Rabbi Matan Mordechai Weisberg
Director Heritage House and programs
Raised in South Africa and Israel, Matan is fluent in Hebrew and English. After graduating high school, Matan joined the IDF’s MLRS unit for 3 years. During those years his interest in understanding Judaism was sparked. This led to many years of serious religious and secular Jewish education. Matan’s passion for enabling young Jews to be exposed to their rich heritage propelled him to undertake continuing Rabbi Meir Schuster’s Heritage House from 2011. If you want to get on his good side, ask him an extremely tough Judaism question which will make him have to think for a couple days.
Chaya Weisberg, Co
Director Heritage House and programs
Chaya, originating from the east and west coast of the US, has been with the Heritage House since 2004. She brings people wisdom with a MSc in Sociology from U. of N. Texas, and an infectious love for each individual. Chaya and her family enjoy sharing their balcony view of the Western Wall with Birthright and Heritage House students, especially if they sing a Jerusalem song. When you come to visit, prepare a song and ask for some hearty soup, and be welcomed into the family!
Chassia Thau
WMI program director
Chassia grew up in Israel. After studying Education and Business she spent some time working in the non-profit sector as well as teaching. Chassia is currently the director of Way More Israel, and loves every part of it! Developing the program, meeting the participants, and sharing what Israel has to offer are just some of the perks. She lives in Jerusalem with her husband and four children.
Esther Wolkenstein
Heritage House Programs and Hostel coordinator
Esther Wolkenstein was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. After completing her degree in International Business and Psychology, Esther worked for both Businesses and Organizations in helping them achieve their vision. What makes Esther happy is seeing WMI participants achieve their goals during their time in Israel! With much excitement, Esther and her family moved to Israel in the summer of 2019, fulfilling a life-long dream.
Yaffa Swartz
Personal Assistant
Originally from South Africa, Yaffa formed a connection with Israel when she attended a seminary in Jerusalem for a year after finishing high school. Back in South Africa, she taught, ran a youth group and earned a BA in Psychology and Communication Science. In 2020, Yaffa and her husband moved to Israel as soon as corona restrictions allowed it! She loves being part of the WMI team and helping others connect with Judaism. She lives in Jerusalem with her husband and baby daughter.
