COMMUNITY MAGAZINE March 2021

ADAR - NISSAN 5781 / MARCH 2021 49 HER ROOTS  Alisen is a first-generation American, whose Sephardic roots began in Egypt.  Her parents and grandparents on both sides were born in Cairo.  With different journeys to the U.S., her parents, Joseph Setton and Rachel Balassiano, ultimately met in Brooklyn. They married and moved to Florida shortly thereafter.   The oldest of four girls, Alisen is ultra-close with her sisters and says their individual accomplishments inspire her.  Eileen Alkabes is a respected public relations professional, Jaime Galapo is the owner of Galapo Group Design, an interior design firm, and Lorie Ofir is an award-winning teaching artist at the Perez Art MuseumMiami.     Alisen’s parents were the most incredible role models.  “We were my mom’s treasured gems and she made sure we knew it every single day.”      Alisen’s father, Joseph, grew up in Israel, was a paratrooper in the Israeli Army, and fought in the Six Day War.  Through his army experiences, he developed resilience and determination which shaped him into a successful self-made entrepreneur.  His war stories are what continually drive Alisen to overcome challenges – both personally and professionally.  “My dad always displayed courage and integrity.”  Childhood summers were spent in Wildwood, NJ, where the Settons owned a popular fine jewelry and souvenir shop.  Alisen and her sisters began helping in the family business at a young age, acquiring a strong work ethic and understanding the value of a dollar.  “Whether I was organizing hair accessories or putting price labels on merchandise, our parents made us feel that our contributions were so valuable.”   Alisen learned how to connect with people during those summers in Wildwood.  “When I stood behind the jewelry counter, it wasn’t about sales tactics; I discovered how to engage with people and to never judge a book by its cover.”  She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in International Finance and Marketing from the University of Miami in 1996.  Upon graduating, she was offered a position in New York City in the finance industry and eventually accepted a position working for the World Headquarters of Republic National Bank in Manhattan.  AS FATE WOULD HAVE IT...  While living in New York, Alisen’s cousin Joyce Matalon suggested she meet Isaac Chazanoff.  It was hashgacha pratit (Divine providence) that he would turn out to be the namesake and grandson of Isaac Mavorah, a”h , Alisen’s grandparents’ guardian angel.  It was Mr. Mavorah who had personally guided and offered tremendous emotional support to her grandparents, Joseph and Esther Balassiano, through their first and most difficult years in America.  Hashem most definitely arranged that date with Isaac Chazanoff, who is now her husband of 20 years.    Alisen and Isaac live in Brooklyn with their three children who “mean everything” to them.  Freddy, 18, is a business student at Baruch College; Norma, 16, is a sophomore at Yeshivah of Flatbush; and Raquel, 14, is a freshman at Ilan in New Jersey.  Alisen is mindful about parenting and life balance.  She encourages her children to “do life with passion.”   Isaac and their kids are so proud and supportive of Mom’s thriving business. Isaac is a managing director for a major wholesale company and, fortunately for Alisen, is quite tech-savvy.  He also founded Times of Your Life Slideshows and used his knowledge to create a logo and catchy digital ads on Instagram to promote The Brooklyn Barista.  “Isaac’s endless support and love have been extraordinary. None of this would be possible without him.  Even with his own workload, he has helped with everything from picking up the pieces at home to sourcing bottles and supplies.  He has shown up for me in every way. My children were also motivated to experiment with their own businesses.”   AND THEN COVID-19 HIT… Determined to use her time meaningfully during the pandemic, Alisen reassessed her life and business.  She focused on her family and stayed in touch with loved ones.  Alisen also donated a portion of proceeds from her cold brew sales to SBH Crisis Fund, among other pandemic-related causes.    When she’s not brewing, Alisen treasures her family and personal time.   “I am so grateful that my journey came full circle and that Community Magazine asked me to share my story!”  You can connect with Alisen at: thebrooklynbarista18@gmail.com , (917) 533-6340, or on Instagram @thebrooklynbarista. EllenGellerKamaras,CPA/MBA, isan InternationalCoachFederation(ICF)AssociateCertified Coach. Hercoachingspecialties include life,career,anddatingcoaching. Shecanbecontactedat ellen@lifecoachellen.com ( www.lifecoachellen.com) .