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Thursday, February 27 – Sunday, March 2, 2025
SPEAKERS
Montana Tucker
With almost 14 million combined followers, across her social media platforms, the majority being the Gen Z population, award winning actress, singer, dancer, philanthropist, and social media activist, Montana Tucker, empowers from every angle. She has been modeling and acting since she was 9 years old. As a singer, she has had her songs featured in blockbuster movies, and as an actress, she has been in award winning TV shows and featured in several movies, but Montana’s passion has always been to combat Anti-Semitism, as well as all forms of hate and to educate people to love others for their kind hearts and souls and not because of their color, race, sexual preference or religion. She has been honored by numerous organizations and businesses. Just recently, Magen David Adom and Hatzalah honored Montana for her contiued work in helping Israel. She received special honors and awards from The National Holocaust Museum, Artists 4 Israel, Auschwitz Jewish Foundation, International Influencer Awards, amongst many others.
Montana garnered acclaim for her educational online Docu-Series, “How To: Never Forget”. For this project, Montana traveled to Poland with her mother, Michelle. The emotional journey culminated with a 10-part Docu Series, that Tucker posted on her social media channels last fall. The series ends with a visit to Auschwitz, where all 4 of Montana’s great grandparents were murdered and her grandmother Lilly survived. In April, her series was nominated for a Webby Award. Due to the series' success, she was on Good Morning America, Extra TV, The Kelly Clarkson Show and has been interviewed on numerous International and National news outlets. She also has been featured in Variety and Forbes.
Montana has truly become a household name in the Jewish community. She had the honor to emcee the 75th Anniversary of Israel reception with over 2000 “invite only” VIP guests and dignitaries, which was put on by Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog. VP Kamala Harris was the special guest speaker. Montana was also invited by the National Holocaust Museum in Washington, to attend as a VIP guest at the Capitol Building to honor Holocaust survivors and the liberators of the Holocaust. Later in the evening, Montana was a guest speaker at the VIP reception for the 30th Anniversary of the US Holocaust Museum. She recently headlined the March for Israel Rally in Washington DC, and was the guest speaker for the National Menorah Lighting in Washington this past Hanukkah. This past December, Montana also went to Israel and met with President Herzog, as well as released hostages, survivors of Nova Music Festival, and survivors of the kibbutzes. She also was given a private tour of kibbutz Kafar Azar, which was brutally attacked by the terrorist group, Hamas.
Montana gained additional fame, when she wore on the red carpet, at the 2024 Grammys, a corset gown adorned with an oversized yellow ribbon, emblazoned with "Bring Them Home."
Montana continues to be one of the strongest voices and leaders to combat Anti-Semitism that reaches our Gen Z population.
Montana garnered acclaim for her educational online Docu-Series, “How To: Never Forget”. For this project, Montana traveled to Poland with her mother, Michelle. The emotional journey culminated with a 10-part Docu Series, that Tucker posted on her social media channels last fall. The series ends with a visit to Auschwitz, where all 4 of Montana’s great grandparents were murdered and her grandmother Lilly survived. In April, her series was nominated for a Webby Award. Due to the series' success, she was on Good Morning America, Extra TV, The Kelly Clarkson Show and has been interviewed on numerous International and National news outlets. She also has been featured in Variety and Forbes.
Montana has truly become a household name in the Jewish community. She had the honor to emcee the 75th Anniversary of Israel reception with over 2000 “invite only” VIP guests and dignitaries, which was put on by Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog. VP Kamala Harris was the special guest speaker. Montana was also invited by the National Holocaust Museum in Washington, to attend as a VIP guest at the Capitol Building to honor Holocaust survivors and the liberators of the Holocaust. Later in the evening, Montana was a guest speaker at the VIP reception for the 30th Anniversary of the US Holocaust Museum. She recently headlined the March for Israel Rally in Washington DC, and was the guest speaker for the National Menorah Lighting in Washington this past Hanukkah. This past December, Montana also went to Israel and met with President Herzog, as well as released hostages, survivors of Nova Music Festival, and survivors of the kibbutzes. She also was given a private tour of kibbutz Kafar Azar, which was brutally attacked by the terrorist group, Hamas.
Montana gained additional fame, when she wore on the red carpet, at the 2024 Grammys, a corset gown adorned with an oversized yellow ribbon, emblazoned with "Bring Them Home."
Montana continues to be one of the strongest voices and leaders to combat Anti-Semitism that reaches our Gen Z population.
Zach Sage Fox
Zach Sage Fox is a Philadelphia native turned YouTube sensation by high school, which then quickly landed him a development deal with the Disney Channel at just 17 years old. He went on to create two shows for the network in Los Angeles, where he then started a production company. Their studio relocated back east when Fox attended the University of Pennsylvania, where Fox studied film and political communication. While a junior at Penn he made his first feature film, which he wrote, starred in a directed before selling to Hulu, followed up by another hit with Amazon Prime.
In the years since his business has become an NYC multimedia empire both known for its award-winning film and TV division, where he's sold, written, directed, produced, and starred in, projects for TLC, Amazon and HBO MAX; as well as pioneered the new world of viral video and meme marketing with juggernaut brand partners like goPuff, Kickstarter, What Do You Meme?, Pioneer, Bud Light, MTV, Bloomberg and more. On social media Fox has millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram where his videos on mental health, voting, and combatting anti-semitism have made him an actor turned viral activist, racking up billions of views for brands and non-profits alike. He has a musical in development too.
Since October 7th, he has spearheaded and been the star of “Facts for Peace,” a social media initiative backed by Jewish titans of business, where his studio’s viral videos combatting Hamas propaganda and antisemitism have racked up well over a billion views and impressions, and have even been featured by the Israeli government, United Nations, and most recently the US Congress during it’s hearing on college antisemitism with his global journalistic sensations, “Gaza Graduation” and the “Wild West Bank.
In the years since his business has become an NYC multimedia empire both known for its award-winning film and TV division, where he's sold, written, directed, produced, and starred in, projects for TLC, Amazon and HBO MAX; as well as pioneered the new world of viral video and meme marketing with juggernaut brand partners like goPuff, Kickstarter, What Do You Meme?, Pioneer, Bud Light, MTV, Bloomberg and more. On social media Fox has millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram where his videos on mental health, voting, and combatting anti-semitism have made him an actor turned viral activist, racking up billions of views for brands and non-profits alike. He has a musical in development too.
Since October 7th, he has spearheaded and been the star of “Facts for Peace,” a social media initiative backed by Jewish titans of business, where his studio’s viral videos combatting Hamas propaganda and antisemitism have racked up well over a billion views and impressions, and have even been featured by the Israeli government, United Nations, and most recently the US Congress during it’s hearing on college antisemitism with his global journalistic sensations, “Gaza Graduation” and the “Wild West Bank.
Luai Ahmed
Luai Ahmed is a 31-year old Yemeni journalist and content creator. He was born and raised in the capital of Sanaa, and moved to Sweden when he was 20 years old in 2014 where he has been living since. He worked as a columnist and journalist at the local Swedish newspaper Bulletin where he focused on integration, migration, and radical Islam. In 2024, and after he started making content in English, he started working as a host for Builders of the Middle East, an online content hub that fosters interfaith kinship, and fights extremism, radicalization, fake news, antisemitism, and racism on the internet.
Dan Ahdoot
Dan Ahdoot is a multifaceted standup comedian, actor, writer, and producer with roots in New York City and Los Angeles. A national headliner, Dan is known for his regular appearances on The Tonight Show and his role in Netflix’s hit series Cobra Kai. His on-screen presence extends to acclaimed shows like Bajillion Dollar Propertie$ (NBC), Shameless (Showtime), Workaholics (Comedy Central), and Kickin’ It (Disney Channel).
Dan hosts his show on the Food Network, Raid The Fridge, and hosts the #1 food podcast in the country, Green Eggs and Dan. He is also the bestselling author of a comedic food memoir entitled Undercooked.
Dan hosts his show on the Food Network, Raid The Fridge, and hosts the #1 food podcast in the country, Green Eggs and Dan. He is also the bestselling author of a comedic food memoir entitled Undercooked.
Matthew Nouriel
Matthew Nouriel serves as the Community Engagement Director at JIMENA - Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa. Based in Los Angeles, California, Matthew is also a digital activist and content creator of Iranian Jewish heritage.
Matthew is a passionate advocate who uses their voice to champion various causes close to their heart, including LGBTQ+ rights and equality within the Iranian and Jewish communities, the fight against antisemitism, and their active support of the Women Life Freedom movement for a free Iran. They leverage their social media presence to connect with individuals who resonate with their unique perspective and lived experiences.
Matthew also actively engages with audiences through panel discussions and speaking engagements across the country. Their leadership roles extend to organizations such as JDC Entwine, JQ International, and the Tel Aviv Institute.
Matthew's written contributions have been featured in publications such as JNS, The Forward, and Hey Alma. They have also been profiled in media outlets including the Jewish Journal, Tehran Magazine, the Algemeiner, Jerusalem Post, and more. In recognition of their impactful work, Matthew received the TrailBlazer Award at the 2021 JQ International annual Impact Awards.
Matthew is a passionate advocate who uses their voice to champion various causes close to their heart, including LGBTQ+ rights and equality within the Iranian and Jewish communities, the fight against antisemitism, and their active support of the Women Life Freedom movement for a free Iran. They leverage their social media presence to connect with individuals who resonate with their unique perspective and lived experiences.
Matthew also actively engages with audiences through panel discussions and speaking engagements across the country. Their leadership roles extend to organizations such as JDC Entwine, JQ International, and the Tel Aviv Institute.
Matthew's written contributions have been featured in publications such as JNS, The Forward, and Hey Alma. They have also been profiled in media outlets including the Jewish Journal, Tehran Magazine, the Algemeiner, Jerusalem Post, and more. In recognition of their impactful work, Matthew received the TrailBlazer Award at the 2021 JQ International annual Impact Awards.
Adi Vaxman
Founder & President, Operation Israel
Adi is a seasoned executive with over three decades of experience in
operational efficiency and strategic growth, alongside a decades-long
commitment to Jewish community leadership. Holding a Ph.D. in
Organizational Leadership and an MBA from Cornell University, Adi has led
initiatives at Fortune 500 companies, tech startups, and global nonprofits,
specializing in scaling operations and implementing innovative solutions.
For over 25 years, Adi has been at the forefront of strengthening Jewish
identity and combating antisemitism. She led educational programs
promoting Jewish and Zionist values, and organized hundreds of events
fostering connections between Jewish-American and Israeli communities.
On October 7th 2023, Adi founded Operation Israel, an all-volunteer 501c3
that has raised over $9M to equip IDF soldiers with life-saving gear. This
initiative exemplifies her ability to mobilize resources and manage complex
operations in critical situations.
Adi is a sought-after speaker featured on national and global media outlets,
and a contributor to Forbes and Entrepreneur. Her unique perspective
makes her a powerful voice for both business and community leadership in
times of crisis.
operational efficiency and strategic growth, alongside a decades-long
commitment to Jewish community leadership. Holding a Ph.D. in
Organizational Leadership and an MBA from Cornell University, Adi has led
initiatives at Fortune 500 companies, tech startups, and global nonprofits,
specializing in scaling operations and implementing innovative solutions.
For over 25 years, Adi has been at the forefront of strengthening Jewish
identity and combating antisemitism. She led educational programs
promoting Jewish and Zionist values, and organized hundreds of events
fostering connections between Jewish-American and Israeli communities.
On October 7th 2023, Adi founded Operation Israel, an all-volunteer 501c3
that has raised over $9M to equip IDF soldiers with life-saving gear. This
initiative exemplifies her ability to mobilize resources and manage complex
operations in critical situations.
Adi is a sought-after speaker featured on national and global media outlets,
and a contributor to Forbes and Entrepreneur. Her unique perspective
makes her a powerful voice for both business and community leadership in
times of crisis.
Peter Paltchik
Peter Paltchik is an Israeli judo champion and Bronze medalist X2 from the Olympic games, widely recognized as one of Israel's top sports figures and the most decorated Judoka in Israel. He has represented Israel in numerous international competitions, including the Tokyo 2020 & Paris 2024 Olympics. Known for his dedication and sportsmanship, Paltchik has also served as an ambassador of Israeli sports, promoting values of resilience and excellence. Born in Ukraine and raised in Israel, he has become a symbol of national pride through his achievements on the global stage and his contributions to the Israeli sports community.
Baruch Apisdorf
Bucky is the CEO and co-founder of Let’s Do Something, one of the fastest-growing nonprofits in the Jewish world. Dedicated to defense, healing, and advocacy for Israel, Bucky has led the organization’s rapid expansion, driving impactful initiatives that make a tangible difference on the ground.
Daniel Braun
Daniel made Aliyah to Israel in 2017
and soon after became a track athlete
for the Israel National Team, and the
IDF. In 2019, Daniel started creating
content on social media and has since
amassed over five million followers.
Before October 7th, Daniel was a
proud activist for Israel, but after
October 7th, Daniel tuned all of his
content creation abilities into helping
his ancestral homeland and the Jewish
people.
and soon after became a track athlete
for the Israel National Team, and the
IDF. In 2019, Daniel started creating
content on social media and has since
amassed over five million followers.
Before October 7th, Daniel was a
proud activist for Israel, but after
October 7th, Daniel tuned all of his
content creation abilities into helping
his ancestral homeland and the Jewish
people.
Moshe Shear
Moshe Shear is the co-founder and CMO of “Let’s Do Something”. With his out of the box take on media, he has spearheaded LDS’s advocacy program reaching over 70M views online, inspiring thousands to “Do Something”.
Rich Ingram
Born in inner-city Chicago to young parents, Bourn Rich experienced his parents' breakup at a young age, leading him to take on the role of the man of the house. His childhood was filled with sports and immersion in the LA graffiti, hip-hop, and skateboarding scene. These early experiences deeply influence his art, which reflects his diverse interests and life experiences. Inspired by his mother's health struggles, he left college to care for her, finding solace and purpose in his art. Bourn Rich's work is a vibrant reflection of his unique perspective, with bright imagery that touches the soul. He dedicates his time to teaching art to at-risk youth worldwide, helping them envision a brighter future. Currently based in Los Angeles, he creates murals, canvas art, and street art that resonate with his life's journey.
Lorin Khizran
Lorin is a Druze-Israeli from the village of Yarka in northern Israel. She has been raised with a love for Israel and wants to share her experiences with people in the UK. A qualified nurse, Lorin found herself working around the clock at the Rambam Hospital’s surgical department in Haifa on October 7th, treating the wounded from the massacre. A graduate of the StandWithUs Israel Fellowship program and a skilled public speaker fluent in three languages, Lorin has developed a passion for standing up for Israel and against misinformation.
Fleur Hassan-Nahoum
Fleur grew up in Gibraltar and studied law at Kings College, London University. She qualified as a barrister in Middle Temple in 1997 and practiced in London before immigrating to Israel in 2001. In Israel she worked at JDC in resource development for Europe and later became the Executive Director of Tikva, a nonprofit organization saving abandoned and abused Jewish children from the Former Soviet Union. In 2011 she set up her own communications consulting business Message Experts and does consulting work for large corporation as well as nonprofit organizations on effective communication strategies. In May 2016 Fleur became a City Councilor in Jerusalem and in February 2017 the leader of the Opposition. In November 2018 Fleur was re-elected to the Jerusalem Municipal Council and was appointed Deputy Mayor for foreign relations economic development and tourism. Fleur is currently the only British politician in Israel and is involved in the advancement of women's rights and marginalized populations groups in the city, in economic development and the fight for a pluralistic Jerusalem. Fleur is also the Co Founder of the UAE-Israel Business Council and the Gulf Israel Women’s Forum
LTC. Res. Eyal Dror
Lt. Col. (Res.) Eyal Dror. Married with three children. Living in Kibbutz Dafna near the Israel-Lebanon border. He has 24 years of service in the IDF (+6 additional years in the reserves). A significant portion of his military service was dedicated to civilian and security coordination systems in the Palestinian arena.
Between 2016-2018, he established and commanded the biggest humanitarian aid operation in the history of the IDF – Operation "Good Neighbor" on the Israel-Syria border. Under his command, 700 humanitarian aid missions were carried out in areas controlled by ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Hezbollah. These missions provided hundreds of thousands of tons of humanitarian equipment to the Syrian population and facilitated medical treatment for thousands of Syrian civilians in Israeli hospitals.
Following his release from the military, Eyal authored his book, "Embracing the Enemy," which is currently being published in English. Since October 7th, Eyal was called up for extended reserve duty, from which he was recently released. During this time, he contributed to shaping the new reality on the Syrian front in light of the collapse of the Assad regime.
Eyal is a PhD candidate at the University of Haifa, focusing on inter-organizational collaboration and learning during times of crisis. He delivers lectures and talks in Israel and abroad to diverse audiences, both Jewish and non-Jewish. Additionally, he participates in security panels and occasionally writes security analyses, with an emphasis on the northern arena.
Between 2016-2018, he established and commanded the biggest humanitarian aid operation in the history of the IDF – Operation "Good Neighbor" on the Israel-Syria border. Under his command, 700 humanitarian aid missions were carried out in areas controlled by ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Hezbollah. These missions provided hundreds of thousands of tons of humanitarian equipment to the Syrian population and facilitated medical treatment for thousands of Syrian civilians in Israeli hospitals.
Following his release from the military, Eyal authored his book, "Embracing the Enemy," which is currently being published in English. Since October 7th, Eyal was called up for extended reserve duty, from which he was recently released. During this time, he contributed to shaping the new reality on the Syrian front in light of the collapse of the Assad regime.
Eyal is a PhD candidate at the University of Haifa, focusing on inter-organizational collaboration and learning during times of crisis. He delivers lectures and talks in Israel and abroad to diverse audiences, both Jewish and non-Jewish. Additionally, he participates in security panels and occasionally writes security analyses, with an emphasis on the northern arena.
BARAK
Meet BARAK, a trailblazing force in the realm of electro-pop music, whose journey from enchanting audiences in the IDF Military Band to becoming an iconic figure in Israel and a global sensation is nothing short of extraordinary. BARAK's charismatic voice and unique compositions have not only resonated with international listeners but have established him as a revolutionary artist and an LGBTQ icon. From electrifying performances across Europe, North America, South Africa, and the UK to his exploration of electronic music in Berlin, BARAK's musical odyssey reflects a fusion of diverse influences. As a solo artist, his successful singles, notably “Pleasure To Meet You,” the debut that captivated the LGBT community, and “MOOD,” a UK summer hit reaching #20 on the UK Club Chart, showcase his versatility and impact. BARAK's influence extends beyond music, marked by collaborations with renowned DJs worldwide and a special partnership with Axel Hotels, a testament to his advocacy for inclusivity. Currently working on a highly anticipated album set to release in the UK in 2024, BARAK stands as a musical luminary, leaving an indelible mark on the electro-pop landscape.
Jacki Karsh
Jacki Karsh is a six-time Emmy-nominated multimedia journalist. For over a decade, she has reported for LA36's LA County Channel, where her work shines a light on the social and humanitarian issues that shape the lives of Angelenos. Jacki’s reporting drives awareness and inspires change from in-depth coverage of the County-wide homelessness crisis to groundbreaking stories on scientific innovation, transformative infrastructure, and impactful community projects. Jacki also regularly contributes to digital platforms like The Westside Current and Business Rockstars, and she previously reported for Westside TV, CityTV Santa Monica, and Young Hollywood.
Beyond reporting, Jacki is a celebrated moderator and host, engaging with global audiences and high-profile figures across various fields— from military leaders like Generals Stanley McChrystal and David Petraeus, to public leaders like Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Eric Garcetti, to trailblazers in innovation and philanthropy like Tim Draper, Mike Milken, and Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, as well as cultural icons including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kyle Kuzma, Danny Trejo, and Mindy Kaling.
In the wake of the October 7th events, Jacki has been proactive in combating misinformation, leading over 45 in-depth discussions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, media bias, and Jewish activism. Her role has expanded to include hosting significant events for organizations such as the Milken Global Conference, Combat Antisemitism's Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism, AIPAC, Teach Coalition, FIDF, JFEDLA, JFNA, and many more. Notably, one of her interviews with Mosab Hassan Yousef, also known as the Green Prince, went viral, amassing over two million views.
Jacki serves on the boards of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and the Columbia Alumni Association of Southern California, and she is a key member of the JFEDLA's Israel Emergency Fund Special Committee. A graduate of Columbia University, where she earned both her bachelor's with honors and a master’s in broadcast journalism, Jacki recently established the Karsh Fellowship in Jewish Journalism. This program aims to nurture future journalists to cover Jewish issues with precision, fostering accurate representation of Jewish identity, Israel, and antisemitism in the media.
Beyond reporting, Jacki is a celebrated moderator and host, engaging with global audiences and high-profile figures across various fields— from military leaders like Generals Stanley McChrystal and David Petraeus, to public leaders like Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Eric Garcetti, to trailblazers in innovation and philanthropy like Tim Draper, Mike Milken, and Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, as well as cultural icons including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kyle Kuzma, Danny Trejo, and Mindy Kaling.
In the wake of the October 7th events, Jacki has been proactive in combating misinformation, leading over 45 in-depth discussions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, media bias, and Jewish activism. Her role has expanded to include hosting significant events for organizations such as the Milken Global Conference, Combat Antisemitism's Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism, AIPAC, Teach Coalition, FIDF, JFEDLA, JFNA, and many more. Notably, one of her interviews with Mosab Hassan Yousef, also known as the Green Prince, went viral, amassing over two million views.
Jacki serves on the boards of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and the Columbia Alumni Association of Southern California, and she is a key member of the JFEDLA's Israel Emergency Fund Special Committee. A graduate of Columbia University, where she earned both her bachelor's with honors and a master’s in broadcast journalism, Jacki recently established the Karsh Fellowship in Jewish Journalism. This program aims to nurture future journalists to cover Jewish issues with precision, fostering accurate representation of Jewish identity, Israel, and antisemitism in the media.
Natasha Hausdorff
Natasha is a sought-after keynote speaker on international law, foreign affairs and national security policy, with a particular focus on countering untrue narratives that have become widespread in current times. She regularly briefs politicians and international organisations and has spoken at Parliaments across Europe and at the United Nations. Natasha is a frequent contributor on legal matters for international media, including the BBC, Sky News, CNN, GB News, Talk TV and Fox and has written for publications including the Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph, The Times, The Mail and Law Society Gazette. She holds law degrees from Oxford and Tel Aviv Universities and was a Fellow in the National Security Law Programme at Columbia Law School in New York. Natasha previously worked for American law firm Skadden Arps, in London and Brussels, and clerked for the President of the Israeli Supreme Court, Chief Justice Miriam Naor, in Jerusalem. She serves as legal director of UK Lawyers for Israel Charitable Trust.
John Ondrasik
John Ondrasik, the songwriter and performer is known as the platinum-selling, Grammy-nominated, Five For Fighting. Recently, Ondrasik released the song, “OK,” along with a heart wrenching documentary music video that speaks to the Hamas attacks on Israel of Oct 7th, 2023, and the cultural aftermath both in the United States and around the world.
The “OK” (We Are Not OK) video has impacted globally with millions of streams. On April 13th, 2024 Ondrasik performed “OK” and “Superman” at “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv for hostage families, and the nation of Israel, hours before Iran launched its missile attack.
A Wall Street Journal feature headlined “A Lone Voice Sings for Israel” recognized Ondrasik as one of the few artists in the music industry to condemn Hamas and publicly call for the release of the hostages.
Say’s John, who is not Jewish, “Something’s deeply wrong in the culture when people can’t come out and say that what happened on Oct. 7 was evil. No context. No buts. How did we get to a place where our music stars can’t condemn pure atrocities?”
The “OK” (We Are Not OK) video has impacted globally with millions of streams. On April 13th, 2024 Ondrasik performed “OK” and “Superman” at “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv for hostage families, and the nation of Israel, hours before Iran launched its missile attack.
A Wall Street Journal feature headlined “A Lone Voice Sings for Israel” recognized Ondrasik as one of the few artists in the music industry to condemn Hamas and publicly call for the release of the hostages.
Say’s John, who is not Jewish, “Something’s deeply wrong in the culture when people can’t come out and say that what happened on Oct. 7 was evil. No context. No buts. How did we get to a place where our music stars can’t condemn pure atrocities?”
Shadi Martini, Chief Executive Officer
The Syrian war turned businessman, Shadi Martini, into a refugee, an activist, and an advocate for greater cooperation across faith and cultural lines.
In 2011, the Assad regime began prosecuting those who aided the opposition. His position as General Manager of his family’s hospital in Aleppo gave him a unique opportunity to help. Despite the threat to his safety, Martini, along with other brave colleagues, set up an underground network to care for the sick and wounded. When the operation was discovered in mid-2012 Martini was forced to flee Syria.
From his refuge in Bulgaria, Martini immediately founded the humanitarian Refugee Support Group, established European aid networks, and served as the NGO Sector Representative to the Bulgarian Government’s Crisis Committee – facilitating the resettlement of 30,000 Syrians in Bulgaria. In 2014, he relocated to the U.S. and soon organized two medical missions to support Syrians seeking refuge in Greece.
His actions attracted numerous faith-based organizations in the U.S. and abroad, which led to his involvement with the Multifaith Alliance (MFA), where he quickly rose to become its Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, MFA has provided over $550 million worth of aid to Syrian territories, northern Iraq, Lebanon, and Ukraine. These efforts have served over 2.5 million households and sustain the activities of dozens of hospitals, medical facilities, and camps.
The aid delivery model Martini developed – which leverages diverse partners to serve hard-to-reach areas – is now bringing essential supplies into Gaza, including food, clothing, hygiene and water sanitation kits, medicines and medical supplies, and shelter.
In 2011, the Assad regime began prosecuting those who aided the opposition. His position as General Manager of his family’s hospital in Aleppo gave him a unique opportunity to help. Despite the threat to his safety, Martini, along with other brave colleagues, set up an underground network to care for the sick and wounded. When the operation was discovered in mid-2012 Martini was forced to flee Syria.
From his refuge in Bulgaria, Martini immediately founded the humanitarian Refugee Support Group, established European aid networks, and served as the NGO Sector Representative to the Bulgarian Government’s Crisis Committee – facilitating the resettlement of 30,000 Syrians in Bulgaria. In 2014, he relocated to the U.S. and soon organized two medical missions to support Syrians seeking refuge in Greece.
His actions attracted numerous faith-based organizations in the U.S. and abroad, which led to his involvement with the Multifaith Alliance (MFA), where he quickly rose to become its Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, MFA has provided over $550 million worth of aid to Syrian territories, northern Iraq, Lebanon, and Ukraine. These efforts have served over 2.5 million households and sustain the activities of dozens of hospitals, medical facilities, and camps.
The aid delivery model Martini developed – which leverages diverse partners to serve hard-to-reach areas – is now bringing essential supplies into Gaza, including food, clothing, hygiene and water sanitation kits, medicines and medical supplies, and shelter.
Judea Pearl
Judea Pearl is a Chancellor Professor of computer science and the director of the UCLA Cognitive Systems Laboratory. He is known internationally for his contributions to artificial intelligence, human reasoning, and philosophy of science. Pearl is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a recipient of numerous scientific awards, including the 2012 Alan Turing Award. Dr. Pearl is the father of slain Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl and president of the Daniel Pearl Foundation www.danielpearl.org. With his wife, Ruth, he co-edited the book "I am Jewish: Personal Reflections Inspired by the Last Words of Daniel Pearl", winner of the 2004 National Jewish Book Award. Pearl writes a regular column in the Los Angeles Jewish Journal, focusing on Zionophobia, the Middle East conflict, and Israel's image on campus.
Michael Dickson
Michael Dickson is Executive Director of StandWithUs Israel. Michael leads a dynamic team at StandWithUs in Jerusalem which includes pioneering innovative Israel educational initiatives, running campaigns to counter discriminatory BDS boycotts of Israel, oversight of digital operations and hosting delegations of politicians, diplomats, academics and other people of influence in Israel. Born in the UK, Michael made Aliyah to Israel in 2006 from London as the Second Lebanon War ended, together with his wife and two young children – they now have five children and live in central Israel. Michael regularly addresses audiences and broadcasts on issues pertaining to Israel and public diplomacy. He is an accomplished writer, with many published articles, TV appearances and and is the author of the bestselling book: ISRESILIENCE — What Israelis Can Teach the World. Under Michael’s leadership, StandWithUs’s operation in Israel has grown exponentially, empowering people in Israel and internationally to be active advocates for Israel and countering efforts to impose commercial, academic and cultural boycotts on Israel. Michael oversaw the construction of the new StandWithUs Educational Center in Jerusalem, opposite the King David Hotel. The site hosts tens of thousands of students and tourists each year, participating in educational programs. Michael is a Senior Fellow at the Center for International Communication (CIC) of Bar Ilan University, is an Honorary member of Alpha Epsilon Pi, and was appointed to the Spectrum Forum of leading Executive Directors in Israel under the age of 40. He was named by JTA as the 14th most influential Jew on Twitter and also one of the “30 Israelis Making a Difference” by Channel 10 TV at a ceremony at the President of Israel’s Residence. Michael was cited in the Top 30 of "The Aliyah 100 List" of British immigrants to Israel, as one of the "flag bearers who shaped the state of Israel and made a significant contribution". In 2019, he won the prestigious “Bonei Zion” (“Builders of Zion”) Prize. Michael continues to be an energetic, influential and active voice for Israel to the world.
Roz Rothstein
Roz is a co-founder and CEO of StandWithUs. The daughter of Holocaust survivors, Rothstein and her husband Jerry, along with community leader Esther Renzer, sought to strengthen Israel’s image by empowering Israel’s supporters worldwide with innovative educational materials, conferences, fellowships, campaigns, missions to Israel, social media, educational videos, and programs. Since the inception of StandWithUs, the Forward has twice named Rothstein one of the 50 most influential Jews in America, and the Jerusalem Post has twice named her one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world.
Noa Raman
Noa Raman has built her career on empowering communities and fostering meaningful connections through education. Born in San Francisco to Israeli parents, she made Aliyah in 2018. She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from Lewis & Clark College and a master’s degree in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Aid from Tel Aviv University.
As the Director of Partnerships at StandWithUs, Noa spearheads initiatives that educate diverse audiences about Israel’s daily realities. She has been instrumental in establishing StandWithUs offices in South Africa, Australia, and the Netherlands, and has addressed over 15,000 participants worldwide on topics ranging from Israel education and Middle East history to humanitarian aid.
Recently, Noa has worked closely with survivors of the October 7th, 2023, Hamas massacre, including those who were at the Nova Festival, leading storytelling workshops to help participants reclaim their narratives and build resilience. In her free time, she practices yoga and teaches trauma-informed yoga classes.
As the Director of Partnerships at StandWithUs, Noa spearheads initiatives that educate diverse audiences about Israel’s daily realities. She has been instrumental in establishing StandWithUs offices in South Africa, Australia, and the Netherlands, and has addressed over 15,000 participants worldwide on topics ranging from Israel education and Middle East history to humanitarian aid.
Recently, Noa has worked closely with survivors of the October 7th, 2023, Hamas massacre, including those who were at the Nova Festival, leading storytelling workshops to help participants reclaim their narratives and build resilience. In her free time, she practices yoga and teaches trauma-informed yoga classes.
Noah Shufutinsky
Noah Shufutinsky is a Jewish educator, lecturer, and musician. As a graduate of The George Washington University where he earned his BA in Judaic Studies, he was heavily involved in Jewish life and Zionist activism. Noah is also known by his stage name, Westside Gravy. As an artist he fuses his passion for Jewish culture and history with his lived experience of growing up Black and Jewish across the US to write and produce hip hop. As an educator with StandWithUs he speaks about topics regarding Israeli and Jewish history, connection to the homeland, and how antisemitism affects Jewish people around the world.
Neil Lazarus
Neil Lazarus is an internationally acclaimed commentator and educator in the fields of Middle East politics, public diplomacy and effective communication training.
Neil addresses over 30,000 people a year both in Israel and internationally.
He has emerged as one of Israel's leading keynote speakers. His presentations are motivating, informative and challenging.
Neil addresses over 30,000 people a year both in Israel and internationally.
He has emerged as one of Israel's leading keynote speakers. His presentations are motivating, informative and challenging.
ACCESSIBILITY
The conference sessions will include closed captioning services. If you plan to utilize these resources or need additional resources, or for any other questions, please email events@standwithus.com
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