Meet Yael Hamburger
January 27, 2026 | People in Our Neighborhood
Born and raised in Baltimore and now calling Canton home, Yael Hamburger is all about building community through movement, meaning and connection. Whether she’s running along the waterfront, planning gatherings with The Network or balancing nursing school at Johns Hopkins, Yael brings heart, energy and openness to everything she does. Her story is a beautiful reminder of how showing up and reaching out can turn familiar faces into lasting relationships.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Yael and I’m born and raised here in Baltimore. Originally from Owings Mills, I now live in Canton and really love being close to the water! I’m currently at Johns Hopkins getting my Master’s in Nursing, so have stayed close to home and really love being in the Baltimore community- with both new and old friends.
How has The Network impacted you?
The Network has allowed me to build on my previously existing connections as well as feel comfortable making new ones, forging relationships in the Jewish community that are meaningful and lasting. I really appreciate the support that I get when planning gatherings, the emphasis on the importance of Jewish life and values, and the people that I meet along the way.
What advice would you give to someone new to this community?
When in doubt, reach out! I know how hard it can be to feel like an outsider or how overwhelming it can be to be in a new environment, but it’s important to remember that at some point, everyone has felt this way. One of the things I love the most about this community is how welcoming everyone is, and how much people want you to feel like home here. Go to the event, reach out to that person you met to get coffee, and just be open-minded!
What is your favorite hobby right now?
Some of my favorite hobbies right now are running (shoutout to our local run clubs!), pickleball, hiking, boating and dancing!
What are you reading or watching?
I’m currently binging The Resident on Netflix- it feels like studying for school but in a really fun, drama filled way!
What else should people know about you?
Something really important to me is my connection to Israel- most of my family and some of my closest friends are there. I just completed my fifth volunteer trip since October 7th. A core holiday memory of mine includes being in Jerusalem with my extended family for our annual Hannukkah party- there are about 20 of my little cousins running around and it’s the most special time of the year!