Ethiopian-Israeli-American Experience: Conversation with Mother and Son Michal & Liad Samuel

In this episode, Sarah Bunin Benor interviews Ethiopian Jewish mother and son, Tawkalich Michal Avera Samuel and Telahun Liad Samuel, who share stories about their family’s migration, cultural traditions, and the Amharic words that connect their generations. Their conversation highlights how heritage words for foods, holidays, and rituals preserve identity and keep the community’s rich history alive across generations.

A seasoned leader with 20 years of experience pioneering and leading cross-cultural community-building and educational efforts, Ms. Avera Samuel was born in Gondar, Ethiopia. Prior to joining S C P, she was Senior in a community Shlicha in Ohio. In Israel, Michal served as the CEO of FIDEL Association, advocating for the successful integration of Ethiopian Israelis and serving on the prestigious national Round Table Panel on Social Issues, and research assistant for the Israel Democracy Institute. She sits on numerous boards and volunteers with organizations. Served as spokesperson and advisor to the Scholarship Fund for Ethiopian Jews. She is part of leadership fellowship as Jewish Women’s Foundation of NY Illuminate – The Collective, The Jewish Women of Color Resilience Circle, National Council of Jewish Women – Feminist Leaders Fellowship “Connection for Impact” and Training in Educational and social activist leadership. Visit Website

Telahun Liad Samuel is a 19-year-old Israeli Ethiopian Jew who moved to the United States at the age of 15. He is currently in college at Ohio State University at Newark, majoring in computer science and engineering.

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