Rami Even-Esh

Rapper and Comic as Kosha Dillz

A) What qualities make the nominee deserving of the Z3 Bridge Builder Award?

Kosha Dillz is a builder of connections. For the past few years, his work in hip hop as the premier outspoken Israeli-American Jewish voice in rap has barred him from many appearances but also been largely part of his breakthrough identity.

When Kosha Dillz couldn't get booked at venues, he began performing in the streets of NYC Uniting all colors and creeds of people thru hip hop music and freestyle rap. He began to curate events called "Soul Vey" with a fellow Bay Area Non Profit Value Culture, bringing together Black and Jewish crowds for cultural understanding and unity.

A rapper now for decades, he realized the need to create an event similar to that of the civil rights eras and which black and jewish communities marched side by side for civil rights. With events like Soul Vey , and being the "jewish rapper" on a black television show , Kosha really brings the representation we need to the forefront by authentically being him.

B) In what ways has the nominee demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to their work in bridging divides?

Since October 7, Kosha went from trying to be interviewing to being the street journalist we all need. He has attended various rallies from all sides of the spectrum to interview protestors and supporters about what is the easiest (or toughest) way to peace.

C) How has the nominee's work impacted the Jewish community and beyond?

https://jewishfed.org/news/events/soul-vey-shabbat-dinner-celebrating-black-history-month-womens-history-month-shabbat

https://jewishjournal.com/culture/318514/soul-vey-shabbat-focuses-black-community-and-jews/

https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/kosha-dillz-presents-soulvey

https://jfi.org/year-round/jfi-on-demand/soul-vey-havdalah