Meet Our Team
​
Ayelet, Maaglim’s founder, is a proud parent of Yarin, her son, who was diagnosed with Autism at 2 years old. As a young mother, Ayelet took it upon herself to be Yarin's advocate by creating a safe and welcoming space for him in the world. She looked for ways to integrate him with different programs.
Ayelet is a passionate “force of nature” focused on the inclusion of the special needs community within the general public. This translates to all levels of their lives, including: social, educational, as well as helping those with special needs to lead a productive lives. Ayelet has been working alongside other organizations
Ayelet is involved with and participates in many local special needs programs. She was invited several times to be a Keynote Speaker at charity events such as at the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles and the Tzofim (Scouts).
Ayelet graduated from “Tadmor Hotelier School” in Israel
as well Accounting graduate from the College of Management Academic Studies ”Colman” in Israel & was a teacher in Chabad of Agoura for 9 years.
Above all, Ayelet is a determined and compassionate mother for her four loving and supportive children. As a parent who wants the best for all her children, she has become a champion for her son Yarin, educating others and opening up opportunities for those with special needs to have the best quality of life we should all have.
Co-Founder, CEO
Ayelet Zandberg Sason
Rachel Weizman
Co-Founder & COO
Rachel was profoundly inspired by Ayelet’s life story, which led her to co-found Maagalim. With a deep-seated passion for education and a background in business, Rachel is committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with special needs. Her enthusiasm for Maagalim’s mission fuels her pride in the creation and growth of the organization.
​
Rachel’s leadership journey began as a scout counselor in her teens. She then served as a lieutenant in the IDF, managing a program that empowered women to build careers and improve their lives. After her military service, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education from the Wingate Institute in Israel. Along with her husband, Moti, she raised two daughters and now manages the family software business.
For over a decade, Rachel has overseen a bridge club every Sunday and, during COVID, co-founded and managed a virtual bridge club with her husband.​
In her free time, Rachel enjoys a diverse range of activities including bridge, volleyball, hiking, biking, folk dancing, beach walks, clay sculpting, and traveling.
Mira Paz
Treasurer
Beyond her day job as an accountant, Mira’s real reward comes from volunteering
as the treasurer for Maagalim Community Circles. Mira joined Maagalim to
volunteer her accounting expertise, aiming to support their mission while
developing strong connections with the community.
With over 30 years of experience in financial accounting, Mira has worked with
diverse organizations, providing accurate and reliable financial information to
support making informed business decisions. Mira holds a BS degree in
Accounting from California State University Northridge.
Mira is a proud mom of three adult children and four grandchildren. When she
does not crunch numbers, she enjoys Pilates and hiking in nature.
Orit Cohen Gendelman
CFO
Orit has been a certified public accountant since 2009. She first met Ayelet in 2018 while seeking connections within special needs families. As a mother of a son with severe disabilities herself, she was deeply inspired by Ayelet's story and strong vision. A few years later, Orit was excited to reconnect and join Maagalim's finance team.
Orit holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from California State University Northridge. She manages her own accounting office and is a mother of three children. With over 15 years of experience in both profit and non-profit accounting, combined with her own personal continuing experience in advocating for our community through the available resources, programs and state and local agencies, she brings valuable expertise,and love to this very special community.
Ayelet Naor
Secretary
Ayelet Naor is the Secretary of Magalim Community Circles. A proud mother of three and grandmother of two, Ayelet brings both heart and dedication to her role. She first became involved with Magalim during its reformation and has supported its mission ever since. Deeply committed to Maagalim’s vision of empowering young adults with special needs, Ayelet plays an active role in helping the organization create meaningful opportunities, inclusive programs, and a supportive community. With her organizational skills, passion for service, and love for people, Ayelet helps ensure that Maagalim continues to thrive and make a lasting impact.
Nufar Kadosh Azulay
Volunteers Coordinator
Nufar Kadosh, manages Maagalim’s Teen Volunteer Program, which provides inclusive exposure and opportunities for young adults to learn, contribute and form lasting bonds.
Nufar received a B.A. in Communication from the University of Southern California and is a mother to three young boys. She joined the Maagalim team because of her deep commitment to the organization’s mission. An important goal she has is to help raise widespread awareness for Maagalim’s cause so that students will look to it for meaningful volunteer opportunities. She is also working to build strong relationships with middle and high school leaders who can direct students to explore Maagalim. Nufar feels fortunate to be apart of this important organization and is looking forward to continue her contributions in its subsequent growth.