Nochum Mandel (also known as Nuchy or Nate Mandel) was raised in a family deeply rooted in catering and event planning. From an early age, he was schlepping crates of dishes and helping set up venues alongside his mother, Davii Mandel, and his sister, Chupie Kleinberger, the former owners of MiChicas Catering & Events. Those formative experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for creating meaningful gatherings. Over the past decade, Nochum has refined his expertise in project management, organizational effectiveness, marketing, development, and operational execution.

In September of 2025, Nochum stepped into the role of Founder & Executive Director of Nachal Novea. He is responsible for guiding the organization’s brand identity, operations, marketing, fundraising, finances, budgeting, communications, and strategic partnerships.

For Nochum, nothing is more moving than real-life experiences. He believes that while advocating online for morality and the Jewish Nation is important, nothing compares to the power of physically bringing people together. It is this conviction that drives his full-time commitment to building Nachal Novea in the wake of October 7th. The opportunity to profoundly impact Jewish lives through unity, resilience, and strength. For Nochum, true leadership means going on the offensive: creating experiences that empower Jews from within, rather than reacting to what comes from outside.

Yanky Felberbaum was raised in the Chassidic community of New Square, where he developed a deep commitment to tradition and communal life under the guidance of the Skvere Rebbe, Shlita. He later became a vital force in the Orthodox community of the Upper West Side, working closely with Rav Moshe Vorhand, Shlita, and helping to strengthen bonds through Shabbat and Yom Tov gatherings at Heichel Moshe.

Trained as a mental health professional, Yanky earned a master’s degree in psychology and social work from Long Island University and today serves children and teenagers at Sipuk Clinic Pesach Tikvah while also maintaining a private practice in Brooklyn. His ability to connect with people, support their growth, and foster resilience has become a cornerstone of his leadership.

At Nachal Novea, Yanky serves as Founder & Community Outreach Director. He leads the organization’s outreach, singles programming and acts as the primary liaison for attendees, community leaders, and partner organizations, particularly those connected to camps and Shabbatons. As the public face of Nachal Novea’s community initiatives, he is responsible for building meaningful connections that drive engagement and participation.

For Yanky, the heart of Jewish unity is found in people coming together. Through his leadership in singles programming, he helps create spaces of belonging, connection, and inspiration that strengthen Jewish identity and community life.

Coming soon!