A Special Feature Celebrating Her 50th Birthday
There are people whose presence immediately makes
the world feel warmer. They know how to listen, encourage, inspire, and
genuinely celebrate the success of others. That is exactly how I came to know
Larisa Gavrielov.
We met through Ladies' World magazine. We
are both members of the Esther-a-Malka Women's Organization and work together
on the magazine – I serve on the Editorial Board, while Larisa is our Manager.
For both of us, this is much more than volunteer work. It is a labor of love – a
place where friendships are formed, creativity flourishes, and life gains new
meaning. Through the magazine, I found not only an exceptional colleague but
also a true friend: intelligent, compassionate, energetic, generous, and always
positive.
As Larisa celebrates her 50th birthday, it is the
perfect time to reflect on the remarkable journey that has shaped her into the
respected executive, devoted mother and grandmother, community leader, and
inspiring woman she is today.
Larisa is widely admired throughout the Bukharian
Jewish community – not only as a successful financial executive but also as
someone who generously shares her knowledge and is always ready to help others.
– You
were born in the former Soviet Union, grew up in Israel, and later built a new
life in the United States. How has this journey shaped you?
– Two immigrations taught me resilience, gratitude,
and the ability to adapt. I grew up in Israel, where I earned two master's
degrees – Economics and Business Management – from Ben-Gurion University and completed
my military service in the Israel Defense Forces. After moving to the United
States, I earned a degree in Accounting from Queens College and began building
my career from the ground up. Starting over in a new country is never easy, but
every challenge made me stronger. Living in different cultures taught me to
value diversity, connect with people from all backgrounds, and stay open to new
experiences.
–What
inspired you to pursue a career in banking, and what continues to motivate you
after more than fifteen years in the industry?
– Banking allowed me to combine my passion for
finance with my love for helping people. While my education naturally led me
into finance, I soon realized that what truly inspires me is building
relationships and making a positive difference in people's lives. Every client
has unique goals and dreams. Helping individuals and businesses grow, solve
problems, and achieve success is incredibly rewarding.
– After
more than fifteen years with JPMorgan Chase, beginning as a banker in Queens
and now serving as an Executive Director in Manhattan, what qualities define a
true leader? Do you consider yourself one?
– Yes, leadership has always been part of who I am.
It begins at home, where I raised my two wonderful children, Eden and Rafael,
and now enjoy helping guide my grandchildren, Shiley,
Osher and Shir. My leadership is reflected in family, community,
and the workplace. Sometimes it means taking responsibility; sometimes it means
encouraging others or simply listening and helping someone believe in
themselves. Today I lead a large team at the bank while also mentoring young
professionals within our community. For me, leadership begins with honesty and
trust. Compassion, accountability, resilience, and the ability to listen are qualities
every good leader should possess. I strive to lead by example and help others
grow with confidence.
– How
did you become involved with Ladies'
World magazine and the Esther-ha-Malka Women's Organization?
– My connection with the magazine began with Dr.
Zoya Maksumova. We met years before I joined Ladies' World, when I
worked at Chase Bank in Queens managing the accounts of the Congress of
Bukharian Jews of the USA, including Ladies' World. I was deeply
impressed by Dr. Maksumova's professionalism, kindness, and dedication to the
community. I witnessed this especially after the tragic events of October 7, when
I helped her establish a GoFundMe campaign for Israel and assisted with
transferring the donated funds through Chase Bank. Later, when I learned the
magazine was looking for a manager, I immediately offered my help. Today I
manage both Ladies' World magazine and the Esther-ha-Malka Women's
Organization. For me, this work is more than an additional responsibility – it
is an opportunity to contribute to our community, meet inspiring people, and
help turn meaningful ideas into reality. It has also brought wonderful
friendships into my life.
– You
have devoted many years to supporting nonprofit and community organizations.
What does kindness mean to you personally?
– Kindness means being there for people without
expecting anything in return. Sometimes someone needs advice, professional
guidance, or simply a new opportunity. Other times, they just need someone who
will listen or offer encouragement. I believe kindness is one of the greatest
investments we can make. Every act of generosity creates a ripple effect, and
sooner or later, it finds its way back through the lives we touch.
– You
successfully balance an executive career, community service, and family life.
What helps you maintain that balance? What legacy would you like to leave?
– I don't think perfect balance exists. Instead, I
believe we must recognize who or what needs us most at any given moment. My
family has always been my greatest source of strength, while my career allows
me to continue learning and making a positive contribution to both my family
and my community. I hope to leave behind a legacy of resilience, compassion,
generosity, and integrity. I want my children and grandchildren to know that
education, faith, perseverance, and hard work can open almost any door – but
that success means little without kindness and humanity. True success is
measured not by titles or material achievements, but by the positive impact we have
on others. If people remember me as someone who inspired them, believed in
them, and helped them grow, that would be my greatest accomplishment.
– Do
you have any exciting professional plans? I know you're a very creative person.
– I certainly do, I’m always looking ahead, seeking new opportunities,
exciting projects, and I’m never afraid to try something new. But for now, I'll keep everyone a little curious
and share the news when the time is right. Stay tuned – there’s
much more to come!
Interview by Zoya Aminova
The Ladies’ World Magazine team proudly celebrates Larisa on the milestone of her 50th birthday!
Larisa is a truly
remarkable woman, and we are sincerely grateful that she has become part of the
large Ladies' World family. She generously shares with us her wisdom,
experience, kind heart, and warmth, enriching our magazine and our community in
countless ways.
May this special year
bring Larisa excellent health, love, inner peace, joy, God's abundant
blessings, and many happy moments surrounded by her family and loved ones.
May the years ahead be as bright, beautiful,
and inspiring as you are, dear Larisa!
Mazal Tov!
