#SpotlightSunday - Ari Jogiel | Shorashim - Israel with Israelis

#SpotlightSunday - Ari Jogiel

Meet Ari Jogiel​. He recently started an  American based clothing brand called LEOPARDËT that offers unique casual elegance for both men & women that is made right here in the USA! Learn more about Ari, his Birthright Israel journey, and what he's up to now below:

Where are you from originally?

Mexico City, Mexico.

When did you go on Birthright Israel?

January 2012.

Why did you decide to go on a free trip to Israel? 

I had just graduated and thought it was a great way to celebrate. I went with my brother and good friend.

What is your favorite memory from your trip?

The bond that was created when we were at the Bedouin tents. Eating delicious food, having deep conservations next to a campfire, and waking up at 5 am to go on a camel ride was incredible!

Tell us about the Israelis that you met on your experience.

They were incredible and super welcoming. One of them invited all 40 of us to have dinner at her house. Delightful experience.

How did your experience impact you following the trip?

It puts everything into perspective of what it means to be a Jew. Regardless of where you are, it's important to keep up with the religion and support it.

Tell us about what you are up to now.

I started a fashion brand, Leopardet,  eight months ago. I am working on a movement to bring American made back.

When you say "bring American made back", tell us a little more about what that entails. What does your campaign involve and how can people help out and get involved?

Bring back American Made entails raising awareness to people that 98% of the clothing sold in the US is being made in countries outside of here and there is a lot of abuse and child labor attached to it. We want to change that and start a movement, so companies, like ours, can start making their stuff here. They can get involved by buying something from the collection and sharing the campaign with their friends!

What makes Leopardet unique?

We offer minimalist, fashionable pieces without the mark-ups you see with larger brands and it is all 'American made'!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I want to the company to become the American Lacoste.

Who is your biggest role model?

I love Elie Wiesel. I was able to meet him a couple of times. He is a great inspiration.

What's a fun fact about yourself?

I moved to a 12,00 person town in the middle of nowhere in Illinois after living in Mexico City, which has more than 20 million people.

What's your favorite food to eat in Israel and place to eat it at?

Shawarma on Yaffo.

Why would you recommend that others go on Birthright Israel: Shorashim?

It was a lifechanging experience. Best 10 days of my life!

Anything else you want to add?

Go on Birthright Israel ASAP with Shorashim and please check out our campaign to support 'made in America' fashion by clicking here.