And the winner is…
AUSTRALIA’S ultimate Jewish mother revealed that the secrets to her maternal prowess are the passion with which she listens to her children and her innately fun-loving nature.
AUSTRALIA’S ultimate Jewish mother revealed that the secrets to her maternal prowess are the passion with which she listens to her children and her innately fun-loving nature.
The AJN’s Ultimate Jewish Mum competition winner Laya Slavin was chosen from six finalists after nominations were received from sons and daughters nationwide, all claiming that their mothers were one of a kind.
Slavin was surprised and honoured by her victory. “I feel really humbled, but anyone that knows me would know that I killed my kids after I found out that they nominated me because for me to be singled out as a special mother is not something I enjoy,” she said. “I have good friends that are single mums, those that have chosen to foster and adopt kids, others that have waited many years just to be called mum and others that have kids with special needs who are all bringing their kids up in such a beautiful way and doing it with such amazing happiness. So to me, they’re all the ultimate Jewish mothers, so I’m accepting this for Jewish mothers all around the world.”
Slavin, whose seven children range in age from three to 20 years old, said that along with managing Our Big Kitchen with her husband Rabbi Dovid Slavin, there is never a dull moment, but she revels in every minute of her mothering duties.
“I learn the most from my kids, they are just the most fun to be around and I love being a kid with them, it’s become a passion,” Slavin told The AJN.
Slavin also says it’s helpful to learn from fellow mums, young and old.
“I love watching mothers and I learn lessons from all of them – from a new mother’s excitement about her child to a more experienced one who tells me to cherish every moment because it goes by so fast.”
As for her own guiding principles, Slavin said, “If there’s one thing that guides me and that I like to pass onto the children, it’s knowing that the traditions we’re keeping and the mitzvot encompass everything we do.
“It’s also so important to be there to listen to the children, be close with them and give them love so they can feel the confidence to carry on doing good in the world while feeling good about themselves.”
CASSILEE KAHN
The AJN’s Ultimate Jewish Mother competition winner Laya Slavin with husband Rabbi Dovin Slavin and their seven children.
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