As the Associate Director at the Florence Belsky Charitable Foundation, I'm deeply committed to our mission of "Connecting People, Sharing Ideas, Empowering Each Generation to Teach the Others." I'm proud to be a part of our expansive global network, which boasts over 1,500 advisors from diverse professional arenas. Our foundation offers a plethora of programs, including the Flobel Distance Learning Webinar Series, which was initiated during the pandemic's onset to offer webinars on meditation, filmmaking, and career development. We also host Women Who Lunch 2.0, a networking event designed by women for women, and First Mondays, a networking initiative welcoming individuals from all industries. Our unique Pick 3 Program allows advisors to select three peers they'd like to connect with, and we facilitate these valuable interactions.The foundation's legacy, rooted in the beliefs of our founder, Florence Belsky, emphasizes the transformative power of networking and mentoring. In my role, I've had the privilege of producing the Flobel Academy, a comprehensive video learning library. Some of our notable web-series include "SAGE ADVICE & WISDOM," where I've produced, directed, and edited interviews with esteemed guests like NORMAN LEAR, JOE BERLINGER, and BOBBY FRIEDMAN. Another highlight is "A GREEN NEW FUTURE," which I've also produced, directed, and edited, featuring conversations with luminaries such as GINA BELAFONTE, DR. MICHAEL MANN, and TIOKASIN GHOSTHORSE. I'm passionate about continuing to amplify voices, share knowledge, and foster connections in the spirit of our foundation's vision.

In my role at the Inheritance Project, I champion innovative leadership development, inclusion, and community-building, all viewed through the unique lens of inheritance*.*Inheritance (noun): The rich tapestry of ancestry, culture, beliefs, values, stories, social conditions, traits, and perspectives we receive from past generations.Inheritance, for me, goes beyond tangible heirlooms. It's the beliefs and traditions, the cultural nuances, and the shared histories that mold us. I've realized that inheritance isn't just about what we inherit; it's a bridge that connects us and, at times, the root of misunderstandings in our workplaces and broader society. I'm passionate about equipping leaders with the tools to navigate diverse teams, find common ground, and turn conflicts into avenues for collaboration. Our methodology emphasizes experiential learning and the power of genuine human connection.My personal journey as a Jew-Yo-Rican artist, Rebecca Berkman-Rivera, has been a dance with identity. Facing pressures to conform, I embarked on a path of self-discovery, leading me to "Rivka," embodying unity and completeness. I'm driven to share narratives that transcend boundaries, celebrate our shared and diverse heritages, and encourage everyone to embrace and honor their unique stories.

TO PROTECT, SERVE & UNDERSTAND (TPSU)TPSU is a program that uses improvisation and actor training techniques to build communication and empathy between officers and the civilians they are charged to protect and serve. TPSU creates a theatrical space that allows participants to think more critically about the criminal justice system. It deeply impacts not only NYPD officers by giving them a space to creatively and critically consider their role and relationship to the community, but our program also gives much-needed space for civilians in the community to voice their own experiences and feelings about the NYPD. Rivka has been a founding member and facilitator for this program since 2016.

"THE MOURNERS"Synopsis:In the aftermath of their daughter's devastating suicide, Ildefonso Muñoz, a communist philosopher, and Carmen, his resilient partner, grapple with their distance from their cherished granddaughter Delfina and her father, Leo. Ildefonso's anguish is intensified by his conviction that Leo's capitalist inclinations contributed to their mutual heartbreak. However, as the formidable Hurricane Maria looms, fate compels them to seek refuge together. Amidst the tempest's turmoil, will they bridge the divide of sorrow and ideology, or will they be swallowed by a whirlwind of unresolved emotions?Awards & Grants:2023: Selected Grantee at Carnegie Mellon - CoLlabo Incubator2023: Finalist at Terrence McNally New Works IncubatorSemi-Finalist with the Royal Court Theater - Literary TeamSemi-Finalist for the Princess Grace AwardProduction History:2022 Workshop @ Irondale Ensemble Theater, Brooklyn, New YorkCast: Nancy Ticotin, Gilbert Cruz, Ana SophÍa Colón, Steve Humphreys, Jorge Sánchez DíazDirected by: Francisco J. Rivera RodríguezProduced by: Jew-Yo-Rican Productions & Lana RussellPresented by: The Space at IrondaleStage Manager: TaTyana Smith2021 Reading - CITYCORP NYFA GRANT @ Irondale Ensemble Theater, Brooklyn, New YorkCast: Nancy Rodríguez, Fidel Vicioso, Emilia Suarez, Richard ThierotDirected by: Francisco J. Rivera RodríguezProduced by: Jew-Yo-Rican Productions & Lana RussellPresented by: The Space at IrondaleUpcoming Reading with Conch Shell Productions at HB Studios - Dates TBA

Managed, planned, created, and marketed creative and performance events for fundraising initiatives, which included comedy shows, immersive theater, open mic/jam nights, and social events. Rented out 2K sq. ft. space to artists for projects. Conducted monthly meetings with Town Hall president, maintaining positive relationship with and support of the City of Los Angeles (LA).Selected Contributions:Contributed to exposing new artists to audiences and drawing in LA residents downtown, now a thriving area, by putting on performances in the community.*Voted Time Out LA's best Downtown Comedy Spot 2011