As a New York-based writer for Valour Life, I look forward to events taking place in the city. This winter, I had the honor of attending Valour’s exclusive photo-shoot dinner party, a breathtaking event that was dripping in glamour and bursting with inspiration. It is hard to wrap up a night such as this into words; the space was lush, the conversation harmonious, and the food delectable. The dinner was not merely about sharing a meal with successful women, but about learning from one another and sharing our own stories. It was more than a night to make social connections; it was a night for soul connections, leaving me eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to connect with this community.
Sen Sakana, a Japanese-Peruvian restaurant located in the heart of New York City, is full of tasteful design and food. The night began with hospitality that was warm and welcoming and ended with drinks, laughter, and bags of food we simply had to take home after a multi-course parade of flavorful dishes. My favorites of the night were the charred edamame with Peruvian corn, torched salmon ceviche, beef dumplings, and the bubble sen drink. It was truly a soulful experience to dine in a space that recognizes that a restaurant is more than a meal.
One woman who really stood out to me during this dinner was Rivkah Krinsky. I recognized her immediately, having met her a couple of years back at a Shabbaton in Crown Heights. Rivkah floated through the room with grace, elegance, and a calming energy. Soon after we met, I realized that she had one of those special personalities that really allowed her to see someone deeply. Rivkah moved from Australia to New York, and although she has many talents and wears many hats, she currently works as a matchmaker. “My mission is to continue the Jewish legacy and to help bring clarity to people,” she shared. She spoke about the tough transition in moving and learning to adjust to a community less diverse than her previous home but emphasized her need to stick to positivity.
During our conversation, she shared something that really struck me. She explained that the first thing she does when a lady who is not religious approaches her is to encourage her to light Shabbos candles. “Do something spiritual,” she tells them. “Isn’t it a very spiritual experience to find your soulmate?”
Needless to say, the night was magical. Everyone was glowing, sharing stories, clinking glasses, and drinking in inspiration. The Valour community, celebrating the Jewish woman, is one I am blessed to be a part of, and this night definitely reflected their mission and the necessity for having such a sacred space.
