The club that turns individual paths into a shared story.

As a columnist, I have the privilege of narrating stories that reveal not only personal journeys but also the power of a community to shape lives. The story of Mônica Drabik Baran is a living example of how Hebraica became more than just a club: it became a thread that runs through generations.

The Story of Mônica Baran

Today, Mônica Baran is Hebraica’s Social and Cultural Manager and mother of Leonardo Drabik Baran M. Silva and Amanda Drabik Baran M. Silva. Throughout her career, she has led the production of major events such as the Alok concert, Inimigos da HP, Confraria Hebraica, and the Women Against Antisemitism gathering, among many others.

The only daughter of Joel Baran and Josepha Drabik Baran, Mônica grew up surrounded by strong influences. Her father was her hero, best friend, and partner. Her mother, a constant presence, remained by her side until her final breath.

Joel Baran was born in Germany and, at the age of 13, was placed alone on a train by Mônica’s grandparents to escape the war. Her grandparents stayed behind and were tragically murdered by the Nazis. Amid persecution, Joel had to learn to survive on his own.

He spent part of his youth in Paris, lived in Paraguay, and eventually found a new home in Brazil. Here, he built an admirable career: a respected physician who treated prominent figures of the time, while also dedicating himself to the arts as a painter and gallery director.

Joel became the first director of Hebraica’s Galeria Atualidades, a role he held for ten years. He was the one who named the space, leaving a legacy that endures to this day. At that time, Mônica was only 12 and active in the Lapid Hanoar youth movement. Ironically, she disliked accompanying her father to the club, finding it........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)