By Leya Aronoff, Marketing Manager at J Leaders & J Leaders Academy ‘22-’23 Fellow
Tell us about yourself.
Tell us about yourself.I’m Gita, a New York City transplant now calling Sunnyvale, CA home. Professionally, I work in analytics at Teladoc Health, a leading virtual healthcare company with over 5,000 employees. I was part of Cohort 4 of the J Leaders Academy (’23 – ’24). After completing the Academy, I was invited to join the Board of Directors for Jewish Silicon Valley (JSV), where I’m helping measure and amplify the organization’s impact.
What inspired you to apply to J Leaders?
I first heard about J Leaders from two coworkers at Teladoc, including one who had completed the program in the previous cohort. She was so inspired by J Leaders that she returned as a volunteer to help develop programming for my cohort and she encouraged me to apply. Seeing her passion and commitment was all the endorsement I needed to apply.
With so many options, why did you choose J Leaders?
I didn’t even explore other programs. My coworker’s enthusiasm and decision to return as a volunteer spoke volumes. Her experience with J Leaders made it clear this was the right opportunity for me.
What was the most impactful part of your J Leaders experience?
Discovering the vibrant young adult Jewish community in the Bay Area. As a recent transplant, I had been feeling alone, but the warmth and openness of this group changed everything. I found a sense of belonging and lifelong friendships. After completing the Academy, being invited to join the Jewish Silicon Valley board has made it feel like I’m truly putting down roots.
How has the program influenced your professional and Jewish life?
The in-depth values exploration during our retreats gave me a fresh perspective on decision-making at work, helping me align choices with what truly matters. And joining the Jewish Silicon Valley board has allowed me to give back by using my analytical skills to quantify and strengthen the organization’s impact. It’s a meaningful way to support Jewish life in the Bay Area.
What’s an unexpected benefit or achievement from your J Leaders experience?
Discovering a love of service I didn’t know I had! I never saw myself stepping into a leadership role so soon, but the program gave me the confidence and network to do it. Serving on the JSV board has been a meaningful way to give back, deepen my connection to the community, and play an active role in shaping its future.
What advice would you give to Jewish young adults considering J Leaders?
If you’re even slightly considering J Leaders, apply! The program challenges you in the best ways, helps you grow as a leader, and connects you with an incredible community. You’ll gain insights about yourself, build lasting friendships, and open doors to opportunities you never expected. It’s an investment in yourself and your future.