From Making Jews to Makerspace: The Ben Braunstein Story

When Ben Braunstein agreed to work for Hillel 818 he had one condition that was non-negotiable: Anything he created for Hillel 818, whether it be software, a new app, or an original mezuzah design he would retain ownership over the intellectual property. At his heart, Ben has always been a creator and a builder. During his time as a student at American Jewish University, Pierce College, and CSUN, Ben was actively building community at Hillel 818. And for the past 2 years, Ben has worked for Hillel 818 professionally as our Operations Director.

While helping us open our brand new building and modernizing our systems of operations, Ben has kept working on his entrepreneurial dream - to open up a makerspace for builders and craftspeople to build things and make crafts. As Ben explained, “Social Medium is a Social Makerspace (Art Studio) where Makers come together to connect, make things, and have fun through projects, classes and events. Social Medium has already begun to foster a community of nerdy and creative people who enjoy hanging out and expressing themselves through their projects.”

Ben’s time at Hillel 818, and vast professional experience at other Jewish organizations, has prepared him for this new journey: “I want to bring my skills and values as a Jewish community builder to the secular world. I have always enjoyed art, science, and making things. Unfortunately, once you graduate from school there are few opportunities to enjoy those passions, and even fewer opportunities to meet other creative and nerdy people.”

If you want to learn more about Social Medium, check out their website here, make sure to visit them in the Fallbrook Mall, and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube!