Paul Giles, 22, is a member of the KBI Communications & Marketing Committee and the KBI Young Professionals. He recently completed his master’s degree in political science at the University of Ottawa. Raised in Sudbury, he brings both Northern Ontario roots and a fresh perspective to life at KBI.
1. Paul, I didn’t realize you chose to convert. That’s wonderful. What brought you to KBI?
I completed my conversion to Judaism at KBI. Back in grade 12, I had already decided I wanted to be Jewish. I started going to shul in Sudbury, but it was a reform synagogue. During COVID, we met online once a month, just me and three others doing Kabbalat Shabbat. The synagogue administrator suggested that since I was heading to Ottawa for university, I should begin the formal conversion process there, where resources were stronger.
I was drawn to the Conservative movement for its seriousness about halakha, its egalitarianism, and its recognition of modern realities. My conversion at KBI was unique. I studied under three different rabbis. Most people work with one, so my path was unusual, but deeply meaningful.
2. What do you love most about being part of this community?
I love our Kehila, our sense of community. Sure, sometimes people clash over a Facebook post, but overall, we’re strong, resilient, and knowledgeable. People step up to lead services, join committees, and take on responsibilities. It makes the synagogue more than just a place to pray, it’s truly a communal hub. That’s what I love most.
3. What was it like growing up in Sudbury?
I really loved it. I grew up in rural Sudbury, on a lake in the south end, without cell service for years. Sudbury has a quirky history. Before I was born, mining pollution left the landscape barren, looking like the moon. Later, the superstack reduced pollution, though it harmed nearby parks.
Sudbury is small, where everyone knows everyone. That’s why I love KBI, it feels similar. Even though it’s Ottawa’s largest synagogue, it still feels intimate, like Northern Ontario, where neighbours wave and stop to chat. Those values of connection and recognition are reflected at KBI.
4. Beautiful. I must ask what your parents thought when you said, “Hey Mom and Dad, I want to become a Jew!”
I was lucky. I didn’t begin the formal process until my second or third year of university, but I had been reflecting for years. By then, it wasn’t a surprise. My family is Roman Catholic. My mom said, ‘If that’s what’s meaningful for you, as long as it’s not harmful, we support you.’ Today, our household blends traditions, we have a Christmas tree and a Hanukkiah in the window. It’s not always easy for families, but for us, it works beautifully.
6. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
Well, certainly the fact that I’m a convert. Also, I have Asperger Syndrome. It’s mild, so people don’t often notice. It’s now classified under autism, though I feel they’re distinct. It shapes who I am.
7. If you could have dinner with any Jewish figure, past or present, who would it be and why?
I’d love to dine with Hannah Arendt, the German Jewish political philosopher. My professors call me ideologically unpredictable, and I admire how Arendt refused to be boxed in. Her work, like “Eichmann in Jerusalem,” raised difficult questions and challenged assumptions. She was fearless, independent, and intellectually brilliant. I’d love to sit with her over coffee and explore her ideas.
Congratulations to Paul, who has officially wrapped up his graduate studies; no small feat! He’s heading back to Sudbury ready to take on whatever comes next. Wishing you all the best, Paul. The next chapter is going to be a great one!
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