Hermandad KSI has a new Board of Directors

Last Sunday, August 22, 2021, the KSI Sisterhood gathered for an afternoon tea at the KSI Community Center to hold the swearing in of the 5782nd Board of Directors (2021-2022).

For this period, Sandra Mordok will serve as president of the organization.

Below is Sandra’s introductory speech:

Dear members,

I am very pleased to see you all gathered here, most of you know who I am, for those of you who don’t know me yet I would like to start by telling you a little about myself and my background. 

My name is Sandra Viviana Patiño de Mordok, Colombian by birth. I arrived in Panama about 22 years ago, along with my husband Solly, Zijronó Lebrajá, and my son Dani.  

We started to be part of the community life since we attended the prayers at Kol Shearith Israel’s headquarters on Cuba Avenue. 

Later we had our beloved children Nathanel and Linda. 

From day one we felt at home when we were welcomed into such a welcoming community, always with the hospitality of Rabbi Gustavo and Ruthy, which could never be missed.

Since then, I have been an active member of the community for 16 years, always involved in activities, collections, donations, social aid, initiatives, etc. 

Many will know me for my catering services that I have offered at various events or my famous falafel at the Yom Haatzmaut party. 

I dare to describe myself as a detail-oriented, humble, hard-working person, always ready to lend a hand in any way I can, and above all, “forward-thinking”. 

Qualities that I intend to use to my advantage to make the most of myself in front of such a select group.

It is an honor for me and fills me with pride to be able to stand today representing you noble ladies of the Sisterhood.

I thank you for taking me into account in such an important position as president and I hope that we can enjoy the work and achievements that we will obtain together during this period. 

Rest assured that I will not let you down. 

It is a commitment of which I trust I will have the support of all of you and above all mine. 

We know it has been a difficult year for the community. 

Losses of loved ones and members, pandemic, many restrictions, cessation of activities, but I promise you that we will go ahead and work to regain the luster of the brotherhood, adapting to the famous “new normal” as much as we can. 

First of all, I would like to thank and ask for a round of applause to Tania Levy, outgoing president, for her hard work in recent years, keeping this prestigious group afloat in one of the most difficult circumstances in the world. 

On behalf of my friend and all the compañeras we say: Thank you for all the works and projects you have done. 

Before I say goodbye, I would like to take the opportunity to introduce the new board of directors: 

Vice President: Carolina

Secretary: Gilka

Under-Secretary: Stephanie

Treasurer: Desiree

Assistant Treasurer: Angela

Vocal: Dalia, Carmen, Gay and Patricia

Each one of them is extremely capable in the tasks they have been entrusted with and eager to contribute that little grain of sand that distinguishes them. 

With nothing more to add, I say goodbye happy, grateful and with faith that we will achieve wonderful things together. 

A hug for all of you.