Rabbi Hillel Athias-Robles brings a Latin American flavour to Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue, which he joined this week.

The 29-year-old grew up in Costa Rica and gained semichah in Israel. Previously involved in the Sephardi community, he switched to Liberal Judaism because he felt it better reflected his interests.

He has been mentored by Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich and has been working with the movement’s outreach department.

Rabbi Athias-Robles will become Northwood and Pinner’s assistant minister in August, when Rabbi Aaron Goldstein succeeds his father, Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein, in the senior post.

Rabbi Aaron Goldstein told the JC that Rabbi Athias-Robles was joining early “to benefit from my dad’s experience and so that he can hit the ground running in August. He will influence us greatly in social work and interfaith activities and will work to establish projects for young people.”

For his part, Rabbi Athias-Robles said “Aaron is incredible to work with. I’m excited about taking on this role.”