About Me
My Personal Story
I grew up in a stable reform Jewish community and family in the heart of north London. At the time I didn't realise how lucky I was to be surrounded by inspirational teachers, family and friends.
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Being Jewish influenced everything I did, whether in a Jewish context or not. I am a graduate of the RSY-Netzer leadership and Israel programme (Shnat Netzer 97/98), hold an undergraduate degree in Comparative Religion from the University of Manchester (2001) and a Masters in Modern Jewish Studies from the University of Leeds (2006).
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Most recently, I set up and ran a community cafe in a super-diverse area of Leeds, specifically aimed at welcoming people who did not have local network or friendships. ToastLoveCoffee operated in counter-cultural ways that lowered the barriers to participation, and the volunteers, staff and guests alike all enjoyed the warm, safe and inspiring space that we collectively created.
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Since Covid led to the closing down of ToastLoveCoffee, I have been developing ideas, and deepening my learning around all things Jewish, with a commitment to applying that entrepreneurial spirit to Jewish life, local to me in Leeds, in other cities nearby, in retreat centres in the countryside, and online.
I am married, with three children, and a dog and two cats make our house a home.​​
​​I am excited that you're joining me on this journey - thank you!
Organisation, Leadership and Innovation
Anna Dyson M(Sc)
I am thrilled to have graduated from Hebrew Union College's MSOLI programme, where I honed my leadership skills and innovative thinking. This 14 month intensive journey included inspiring trips to Los Angeles and New York, where I had the opportunity to visit remarkable Jewish projects and meet innovative Jewish leaders who are making a difference in their communities, and reshaping the Jewish landscape. These experiences have truly enriched my understanding of the potential for impactful leadership, and pragmatic skills to help replicate this here in the UK. Having graduated in August 2025, I feel ready to take on new challenges and contribute fully to Jewish life for today, and tomorrow.
Student Rabbi
The call to the rabbinate came early in my life, but I’ve spent the last twenty years gathering the life experience necessary to truly answer it.
Now, as a wife, a mother, and having had experience founding my own social enterprise in Leeds, I’ve had the opportunity to deepen my understanding of human connection and community, both within and outside the Jewish world.
This extensive, real-world perspective is now the foundation of my rabbinic training. When choosing a school, I was looking for a place that mirrored this expansive view, which led me to the Academy for Jewish Religion California (AJRCA).
I found my perfect fit in their philosophy: AJRCA embraces the rich tapestry of Jewish thought, drawing on the diverse wisdom of various denominations while remaining unbound by any single perspective. Through every course, I am gaining a profound appreciation for the wisdom of the generations that came before us, ensuring that however I lead, my work will be deeply rooted in our traditions and teachings, inspiring us for today.