Flyer - Scholar in Residence

Ono Ethiopian Researcher is Scholar-in-Residence in Toronto

Rabbi Dr. Sharon Shalom, founder and director of the International Center for the Study of Ethiopian Jewry at Ono Academic College, served as Scholar-in-Residence at the Shaarei Shomayim Synagogue in in July. During his visit, Rabbi Dr. Shalom addressed the congregation multiple times, sharing his personal journey from Ethiopia to Israel, his experiences as a rabbi and am academic, and his emotional service as a Major in the IDF during the Iron Swords War, where he led Casualty Care Teams supporting bereaved families.

Throughout the Shabbat, Rabbi Dr. Shalom engaged the community in thought-provoking discussions on Jewish identity, Ethiopian Jewish heritage, and the global challenges facing the Jewish people in the wake of rising antisemitism and moral confusion following the October 7th attacks.  

Rabbi Dr. Shalom also took time to connect personally with members of the community and participated in intimate conversations with both youth and adults, leaving a lasting impression with his warmth, insight, and inspiring story of resilience and leadership.

Rebbetzin Avital Shalom also took part in the weekend’s programming, sharing her experience in community development and welfare work in Israel. A veteran public servant, she currently serves as the Tekomah District Supervisor and was formerly Director of the Social Services Division in the Ashkelon Coast Regional Council in the Gaza Envelope. She spoke about her work in diagnosing and addressing community needs, particularly in areas under threat, and offered powerful insights into how Israeli society supports families and children living in trauma zones. Her presence added a meaningful social and human dimension to the weekend’s focus on resilience, identity, and faith.