Our mission is to cultivate a vibrant and supportive community where individuals are empowered to grow personally and collectively. By bringing together our community and hosting inspiring guest speakers on diverse topics, we strive to create a space for open conversation, meaningful connections, shared learning, and transformative experiences. Through our commitment to fostering personal growth and community bonds, we aim to uplift and enrich the lives of all involved and create a platform for volunteering.
We are thrilled to welcome you to Flora, a community passionately dedicated to personal and collective growth. At Flora, we strive to create a vibrant and supportive environment where you can connect with others, explore new ideas, and evolve in meaningful ways.
Each session features inspiring guest speakers from diverse fields, engaging you in open conversations and enriching experiences that spark reflection, deepen understanding, and foster authentic connection. Whether you’re looking to grow personally, professionally, or spiritually, Flora offers a space to be inspired, supported, and empowered.
Join us for thought-provoking evenings that nurture both heart and mind — and become part of a community that grows together.
August 9 – Flora Mixer
October 14
November 18
December 16
January 20
February 24
March 31
Embracing diverse perspectives and ideas to foster innovation and understanding.
Committing to continuous learning and self-improvement to reach our fullest potential.
Creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and valued.
Dedication to excellence, integrity, and making a positive impact in everything we do.
I draw inspiration from the resilience of nature, seeing in it a reflection of the inner light within each of us. Just as nature grows, adapts, and flourishes, I believe we can nurture our own spark—fostering creativity, purpose, and personal growth. I am passionate about creating spaces that support development in all aspects of life. Professionally, I am a Ph.D. student in Chemical and Biological Engineering, dedicated to advancing research and innovation. As an Israeli living abroad, I strive to contribute meaningfully to the communities I am part of, both in science and within the Jewish community.
I care deeply about community and lifelong learning, which is why I’m excited to contribute to Flora. In today’s complex world, I believe it’s important to get back to the basics, connect with each other, and work to make a positive impact. I recently graduated from UBC Engineering, where I developed a strong foundation in problem-solving and teamwork. In my free time, I enjoy staying active, spending time with friends, and playing guitar. I’m looking forward to learning new things and connecting with everyone at Flora!
I am a firm believer in the power of storytelling and its ability to build vibrant, lasting communities. With an MBA and a background in marketing and social media, I love blending strategic thinking with a creative spark to bring ideas to life. I currently focus on driving meaningful impact in the non-profit sector, creating digital spaces where people feel connected. Outside of work, I’m usually found exploring the latest fashion trends or hitting the mountain trails to recharge in nature. I’m so excited to bring my energy to Flora and grow together with this amazing community!
Rivka (Riki) Oirechman is a community builder and educational leader based in Vancouver, BC, with over two decades of experience in Jewish education and program development.
As Director of Operations and Management at the Ohel Yaakov Community Kollel, Riki leads a wide range of initiatives that bring people together through meaningful learning, connection, and shared experiences. She is passionate about creating environments where individuals can grow, connect, and feel a strong sense of belonging.
Throughout her career—including 15 years at Richmond Jewish Day School and leadership roles in Hebrew School and Tzivos Hashem Sunday School—Riki has developed innovative programs that inspire Jewish identity, leadership, and personal growth across all ages.
Riki is dedicated to building inclusive and engaging spaces for people of all ages to connect, learn, and be part of a vibrant and supportive community.
I’m someone who feels deeply connected to people and genuinely values understanding others’ experiences and perspectives. I’m driven by curiosity and a love for learning, whether through meaningful conversations, new experiences, or exploring different ways of thinking.
I have been a Registered Dietitian since 2019, supporting individuals in navigating their relationship with food and health in a way that feels realistic and compassionate.
Outside of work, I feel most energized when I’m active and outdoors, especially skiing, hiking, and playing beach volleyball. Joining Flora has been incredibly meaningful to me. It’s a community where I’ve built strong connections and friendships that I truly believe will last a lifetime.
Being part of a space where people can come together, learn from one another and from experts, and build something meaningful really matters to me. I’m excited to contribute in a genuine way.
I'm passionate about growth, kindness, and curiosity, always striving to learn and evolve in both my personal and professional life. With a career in Operations, I’m dedicated to creating an environment that supports productivity, fosters collaboration, and aligns with the culture and goals of my workplace. Outside of work, I channel my creativity through photography, capturing moments that tell stories and inspire others. My goal is to build communities—whether in the workplace or through my art—where people feel valued, seen, and empowered.
I'm passionate about growth, kindness, and curiosity, always striving to learn and evolve in both my personal and professional life. With a career in Operations, I’m dedicated to creating an environment that supports productivity, fosters collaboration, and aligns with the culture and goals of my workplace. Outside of work, I channel my creativity through photography, capturing moments that tell stories and inspire others. My goal is to build communities—whether in the workplace or through my art—where people feel valued, seen, and empowered.
I am a firm believer in the power of storytelling and its ability to build vibrant, lasting communities. With an MBA and a background in marketing and social media, I love blending strategic thinking with a creative spark to bring ideas to life. I currently focus on driving meaningful impact in the non-profit sector, creating digital spaces where people feel connected. Outside of work, I’m usually found exploring the latest fashion trends or hitting the mountain trails to recharge in nature. I’m so excited to bring my energy to Flora and grow together with this amazing community!
Individuals that are:
Please email us at florathecommunity@gmail.com.
We host one volunteering event during the program and it will be held during the first meeting. This event will require a few hours of volunteering. More details coming soon!
Mr. Daniel Friedmann is a distinguished business leader, engineer, author, and technology executive whose career spans aerospace, climate innovation, artificial intelligence, and scientific thought.
He is currently helping bring AI-powered robotics to market with Sanctuary AI and supporting ICEYE’s global expansion through its innovative satellite subscription model. Until 2023, Daniel served as CEO and Chairman of Carbon Engineering, where he led the company in advancing megaton-scale Direct Air Capture technology to help address climate change.
Previously, Daniel was CEO of MDA for 20 years, leading the company through significant growth and its successful public offering. He was recognized as a Brendan Wood TopGun CEO, an honour reflecting the highest confidence from investors and business leaders.
Daniel holds a master’s degree in Engineering Physics and is a professional engineer, speaker, consultant, and published author. His work exploring the relationship between science and the biblical account of creation has been featured in major media outlets and conferences. He is the author of several books, including An MBA from Heaven, The Biblical Clock, The Broken Gift, and The Genesis One Code.
Drawing on decades of leadership across business, innovation, and scientific discovery, Daniel challenges students to think boldly, develop a compelling vision, and pursue ideas that can shape the future.
Dr. Cecil Hershler is a physician, storyteller, actor, poet, and educator whose work explores the power of stories to deepen our understanding of identity, resilience, and human connection.
Originally from South Africa, Dr. Hershler brought to Canada a lifelong passion for storytelling as a way to preserve heritage and inspire meaningful reflection. His creative work spans film, theatre, poetry, and performance, blending medicine, culture, and the arts in unique and engaging ways.
His projects include The Healing Journey, a film aired on Vision TV, and a Yiddish poem featured on CBC’s Outfront. More recently, his artistic expression has expanded to include dance and narrative poetry, celebrating both his Jewish and South African roots.
Through his unique combination of science, creativity, and lived experience, Dr. Hershler encourages students to explore the role of character, empathy, and personal identity in becoming thoughtful and compassionate leaders.
Erez Avramov is a resilience expert, peak performance coach, and motivational speaker whose extraordinary life story has inspired audiences around the world.
A former elite commando and a three-time survivor of near-death experiences, Erez is known by many as “the man who refuses to die.” Drawing from these experiences, he became an expert in human behaviour, decision-making, and personal transformation.
Mr. Erez is the founder of the Victory Path 360 system, a framework that helps entrepreneurs, executives, and leaders develop resilient mindsets, overcome adversity, and turn challenges into opportunities for growth. He has coached individuals and organizations to perform at their highest level under pressure while creating lasting personal and professional impact.
Continuing to embody the principles he teaches, Erez is training to represent Canada as a para-archer in the 2028 Paralympic Games. He has also shared his message of resilience through his widely viewed TED Talk, inspiring audiences to embrace adversity as a path to strength.
Drawing on his remarkable journey and years of coaching experience, Erez challenges students to develop resilience, persevere through setbacks, and discover the strength to achieve what may seem impossible.
Mr. Gilad Babchuk is a social entrepreneur, strategic consultant, and educator with nearly three decades of international experience in leadership, innovation, and organizational development.
As the co-founder and CEO of Compass, Gilad helps organizations and individuals develop forward-thinking strategies in leadership, education, and business growth. Before founding Compass, he established Groundswell, an alternative business school in Vancouver dedicated to holistic education and empowering entrepreneurs.
Gilad began his career in Israel, where he served as CEO of the Institute for Democratic Education. In this role, he led transformative training programs for educators and school leaders while advising on long-term strategic planning at the national level. He was recognized as one of Israel’s 50 most influential educators for his contributions to educational innovation and leadership.
Today, Gilad advises international organizations on the future of work, progressive education, and strategic development, including consulting for multinational companies. He holds a master’s degree in Political and Civic Leadership from Tel Aviv University.
Drawing on his extensive experience in strategy, innovation, and mentorship, Gilad encourages students to think creatively, embrace change, and develop the vision needed to lead in an ever-evolving world.
Ms. Maria Pontikis Zwick is an accomplished communications executive and public affairs leader with extensive experience in government, strategic communications, and community engagement.
As Chief Communications Officer for the City of Vancouver, Maria leads the City’s communications and public engagement efforts as a member of the City Leadership Team. Prior to moving to Vancouver, she spent more than a decade at Queen’s Park in Toronto, serving under multiple premiers and ultimately as Director of Communications.
Throughout her career, Maria has led communications for numerous international trade and government missions, including delegations to India, Japan, Hong Kong, and Israel. Her expertise spans public policy, media relations, crisis communications, and stakeholder engagement at the highest levels of government.
Beyond her professional work, Maria is actively involved in Vancouver’s Jewish community. She serves on the Board of Temple Sholom and is a fellow of the 2024–2026 Wexner Heritage Program for Jewish volunteer leaders.
Drawing on her leadership in public communications and government, Maria inspires students to communicate with clarity, authenticity, and purpose—essential qualities for effective leadership in any field.
Ms. Karen Levitt is a senior public sector leader with more than 35 years of experience in municipal government, strategic planning, and organizational leadership.
As Deputy City Manager for the City of Vancouver, Karen helps lead one of Canada’s largest municipalities, overseeing complex initiatives that shape the city’s future. Throughout her career, she has held numerous senior leadership positions, including Director of Business Planning, Deputy City Treasurer, and Director of Olympic Games Strategic Planning, contributing to many of Vancouver’s most significant civic projects.
Karen also serves on the Board of E-Comm 911, helping oversee emergency communications services across British Columbia.
In addition to her professional leadership, Karen has been deeply involved in Vancouver’s Jewish community, serving on the boards of Ohel Yaakov Community Kollel, the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, King David High School, and Jewish Family Services. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia and an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business.
Drawing on decades of leadership in government, finance, and community service, Karen encourages students to exercise sound judgment, lead with integrity, and make thoughtful decisions that create lasting impact.