The Algemeiner’s 12th Annual ‘J100 Gala’ 2026 lit up New York City, bringing together some of the most influential figures in Jewish life for a night of glamour, celebration, and recognition at Capitale NY.
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Often called the Jewish equivalent of TIME100, the sold-out gala also debuted “The Top 100 People Positively Influencing Jewish Life,” highlighting individuals whose actions had a meaningful impact on Jewish life and Israel over the past year. The evening brought together both new inductees and returning ‘J100’ honorees, reflecting a growing, engaged community committed to leadership, impact, and connection.
Guests arrived in style to Capitale, entering the front atrium where passed hors d’oeuvres, abundant buffet stations, and drinks set a lively, festive tone. Attendees mingled in high spirits, greeting old friends and making new connections before moving into the grand ballroom. As guests took their seats in the sold-out ballroom, excitement buzzed through the air. Green lights bathed the room in a warm glow, while dozens of tables were adorned with towering floral centerpieces that added bursts of color and elegance. The combination of dramatic lighting, lush blooms, and sophisticated décor created a celebratory atmosphere, setting the stage for a memorable evening.
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Hundreds of attendees included former New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Nicole and Joseph Kaufman, Dan Loeb, Ingeborg and Ira Rennert, and Kate Vlasovskaya. Draiman performed both the Israeli and American national anthems, adding a musical highlight, while Milei and Weinstein were recognized for their positive contributions to Jewish life.
The gala celebrated honorees whose work truly makes a difference — from global leadership to education, advocacy, philanthropy, and creative innovation. No list can capture every quiet act of impact, but the ‘J100’ highlights individuals whose influence reaches far and wide, coming together like a vibrant quilt of leadership, courage, and inspiration.
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Founded in 1972 as the Yiddish-language Der Algemeiner Journal, The Algemeiner has grown into a nonprofit global news outlet. Today it is led by CEO David M. Cohen, Esq., M.Sc., with editorial direction from Executive Editor Aaron Kliegman and publisher Simon Jacobson. The evening was chaired by Simon Jacobson, Bernard-Henri Lévy, Editor Dovid Efune and his wife Mushka Efune, and Nina Rennert Davidson and Mitch Davidson. CEO David Cohen welcomed guests and helped set the celebratory tone of the night.
From the lively atrium to the glowing, sold-out ballroom with its towering floral arrangements, the gala captured the spirit of celebration and community. Guests left with memories of a joyful, star-studded night honoring individuals who continue to strengthen and inspire Jewish life around the world.
