About Robert J. Saferstein

(Market Development Director, prev. Online Director & Editor) Interested in the interfacing of ritual, experience, and technology, Robert J. Saferstein has used his background in the arts and technology to broaden the definition of what ‘Jewish’ can look like by building community and realizing new points of engagement across multiple platforms. Currently the Market Development Director of Sh’ma Journal, and named to The Jewish Week’s “36 Under 36” for his leadership in the LGBTQ Jewish world, Saferstein is the recipient of two Natan Grants for ROI Entrepreneurs for his series of upscale Shabbat and holiday dinners for gay Jewish professionals, Friday Night Lights (FNLights.com). His latest initiative is Eighteen:22, a Schusterman Connection Point that launched in August 2015 in Salzburg, Austria, that brought together over 70 Jewish LGBTQ and ally influencers from around the globe in order to cultivate an international network of visionaries working to advance ideas and initiatives that make the world a more inclusive and equal place. For more info, visit eighteen22.com. Prior to joining Sh’ma, Saferstein served as the founding Creative Director of BroadwaysBestShows.com, a leading Broadway website. Represented by Smart.MAGNA, Saferstein’s fine art and Broadway production photography has been featured in numerous publications, including, "The New York Times. " He is the author and composer of the musicals "Oedipus for Kids," (NYMF Next Link Selection, Samuel French, Inc.), and "The Zegend of Lelda" (Best Musical, WVMTF). Film work include "Generation Um," "The Confession," and "Gun Hill Road." He is a graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, a member of the ROI Community for Jewish leaders and innovators, and a PresenTense Social Start Trainer.