16 | MAY 16 • 2024 
J
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D

etroit’s Jewish community 
can rest assured that the next 
generation of leaders is waiting 
in the wings. This year, the Jewish 
News is once again recognizing 
remarkable teens in our community 
who excel in academics, sports, 
activism and tikkun olam — among 
many other areas.
They all have one thing in common 
— they are making a difference in their 
communities.
Enjoy reading the following snapshots 
of this year’s crop of Rising Stars, 
presented in alphabetical order.

WONARE BURDE

Wonare Burde, 
17, lives in 
Pleasant Ridge 
and is a junior at 
Ferndale High 
School. She is a 
rising star at 
Temple Emanu-el 
in Oak Park. 
Wonare is 
active in the 
Ferndale High 

School Student Council, working 
to help others in her school. She is 
dedicated to her studies and enjoys 
learning. 
In the fall football season, Wonare 
is active in the Marching Band Color 
Guard using her athletic, artistic and 
dance skills in every routine. 
She is an exceptionally talented 
musician, playing the oboe. Outside 
of the school band, she is a member of 
the Civic Youth Ensemble Orchestra, 
organized by the Detroit Symphony 
Orchestra youth division, and was 
honored to be chosen to participate 
in the Senza program, an accelerated 
music education program for high 
school musicians also supported by the 
DSO. 
Wonare is a role model for the 
students at Yachad Religious School, 
serving as a madrichah in the second-
grade classroom. The teacher and 
kids in the classroom appreciate her 
kindness and caring presence. 
Wonare continues to rise in her 
gentle, quiet and powerful way as she 
touches those around her.

SYDNEY BUTLER

Sydney Butler, 
18, lives in 
Bloomfield Hills 
where she will 
soon graduate 
from Bloomfield 
Hills High 
School. She is a 
rising star at 
Temple Israel in 
West Bloomfield.
Sydney’s two-
year tenure as president of Temple 
Israel’s youth group, YFTI, has been 
marked by her unwavering dedication 
and exceptional leadership. Under her 
guidance, a vibrant sense of community 
has flourished, embracing newcomers 
and seniors alike. Sydney’s remarkable 
ability to connect with every teen she 
encounters ensures that no one feels 
overlooked, rather, they are warmly 
welcomed into the fold. Her mission 
to elevate every “YFTI Event” to new 
heights is nothing short of inspiring. 
Whether it be fundraisers, social 
action endeavors or weekend trips, 
Sydney consistently assumes a pivotal 

RISING STARS