (Class of 2021), Isaac Wine (Class of 2020), Adam Marks (Class of 2018) and Jesse Ende (Class of 2010) were all named in the Top 36 Under 36 at the Jewish Changemaker Awards 2024. These awards recognise the young activists, leaders and entrepreneurs who make a difference in our Jewish community. We are honoured to have so many of our alumni on this list.

Talia Bernstein, (Moriah alum), was named the Young Adult Volunteer Award category winner at the Jewish Changemaker Awards in 2024 for her initiative that provides respite and support to teachers and families in the South of Israel following the events of October 7. Talia’s initiative changed the lives of so many individuals and provided a much-needed lifeline to so many vulnerable children.

Zac Wiesel (Class of 2017) was nominated for 'Best Video' at the 2024 ARIA Awards. This recognition marks a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his dedication and talent in the music video industry.

Moriah Alumni, Linda Margolin Royal (Class of 1980), Elana Benjamin (Class of 1991), Dr Roz Bellamy and Anna Stern (Class of 2001), Tami Sussman (Class of 2004), Jonathan Seidler (Class of 2005) and Steph Seskin (Ivany) and Rebecca Solomons (Class of 2007) were all involved in the Sydney Jewish Writers Festival. It is a great achievement to have their talent being recognized on such a prestigious platform.

Gil and Oren Ben-Moshe (Class of 1990) attended the world premiere of their latest cinematic masterpiece, 'Anno 2020'! ⁠ Recent accolades for the film include the 'Best Experimental Film' award at the Titan International Film Festival, Quarter-Finalist status in the Best Film category at the International British Film Festival 2023 and official selection into the Symbiotic Film Festival in Ukraine! ⁠ Completion of Anno 2020, which was shot around the world at the height of the strict Covid-19 lockdowns, was truly a triumph in the face of adversity.

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Elana Benjamin’s (Class of 1991) cookbook, Indian-Jewish Food: Recipes and Stories from the Backstreets of Bondi, was published by the Sydney Jewish Museum. Her cookbook is about sharing Sephardi-Mizrahi cuisine and culture with the wider Jewish community, promoting diversity and instilling pride in Jewish identity.

Eden Shifroni (Class of 2017) was awarded first prize at the 2024 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition, Australia's most prestigious opera competition. She received the 2024 Marianne Mathy Scholarship ($30,000 towards professional development), as well as the Audience Choice Award.

Gabriella Mordecai (Class of 2021) released her debut single ‘Silent tears’ in 2024.

Ralph Marshall (Class of 1980), Paul Khodor (Class of 2009), Sarit Michael and Doron Chester (Class of 2011) played an integral role in Sydney klezmer fusion band, Chutney's, new debut album, Ajar. With Paul on piano and Ralph on base, Sarit and Doron feature as guest singers on the album. Ajar is a degustation of folk, funk, reggae, disco, samba, jazz, swing, Dixieland, pop, classical, musical theatre, circus and film.

Linda Royal (Margolin - Class of 1980) published a book called 'The Star on the Grave'. Linda's book is based on the true story of her own family's story of escape during WW2 and an incredible Japanese diplomat who saved 6000 Jews from extermination during the Holocaust.

Miriam Levy (Class of 1989) has recently published her grandfather’s memoirs - 'The Engineers' by Henry Reiss. ⁠The book serves as a captivating account of survival during WWII, offering readers an insightful journey through the history of Soviet and then German occupied Poland, and Hungary, as well as the roots of antisemitism and its dangers.

Singer-songwriter Shawn Meyer (Class of 2012) and his band Melrose Avenue have recently been signed by the US Record Label ‘Hopeless Records’. Much of Shawn’s training was from the incredible Music Department at Moriah College. The band has been on tour recently in The USA.

Gaby and Ali Rosenberg

Gaby Rosenberg (Class of 2014) and Ali Rosenberg (Class of 2010) won the Finance category of the 2024 Australian Young Entrepreneur Awards with their co-founded Blossom App. These awards honour Australia’s most exceptional young business leaders.