Marcel Hollender In Concert |
I remember being 20 years old, flipping through TV channels and always coming across Shalom Brasil. The program used to showcase events from the Jewish community. I would watch for a few minutes, not understanding much, but I knew it was journalistic coverage of Jewish events.
Twenty years later, I’ve attended some of those events myself — and I still don’t understand… just kidding.
“… O Shalom Brasil chegou, nenhum evento é bom se o Shalom Brasil não estiver…” (Marcel Motto).
Marcel was not only one of the founders of Shalom Brasil. His project went beyond the boundaries of the Jewish community and reached people like me, a “goy,” sparking not only curiosity but also respect and admiration for Jewish culture.
His journey with Shalom Brasil began with the creation of Tama Vídeo, alongside Tania Bragarnick, inspired by the lack of media coverage of an event called the March of Life, held in São Paulo in honor of Holocaust survivors. From that moment, a commitment was born: to give voice and visibility to the Jewish community, recording its stories and strengthening its presence in Brazilian media.
Marcel was married to Denise Golabek, his loyal companion, and a devoted father to Patrick, Ariel, and Carol. On social media, he made a point of expressing the love and pride he felt for his children.
Shalom Brasil became an essential communication channel, broadcast weekly on public TV and available on YouTube. More than sharing traditions and news, it brought people closer together, built bridges, and inspired generations.
Charismatic and tireless, Marcel moved easily between religious and non-religious circles. His good humor left a deep mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Many saw him as the cameraman and director of the program, but after a Mossad investigation, I discovered he loved to sing.
I watched a video where he sang with such joy and energy that he looked like a “Jewish pop star” — Marcel Hollender In Concert.
For some, Marcel was a mentor; for others, a true “father figure.” Without a doubt, he encouraged young journalists and left a legacy that will remain alive in the memory of the Jewish community.
Agora vai pro mundo Marcel… (Marcel Motto)
Images: used with permission from Liane G. Zaidler’s personal archive