JQT is 100% volunteer run. Without these folx, we would not be able to do the work of ‘Queering’ Jewish space and ‘Jew-ifying’ queer space! Interested in getting involved? Email us!
JQT Board
SOPHIE (she/her)
Board Chair
Originally from Ontario, Sophie moved to Vancouver in 2017 for graduate study in mathematics at UBC, completing her PhD in 2023. She currently teaches mathematics, academic literacy, and history of science at UBC and one of its affiliate colleges. In the Vancouver Jewish community, she is regularly involved in minyan leadership and Torah teaching, and enjoys learning various Jewish dance traditions. She is also a researcher and writer for the Trans Halakha Project at SVARA Yeshiva. What Sophie values most about her work with JQT is the opportunity it provides to sit with people in our community, listen to their concerns, and engage in the difficult conversations by which we hold space for the diversity of queer Jewish experience.
CAHLIE (any pronouns)
Board Vice-Chair
Cal is a non-binary Patrilineal Jew with a diverse professional background spanning operations, accessibility, and the arts. With experience in optimizing processes, supporting accessibility initiatives, and working in creative industries, Cal combines their skills in problem-solving and advocacy to make a meaningful impact. They are dedicated to fostering inclusion, particularly for Patrilineal Jews, and are honored to contribute their perspective to JQT.
SYLVIA (she/her)
Board Treasurer
Sylvia is an aspiring accountant from Vancouver, BC. She is part of the davvening leadership at Or Shalom and enjoys engaging with her Jewish heritage through scholarly learning, dance and music. She wants to support JQT in its role at the intersection of the queer and Jewish communities of Vancouver.
SHELLEY (she/her)
Board Secretary
Shelley joined the board during the organization’s final year, committed to helping steward a thoughtful and respectful close. A Vancouver lawyer with over 30 years of experience, she brings perspective, steadiness, and a deep respect for community life. Shelley values the role this organization has played in fostering Jewish queer connection and is honored to support its concluding chapter with care.
JQT Staff
CARMEL TANAKA (she/her)
JQT Founder & Executive Director
Carmel Tanaka is a queer neurodivergent Jewpanese woman of colour from Vancouver on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh peoples. She is a community engagement professional and her leadership initiatives include: JQT Vancouver, Cross Cultural Walking Tours, and the Jewpanese Project. She was named one of Be'chol Lashon's 7 LGBTQ+ Jews of Color you should know. Learn more at: www.carmeltanaka.ca