Cecilia Bachana
New York, USA
Born and raised in Manhattan as the oldest of three siblings, Cecilia (Ceci) (they/them) combines their theatre background, with academic expertise in Psychology, Combined Languages (French and Hebrew), and a Master's in Community Development and Planning. These credentials are perfectly aligned with their calling to Jewish advocacy and youth work and come directly after embarking ona choral program in the Republic of Georgia in August 2025.
Growing up with an interfaith background, Israeli heritage, and coming out as queer in high school, Ceci embraced their multifaceted identity early on life. They deepened their Jewish connection through multiple Hillel Israel programs, developing passion for Jewish peoplehood and Israel's future as a diverse, democratic society.
With family roots in Israel spanning generations, Ceci views Jewish identity as inherently connected to the land. Through roles as a Hebrew School teacher, camp counsellor, and student leader, they've combined their love for the Jewish people with hands-on youth work
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For Ceci, the Yahel Social Change Fellowship represents the perfect opportunity to serve Israeli communities while living in the land where their roots run deep.