Leeds & Yorkshire

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Rabbi Ariel & Sonia Pariente

“Only those who attempt the absurd…will achieve the impossible” ― M.C. Escher

Rabbi Ariel & Sonia Pariente

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07553 625 916

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07553 626 002

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Ariel and Sonia join us from Jerusalem. Ariel is Israeli, with a special connection to Leeds as his mother and grandparents grew up and lives there. Sonia, originally from Russia, made Aliyah to Israel in 2015. They got married that same year.

Ariel spent several years studying at Yeshivat Karney Shomron and served as a Shaliach (emissary) in Munich. He attended film school, directed two short films, and currently works as a creative director.

Sonia holds a master’s degree in Linguistics. In Israel, she studied at Midreshet Machon Ora and has been working at the Government Press Office (GPO). Recently, she also studied to be a Dance teacher.

They have three children: Daria, 8, who enjoys writing songs and spreading Ahavat Chinam (love of each other); Gavriel, 6, who dreams of meeting Mbappe and building the Beit HaMikdash (temple in Jerusalem); and Shalhevet, 3, who loves unicorns and going to synagogue.

In their personal time, Sonia enjoys baking, while Ariel loves playing board games.

Regional Amenities

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Where are you from?

Jerusalem, Israel

Ariel was born in Israel and Sonia made Aliyah 10 years ago from Russia.

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Why chaplaincy?

We have a passion for working in a vibrant student environment which is full of events and diverse experience. We are looking forward to having a positive impact on the everyday lives of the students that can be quite challenging at times!

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How can you help students?

We are ready to be there, whenever the students need support with their endeavours or just want to chat or to have a cup of coffee or a beer 🙂

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What do you enjoy doing most with students?

Chatting, laughing, learning, BBQing.

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What do you want students to take away from their Jewish experience at uni?

The understanding that their Jewish identity gives them a powerful instrument for their future life.

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What prepared you for this role?

Our experience in higher education and living abroad. Ariel was a Shaliach in the past, and Sonia studied at 3 different universities around Europe! But the best preparation was living as a family in Israel, and we are bringing those vibes with us.

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