Young Leaders Speak Out
This year, The Associated celebrated six leaders who have made an impact on Baltimore’s Jewish community. We spent time with them to find out what it takes to be a leader and where they go from here.
Here is what some of them had to say.
What makes a good leader?
Micah Damareck: I believe there are so many different ways to define a good leader, and we all bring different qualities to the various teams we serve. In my opinion, a few common traits include resolve, curiosity, vision (and the ability to clearly share that vision), strategic thinking, great communication and humility. The list could go on and on!
Eugene Poverni: I think I lead by example. Nothing I’d ask anyone on my team to do that I am not willing to do myself, and in situations of uncertainty, I am ready to stick my head out on the chopping block and make a decision. If needed, I’ll sweep the floors or pick up the trash at our buildings. Possessing the mentality of ‘do what needs to be done’ is what makes a good leader.
What is your wish for the Baltimore Jewish community five years from now? And, what role do you see for yourself at that time?
Chavi Abramson: Five years from now, I would love to see a more active and cohesive Jewish community among the diverse Jewish population, and not just in times of crisis (when we’re very good at coming together!). hope to encourage more members of the Orthodox community to become involved in The Associated and to appreciate the extensive involvement that The Associated has in many aspects of our lives.
Katie Fink: I recently traveled to Lisbon, Portugal, where I met with leadership at Synagogue Ohel Jacob, a small shul dating back to the end of World War I. The volunteer leadership there emphasized the importance of Jewish oneness and unity regardless of identity or background. I hope to see a Baltimore Jewish community that similarly focuses on oneness and unity.
I hope to continue to be an advocate for the Baltimore Jewish community as well as global Jewish responsibility.
How do you try and motivate those around you?
Chavi Abramson: I try and motivate those around me through my actions. Excitement breeds excitement. I want people to see my passion for giving back to the Jewish community and to be inspired to do the same in their own way.
Micah Damareck: I believe that people have to be able to motivate themselves and as leaders, we should motivate by example. As a leader who is always learning, I try to motivate by exhibiting humility, letting people make their own decisions (even if I don’t agree), offering coaching and the opportunity to discuss what’s important to them (which isn’t always what’s important to me or the company), and really, I work hard to be present and have fun.
Who is your role model?
Katie Fink: I have many different role models in my life; several include my close family members, who model strong values and character in the face of a challenge. Others include my business partners who show critical thinking and empathy, even under pressure. I also look up to female business leaders in the commercial real estate industry. These women are pioneers in my field and have paved the way to make my career possible.
Eugene Poverni: A key mentor of mine is a former client (from my legal practice days) in Brazil. He has been instrumental in each facet of my professional growth and has helped me at key junctures in my life by providing important feedback.
Learn about our leadership programs at associated.org/getinvolved/lead.
The Associated’s 2022 Award Winners
Chavi Abramson
Fred Walpert Award
Eugene Poverni
Fred Walpert Award
Katie Fink
Zelda Miller Award
Micah Damareck
Harry Greenstein Award
Richard Topaz
Julius Rosenberg Award
Kenneth D. Hornstein
Carole Sibel Award
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