An enthusiastic and supportive crowd of more than 450 young Jewish professionals gathered at The Fonda Theatre where they got inspired, had fun, and gave back at MainStage 2015 on Tuesday, December 1st. Game-changing industry leaders shared how they have followed their passions through to fruition and professional success—and how they are inspiring change.
With MainStage 2015 lighting up the Fonda’s marquee, VIP guests arrived for an exclusive pre-party. Tasting spirits from Avión Tequila, they mingled with some of the evening’s phenomenal guest speakers, including our emcee, hilarious stand-up comedian and host of the hit game show Idiotest, Ben Gleib.
At the main event, innovators and talent included:
- Sean Rad – Tinder CEO & Founder
- Susanne Daniels – YouTube Head of Original Content
- Mitch Hurwitz – Arrested Development
- Ben Silverman – Executive Producer of The Office and founder and Chairman of Electus
- Ben Winston – Executive Producer of The Late Late Show with James Corden
- Emily Greener – Co-Founder & CEO of I Am That Girl
- Benny & Rafi Fine – Founders of Fine Brothers Entertainment
- John Altschuler and Dave Krinsky – Co-Creators of Silicon Valley
- David Caspe – Creator of Happy Endings
- Ben Maddahi – President, UNRESTRICTED Management and UNRESTRICTED Music Publishing
Each of these speakers brought amazing insight about their personal and professional journeys and shared how they are creating meaningful change in our world.
MexiKosher Chef Katsuji Tanabe (a former Top Chef contestant) provided exquisitely presented hors d’oeuvres and culinary stations that were the perfect complement to the evening.
Not coincidentally, the event took place on #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving. A portion of each ticket purchased went toward supporting our Federation’s forward-thinking work. A silent auction for prizes such as luxury hotel stays, delicious wine-and-dine experiences, high-end beauty products and jewelry raised additional funds during the event.
Ticket holders reveled late into the evening with cocktails and candy while overlooking the lights of Hollywood and connecting with their peers. More than just a fun night out, the event highlighted our Federation’s direction of innovation as we work together with the next generation to ensure a vibrant Jewish future and make our world a better place.
Thanks to Co-Chairs Marlyse Phlaum and Shahrad Nahai, Vice Chairs Deena Eberly Fleiner, Carly Einfeld, and Stephen Rischall, our committee, sponsors and everyone who showed up to make MainStage 2015 such a success!
Please visit our MainStage 2015 Facebook page for photos and more information or contact MainStage@JewishLA.org.