The Itzhak Mavashev Foundation
Our Story
Founded by philanthropist David Mavashev, the foundation was established in honor of his father, Itzhak Mavashev, a respected figure who devoted his life to the study and preservation of Bukharian Jewish heritage. Recognizing the need to safeguard this unique history in the face of modernization and migration, we are committed to collecting, documenting, and sharing the traditions that define our identity.
Through scholarly research, cultural initiatives, and community-driven programs, the foundation serves as a bridge between generations—ensuring that our heritage remains a source of pride and inspiration for Bukharian Jews worldwide.
Our History & Legacy
The Itzhak Mavashev Foundation, established in 1985, honors the legacy of Yitzhak Mavashev, a prominent figure in the Bukharian Jewish community. In 1985, the first conference was held in Tel Aviv to commemorate Mavashev's 80th anniversary and posthumous publication of his book "Folklore in Memoirs." His wife, Tova Mavashev, and others spearheaded this initiative, marking the founding of the Foundation.
Mavashev was a pioneer in the study of Bukharian Jewish heritage, particularly its folklore, music, and literature. He also founded Israel's first Bukharian Jewish newspaper, "Hatkhia," and was a key figure in preserving the cultural traditions of the Bukharian Jewish community.
In 2004, the Foundation established the Institute for Studying the Heritage of Bukharian Jews in the Diaspora to collect and document materials related to Mavashev's life and work, ensuring that his contributions are preserved for future generations.
Foundation representatives in traditional Bukharian ceremonial robes at a cultural ceremony in Uzbekistan
Our Mission
We are dedicated to:
Preserving History
Documenting Bukharian Jewish customs, language, music, and folklore.
Educating & Inspiring
Providing resources, workshops, and cultural programs to engage the community.
Connecting Generations
Recording oral histories and showcasing personal stories to strengthen cultural identity.
Promoting Awareness
Highlighting the contributions of Bukharian Jews to the global cultural and historical landscape.
By fostering a deep understanding of our past, we empower future generations to carry forward the traditions that define our people.
Our Impact
Through our ongoing projects and collaborations, we:
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Publish research papers and cultural archives documenting Bukharian Jewish history.
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Organize events and workshops celebrating traditional music, cuisine, and literature.
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Record oral histories of elders to capture personal experiences and community narratives.
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Develop language resources to preserve and promote Judeo-Tajik (Bukharian).
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Showcase notable Bukharian Jewish figures who have made lasting contributions to society.
Our Team
David Mavashev
Founder & President
A philanthropist and advocate for cultural preservation, David Mavashev founded the Itzhak Mavashev Foundation to safeguard the rich traditions, language, and history of Bukharian Jews. His dedication to this cause has led to the development of numerous cultural initiatives, research projects, and events that celebrate and document Bukharian heritage.
Rafael Nektalov
Cultural Advisor / Executive Director
A composer, editor-in-chief of Bukharian Times, and co-founder of Shashmaqam Forever, Rafael Nektalov is a key figure in the foundation's cultural initiatives. His expertise in Bukharian music and arts brings invaluable insight into the preservation and promotion of our heritage.
Marina Mavashev
Vice President
Playing a crucial role in the foundation's daily operations, Marina manages logistics and finances while documenting key initiatives. She ensures that the foundation runs smoothly and efficiently. Traveling alongside David, Marina actively supports cultural events and works behind the scenes to strengthen the foundation's impact.
Avner Mavashev
Vice President
Supporting the foundation's mission by contributing to community outreach and fostering connections that help expand its reach. Avner plays an essential role in ensuring that the foundation remains connected to Bukharian Jewish communities around the world, strengthening its network and influence.
Jennifer Mavashev
Creative Director
As Creative Director, Jennifer Mavashev leads the foundation's branding, storytelling, and digital presence. She develops engaging content, designs cultural campaigns, and ensures that the foundation's message resonates with a wide audience. Through visual and narrative storytelling, she brings the foundation's mission to life.
Key Milestones & Activities
Major Milestones
Institute Establishment
The foundation created an institute to preserve Mavashev's documents and memories.
Publishing Initiatives
Books like "Memories of Contemporaries" (2005) reflect Mavashev's life and legacy.
Grants and Support
The Foundation has funded teaching the Bukharian language and research expeditions.
Awards and Recognition
The Yitzhak Mavashev Prize was introduced to honor contributions to Bukharian Jewish heritage.
Conferences & Festivals
The Foundation hosts "Shashmaqam Forever" and other cultural events to celebrate Bukharian heritage.
Recent and Ongoing Initiatives
Shashmaqam Forever
The Foundation recently hosted the Fifth International Festival in Uzbekistan (2023) and will hold a conference in New York in 2024 focused on Bukharian Jewish language and literature.
Artistic Contributions
In collaboration with the Marjani Foundation, the Foundation has published works on the life and art of Russian artist Elena Korovai, shedding light on the Bukharian Jewish experience.
Musicology Research
The Foundation supports extensive research into the Babakhanov dynasty of musicians, contributing to the study of Bukharian Jewish music.
Through its work, the Foundation continues to preserve the cultural and historical legacy of Bukharian Jews, ensuring that their contributions to global heritage are celebrated and remembered.