A Conversation with David Anzarouth
David is the director of operations for a top real estate team in Ottawa and the new interim head of the Ottawa Talmud Torah (OTT). Recently, Kate McGregor, Chair of the Communications Committee, met with him. Their conversation follows:
1. What brought you to our congregation?
My Dad! Initially, when my dad moved to Ottawa, he was looking for an Orthodox synagogue but was drawn to Agudath Israel, one of the legacy shuls that now make up KBI. This has been my home synagogue for 31 years.
2. What do you love most about being part of this community?
I like that everyone has a voice and can help shape the direction of our community.
3. Where did you grow up?
Ottawa. I went to Talmud Torah Afternoon School (now OTT), completed Grade 9 at Yitzhak Rabin High School, then transferred to Merivale High School. Following business studies at McMaster University in Hamilton, I moved to Toronto for work. Now, I’m back in my hometown.
My sister, Emily, and I grew up in an observant Jewish household. Jewish education and keeping kosher were a big part of my family.
My dad is my role model and the backbone of my family. He taught me everything I know about being Jewish. My mom instilled in me the importance of compromise, how to be a good person, and the values of giving and receiving. They each made sacrifices for one another in order to build something better together.
4. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I would much rather read Torah than lead services! Give me the entire Torah portion to read, and I will learn it all.
5. If you could have dinner with any Jewish figure (past or present), who would it be and why?
Anna Heilman. When I was in grade 8, we had to do a project on a historical Jewish figure. I chose Mordechai Anielewicz, leader of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. I interviewed Anna, a member of the Uprising who knew him personally and who happened to be living in Ottawa. When my dad and I visited her, she must have been in her late 80s or early 90s. When we asked if we could bring refreshments, she declined, saying that since the Holocaust, she had lost interest in food. That moment has stayed with me to this day. Interviewing her was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.
6. What book is on your nightstand?
The Silmarillion. I’m a huge fantasy and sci-fi fan and a bit of a nerd. I like to think I have a healthy obsession with Tolkien and “The Lord of the Rings.” I own the whole collection of his writings, which I read every year. This book provides the backstory to Tolkien’s Middle-earth universe.
7. What is your favourite word?
Ru’ach. It defines the Jewish spirit within me and the energy I bring to my Jewish life, my synagogue, and teaching.