This year, women have a special reason to be proud: the new president of the Bukharian Jewish Congress of the USA and Canada is a young, charismatic, intelligent woman and mother of five – Chagit Sofiev-Leviev. Her appointment is clear evidence that women’s wisdom and inner strength can inspire and bring real change to the community's life. The new president aims not just to continue the work of her predecessors but to infuse the Congress with energy, humanity, and a modern approach.
Family as a Source of Values
Chagit is the
daughter of two highly respected figures: Lev Leviev, president of the World
Congress of Bukharian Jews, and the first lady, Olga Levieva. By the age of 38,
Chagit has achieved significant success in both business and public life. She
confidently stands among the most prominent leaders of the Jewish community:
she leads major international companies, directs Jewish educational
institutions, is active in global charitable projects, and represents the
interests of her people on the world stage. She is also a devoted wife and
loving mother of five wonderful children.
But behind public
achievements lies something deeper – the strong family values that Chagit
proudly carries through her life. Her parents have always been a powerful
example of helping others and giving back. Her mother, Olga, is a true role
model: she raised nine children while also devoting herself to the community.
She is always the first to help those who are sick or in need – cooking, and assisting.
Under her leadership, the Congress‘ Shidduchim office in Israel has already
facilitated thousands of weddings, helping to build countless Jewish homes
through meaningful matchmaking. Her devotion shows not only in material support
but also in the time, attention, and care she gives.
«My father is the greatest visionary I know», says
Chagit. «He’s a true leader who has the power to unite and inspire people to
get involved with helping the community. He has quietly built and supported
countless charitable projects, and from him I learned that true success isn’t
measured by how much money you earn, but by the impact you make on the world».
Chagit speaks six
languages, allowing her to connect with people across cultures. Thirteen years
ago, she moved from Israel to New York to take a more active role in the family
business and has since become deeply involved in both – business and public
service.
The
Path to Success: Business and Personal Fulfillment
–
Chagit, your family is a symbol of success and influence in the Jewish world.
What did growing up in that atmosphere mean to you personally, and how did it
shape your professional path?
– Growing up in a
business-dominated household, I developed a strong interest in finance, which
led me to study Economics and Business Administration at Bar Ilan University.
After graduating, I worked in the Economic Department at Deloitte in Israel,
which was an invaluable experience for developing my skills. I then joined the
family business and worked my way up. Over the years, I became the Chief
Financial Officer of our Holdings Company and was later asked to move to New
York with my husband, Gavriel, and our two young daughters to expand the
business.
As my role
continued to grow, I became CEO of Leviev Group USA and was also appointed as
CEO of Africa Israel USA, a diversified real-estate development firm. This
experience formed the basis for much of what I do today.
Photo by Nir Arieli
–
Despite your demanding business schedule, you dedicate significant time to
community work. What drives this from within – upbringing, personal beliefs, or
experience?
– I’ve been fortunate to
have great role models in my life, especially my parents, who always
prioritized serving the community. I truly believe that Hashem has placed me in
a position where I’m able to make a difference, and because of that, I feel a
strong responsibility to give back. Supporting Jewish women in business is
especially important to me, as I understand how challenging and isolating that
journey can be. I’m proud to be involved with various organizations in that
field, like Ezras Nashim, which provides women-to-women emergency medical care,
and The Jewish Women Entrepreneur, which supports Jewish women in business.
– You
head two Jewish educational institutions in New York. Why does Jewish education
hold such a special place in your heart?
– Leading as the president
of The Jewish Institute Of Queens and Ganeinu School, brings me deep
fulfillment. I see how effective leadership can shape the future of our
children. Jewish education is essential for preserving our Jewish identity in
the diaspora, where assimilation is a real threat. We must ensure our children
receive a Jewish education and carry our values and culture forward. There is
still a lot of work to do in this area, and this keeps being my priority.
A
Calling in Leadership
– You
were recently elected president of the Bukharian Jewish Congress of the USA and
Canada. How did you respond to this offer, and what emotions accompanied the
decision to accept this mission?
– When Mr. Boris Kandov,
the previous president, began looking for a successor, he approached me,
believing I could be a good fit in continuing the organization’s mission. I was
honored but unsure, as my schedule is already very demanding. At first, I
didn’t feel ready to accept. But I’ve learned that when Hashem places you on a
path where you can do good, it’s important not to shy away, even when it's
challenging. It truly is a great honor to lead such an important organization.
– As
the first woman to lead the Bukharian Jewish Congress, how do you view the role
of women in leadership within the Jewish community, and what do you hope your
leadership will inspire?
– Being the first
woman in this position is both exciting and a great responsibility. I am a big
believer in the power of women, especially their ability to multitask, solve
complex problems, and still pay attention to detail.
I once heard a
saying that stuck with me: “If you want something done, ask the busiest woman”.
Women are often the best at managing many tasks, because they know how to
prioritize and use time wisely. This mindset has helped me balance family,
business, and community work.
I feel determined
to carry on the work started by Mr. Kandov and the Congress, and proud to be
part of an era of change and progress in our community. Some still see our
community as too traditional or even outdated, but I’m convinced that women’s
leadership can shift those perceptions and become a driver of positive
transformation.
The community’s
response to my appointment was overwhelmingly warm, and I am excited to work
with the community to ensure the Bukharian Jewish Congress remains a strong,
active, and respected voice for our people. I’ve always felt confident as a
woman, and I believe this confidence is key to leading an organization
successfully.
– In
addition to your work with the Congress, you’re increasingly involved in
international public service. Can you tell us about new projects and
responsibilities you’ve recently taken on?
As many know, I’m
running with the ZOA #15 for a seat at the World Zionist Congress – one of the
most important platforms where key decisions for the Jewish world are made.
Through my participation, I aim to represent both the Bukharian community and
the Jewish people, making our voices heard on a global stage and defending our
interests at the highest levels.
I’m also happy to share
that I was recently appointed as a board member of the Jewish Agency Board of
Governors. The Jewish Agency’s work is crucial for securing the future of the
global Jewish community. These are the kinds of organizations with the greatest
impact on the Jewish world and where I will try to help my community thrive.
Small
Deeds, Great Impact
– How
do you view the role of women in business and public life within our community?
– As a woman in business
and leadership, I feel I’ve been given a great opportunity – one I must live up
to. I want other women to have the same opportunities. My goal is to inspire
women to take on leadership roles and pursue their dreams boldly – in business,
in the community, and beyond. There’s immense potential within the ladies of
our community.
At the same time, I
believe that family should always remain the top priority for every woman. I
sincerely hope every woman places her family at the center of her life, as
building a strong Jewish home is the foundation of the future of Am Israel.
In this context, I
plan to continue developing initiatives for matchmaking within our community,
organizing events for singles, and hosting Shabbatons to strengthen
relationships.
– You
often speak about the importance of small acts of kindness. In your view, where
does the true power of women's influence in community life lie?
– I believe a woman is
ikar habayit – the heart and anchor of the home. But her role doesn’t end
there. Women are the ones quietly holding everything together: raising
children, supporting their families, managing responsibilities, building
community – often all at once, and often without recognition.
Their strength lies
not just in what they do, but in how they carry it: with grace, with
resilience, and with heart. And yet, they rarely get the credit they deserve.
We need to start recognizing that the emotional, mental, and spiritual labor
women give every day is not only essential – it’s what keeps families and
communities functioning.
When we honor and empower that kind of leadership, we don’t just uplift women – we elevate all of society.
– Thank you, Chagid, for sharing this thoughtful reflection. It is precisely for this reason that our woman organization “Esther aMalka” together with “Ladies‘ World” magazine, regularly since 2002 hosts celebratory events such as “Woman of the Year” and “Salute to Outstanding Mother”. Through these occasions, we pay tribute to the remarkable women of our community – mothers, leaders, and accomplished professionals. Your legendary mother, Olga, holds a special place in our hearts as the very first woman ever honored at these events. Thank you for your time and very interesting conversation. Also, taking the opportunity of this special Mother’s Day edition, I warmly congratulate you – a truly Outstanding Mother – on this wonderful occasion. Wishing you all the very best in your exciting new journey ahead.
Interview conducted by Dr. Z.Maksumova
Cover photo by Nir Arieli
