Special guests gathered for the opening of the L.A. Sephardic Film Festival. (photo courtesy of the L.A. Sephardic Film Festival)

The Los Angeles Sephardic Film Festival Gala ‘s opening night was held on Nov. 9 at Paramount Studios in Hollywood. The evening celebrated the 45th anniversary of the Sephardic Educational Center and the 16th year of the film festival, which highlights Sephardic stories, culture and heritage from around the world. Jason Rimokh, David Rimokh and the Rimokh family were honored at the gala for their leadership and community impact.

Special guests at the festival’s opening night included Rabbi Daniel Bouskila, left, international director of the Sephardic Educational Center; Rachel Bachar and Consul General Israel Bachar; Major Liad Diamond, IDF public diplomacy head; Neil Sheff, president of the Sephardic Educational Center, and Rachel Sheff, chair of the gala. For information, visit secfilmfest.com.