The Centre of Jewish Artists (COJA) was founded by Romi Kupfer in 2020, as a dedicated space for Jewish artists and arts workers to connect, collaborate and access support within the wider Australian arts community. Recognising the unique challenges faced by Jewish artists in Australia, including a lack of representation, limited cultural awareness and pervasive antisemitism, COJA emerged to bridge these gaps.
COJA is a home for Jewish artists across Australia. Whether you paint, perform, write, or create in other ways - if you are Jewish and make art you belong here.
COJA is run by artists, for artists. We build community, spark connections and open doors. Through events, workshops and our membership program, we support artists at every stage of your career. COJA is a space to feel seen, heard, and supported - not just professionally, but culturally and personally too.
Jewish identity isn't one thing. it's a tapestry of experiences, beliefs, rituals and stories. COJA welcomes every version of Jewish identity and celebrates the richness this diversity brings to our creative landscape. We pride ourselves on creating and holding space for everyone in our creative community. Together we are shaping a future where artists can bring their whole selves to their work.
Our People
Staff
Founder and CEO Romi Kupfer
General Manager Dominic Weintraub
Engagement Coordinator Aimee Raitman
Communications Coordinator Dahlia D'Onghia
Governing Board
Romi Kupfer
Dominic Weintraub
Adam Krongold
Strategic Advisory Board
Romi Kupfer
Dominic Weintraub
Adam Krongold
Paul Benveniste
Nikki Oppenheimer
Jarrod Lewis
Staff
Romi Kupfer
Founder and CEO
Romi Kupfer is a Jewish theatremaker who directs, produces and facilitates live performance. Romi is driven to create spaces that are inclusive and accessible and leads with authenticity and kindness. Romi founded COJA to spotlight and celebrate the intersectionality of Jewish identity and artistic practice. She is passionate about integrating her knowledge in mental health, arts businesses and the Australian arts sector to support other artists to claim their creative agency and build sustainable practices. Romi has worked with companies such as La Mama Theatre, Theatre Works, Arts Centre Melbourne, Arena Theatre Company and Back to Back Theatre.
Aimee Raitman
Engagement Coordinator
Aimee Raitman is a Jewish artist working across dance, performance art and interactive installation. Aimee is passionate about building community through her art by inspiring connection amongst audiences and performers, as well as in her role at COJA, fostering and strengthening relationships with COJA members. Aimee has always had a strong connection to her Jewish culture and the Jewish community, finding avenues to connect them through her roles in the arts, having previously worked with FOJAM (Festival of Jewish Arts and Music).
Dominic Weintraub
General Manager
Dominic Weintraub is a Jewish performer, theatremaker, and arts facilitator based in Melbourne. In all facets of his work, Dominic seeks to cultivate the meaningful exchange of ideas between artists and non-artists. Creating spaces where diverse communities can come together to build collective identities, challenge themselves, and imagine possible futures. Dominic works across a range of forms, and has worked on creative projects with The Office for Women, Ylab Global, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne and the National Gallery of Victoria.
Dahlia D'Onghia
Communications Coordinator
Dahlia D’Onghia is a Jewish musician, writer, radio presenter and media producer. Dahlia is passionate about celebrating the diversity of the Jewish community and creating spaces for diverse communities to come together. Dahlia has her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Journalism and her Masters in Global Media Communication. With experience working for local and international not-for-profit organisations, Dahlia brings a broad range of media and communication skills to her role at COJA.
Strategic Advisory Board
Adam Krongold
Adam Krongold is an investor, philanthropist, and arts advocate based in Melbourne, Australia. With a diverse career spanning agribusiness, retail sales, communications, and a deep engagement with the arts, he is passionate about exploring the intersection of technology and creativity.
Adam serves as Co-President of the Jewish Museum of Australia and sits on the boards of the Centre of Jewish Artists (COJA) in Melbourne and Shenkar College of Engineering, Art, and Design in Tel Aviv. Committed to fostering innovation, dialogue, and inclusivity, he believes that true success involves supporting and uplifting others to make a meaningful impact.
Paul Benveniste
Paul is an investment advisor with over 25 years of experience in banking, finance and investment advice. Coming from a family deeply rooted in Jewish culture and a keen interest in the arts, Paul brings a strategic mindset to philanthropy having served as treasurer at For Change Co as well as advising on the First Step Relocation Project 2024.
Paul and his network have supported a variety of organisations focussing on equality and disadvantage. Paul is committed to championing social harmony through tackling issues directly, engaging new and existing stakeholders and building long term relationships. Paul is committed to creating a community where compassion and hope thrive and is thrilled to play a role supporting COJA in its critical mission.
Nikki Oppenheimer
Nikki Oppenheimer is a dynamic leader with expertise in business development, sales and marketing. A passionate brand builder and entrepreneur, she co-founded a children’s design brand that grew from a Melbourne start-up into a global success story, culminating in a successful acquisition in 2025. With over 20 years of international experience in design, product development, and buying, Nikki has shaped compelling consumer experiences and driven business growth across diverse markets.
Through her position on the Strategic Advisory Board, Nikki is committed to building inclusive ecosystems and brings her business and communication expertise to champion Jewish creativity and leadership for future generations
Jarrod Lewis
Jarrod Lewis is a psychiatrist and musician based in Melbourne. Bringing together clinical expertise and a lifelong commitment to creative expression, he is passionate about how music and art support emotional wellbeing and connection. At COJA, Jarrod is committed to nurturing a vibrant, supportive community where Jewish artists can thrive personally and creatively.
Our Values
Kehilla / Community
Fostering a cohesive community, inclusive of Jewish artists and arts workers. Creating spaces where creatives of all ages, artforms and career stages can feel a sense of belonging and connection.
Kavod / Respect
Respecting the land that we live and work on, and our connection to the lands of our ancestors. Acknowledging the diverse intersectionalities that many Jewish people have.
Tikkun Olam / Repairing the World
Supporting artists to positively impact the broader community through their artistic practices. Promoting environmental sustainability in everything we do.
Tzedek / Social Justice