Keshet intern, Nuriel Gutman, recently sat down for an interview with Lenny Goldstein—avid cyclist, ambivalent spreadsheet expert, and, most notably, Keshet’s Chief Financial Officer since 2017. 

What inspired you to work at Keshet? 

Unfortunately, Keshet didn’t exist when I was young. I came of age as a gay man at a time when being out meant facing the dangers of getting physically attacked and blatant discrimination both in the workplace and in marriage. Keshet provides so many necessary supports for youth in the LGBTQ+ community that I didn’t have. I feel deeply aligned with Keshet’s goals and culture, and it really speaks to all the identities I hold dear. 

What are you most proud of here? 

My job is to ensure the organization is secure and growing. So I’m most proud of the work I do to help Keshet make investments in service of the organization’s future, which ultimately allows us to sustain the work. 

When I interviewed at Keshet, I mentioned that I didn’t really like spreadsheets. But I knew that I was good at them and I do this kind of work here because I believe in the mission. I like that there’s a lot of variety in my job. Now, sometimes I even enjoy the days when I get to put my nose to the grindstone and just work on spreadsheets!

What brings you joy? 

I love theater, getting into the Shabbat spirit by baking challah, cycling to work, and doing Peloton rides with my coworkers as Team #Kesheton! For me, cycling is pure joy. 

My work also brings me joy. A couple of years ago, I spoke at a Pride Shabbat. A trans girl and her parents came up to me, so grateful for my words and presence. Seeing somebody who has a few decades on them, who is happy and healthy and gay and Jewish meant a lot to their own sense of security. I love to play that role.

What advice do you have for LGBTQ+ Jewish kids?

Come to a Shabbaton! I wished I had access to the welcoming and joyous Shabbatonim. I would also say, be as out or not as feels right for you. You don’t have to make decisions based on fear though. You can find community, there are people out there. Seek them out!

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Keshet intern, Nuriel Kaleb Gutman, is a rising junior at Boston Latin Academy.