Catching Up with Yael Hamburger

January 27, 2026 | People in Our Neighborhood

Originally published January 2026. Updated September 2026. 

A lot has changed since we first introduced you to Yael Hamburger. Now a pediatric nurse, Yael is also eight months into her role as a Young Adult Connector in Baltimore with The Network. She’s enjoying this new chapter and finding plenty of ways to bring people together.

From pickleball and line dancing to helping new friendships grow, Yael stays busy. Connection remains at the heart of it all.

Finding Balance After Grad School

Yael recently graduated with her RN MSN and started working as a pediatric nurse. The transition has brought a welcome sense of balance.

“It’s been a really nice transition from grad school to the new job,” Yael shared. “I’ve been able to get much more of a work-life balance.”

Outside of work, she makes time for family and friends. She also stays active with running and pickleball. Recently, she has even tried new hobbies like line dancing.

Meeting other young Jewish adults in the area has also helped her feel connected to the community.

Building Connections as a Young Adult Connector

After eight months as a Young Adult Connector, Yael says the relationships are one of the best parts of the role. She especially loves seeing friendships grow from the gatherings she hosts.

“I’ve had several friends tell me they’ve made new connections and formed new lasting relationships from the events that I’ve hosted as a Connector,” she said. “My favorite thing is seeing my friends make friends!”

That sense of connection is also what Yael values most about The Network.

“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,” she shared.

She also appreciates the support she receives when planning gatherings. The Network’s focus on Jewish life and values is meaningful to her, too. Most of all, she values the people she meets along the way.

Finding Jewish Community in Baltimore

Yael was born and raised in Baltimore. She grew up in Owings Mills and now lives in Canton, where she loves being close to the water.

For anyone new to Baltimore, Yael’s advice is simple: reach out.

“When in doubt, reach out!” she said. “Go to the event, reach out to that person you met to get coffee and just be open-minded.”

Yael knows that walking into a new space can feel intimidating. At the same time, she has seen how welcoming the community can be.

“At some point, everyone has felt this way,” Yael said. “One of the things I love the most about this community is how welcoming everyone is and how much people want you to feel at home here.”

Life Outside of Work

When she isn’t working or connecting people, Yael enjoys staying active. Running, pickleball, hiking, boating and dancing are some of her favorite ways to spend her time.

She’s also currently watching The Resident on Netflix. For Yael, it feels a little like studying for work, just with much more drama.

Her connection to Israel is another important part of her life. Much of her family lives there, along with several of her closest friends. Since October 7, Yael has completed five volunteer trips to Israel.

Some of her favorite memories come from celebrating holidays with her extended family in Jerusalem.

“There are about 20 of my little cousins running around, and it’s the most special time of the year,” she shared.

Whether she’s hosting a gathering or meeting someone new for coffee, Yael enjoys bringing people together. As a Young Adult Connector, she continues to help others find friendship, Jewish experiences and a sense of belonging in Baltimore.

Connect with Yael!

Looking for new ways to get active, meet people and explore Baltimore? Yael connects young adults in their mid-20s to early 30s through activities like hikes, walks, local run clubs, Volo events, and more.

Ready to get connected? Reach out to Yael and find your next adventure!