The Heroes Profiles: Through a series of evocative portraits, we pay tribute to these heroes and inspire others to stand firm against hatred and injustice.
Noa Tishby
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Noa Tishby, a 2x NY Times best-selling author and Israel’s first Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism & Delegitimization. Noa has been a leader in pro-Israel activism for over a decade, co-founding and initiating several organizations and projects, including Act for Israel, Reality Israel and Eighteen: an institute to combat antisemitism defend Israel and inspire Jewish pride. She spoke at the Capitol for a Congressional Hearing on online antisemitism and testified in front of the Committee on Ways and Means about the connection between campus antisemitism and terrorism financing. Tishby also addressed members of Congress in a hearing exposing gender-based violence of the October 7th massacre. Tishby is one of the most recognizable faces fighting for Israel and the Jewish people, her content reaching millions on social and legacy media. Tishby is a proud Jewish mother to her son, Ari.
Jewelry by Rachie Shnay
Jacket by Kobi Halperin
The LionessSimon Aban Deng
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Simon Aban Deng, a human rights activist. From escaping enslavement in Sudan to leading the Sudan Freedom Walk, Simon has dedicated his life to fighting against modern-day slavery, genocide, and injustice. He is also the co-founder of the African-Jewish Alliance, working to strengthen the historic bond between African and Jewish communities. In the wake of October 7, he traveled to Israel, standing in solidarity with the Jewish people, marching from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, and meeting with victims’ families. His unwavering advocacy reminds us all of the power of resilience and moral courage.
Defender of FreedomSuper Spokespersoneylon levy
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Eylon Levy, whose eloquence and resolve have made him a leading advocate for Israel during the October 7 War. A former Israeli Government Spokesman and lone soldier, Eylon’s journey from the UK to Israel reflects his deep commitment to the Jewish homeland. Eylon is currently heading the Spokesoffice.
Hasbara UnicornBellamy Belucci
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Bellamy Bellucci whose boldness and unapologetic truth shine through in every step. A world renowned former dancer, teacher, and model, Bellamy’s journey from performing all over the world to confronting the challenges of being proudly Jewish demonstrates the resilience of a woman who refuses to hide her soul. Despite the difficulties, Bellamy stands firm in her love for Israel, proving that authenticity and identity are worth fighting for.
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
Millinery by Mari O’Connor
Truth EnvoySarah Williamson
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Sarah Williamson—an acclaimed Australian journalist based in New York who specializes in conflict reporting, foreign policy, and geopolitics. After spending five years working in Israel, she has extensive knowledge of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, having reported from multiple fronts, including Gaza and the West Bank. Sarah is recognized for consistently delivering frontline reports from global hotspots, including the war in Ukraine. She is a proud Zionist and actively combats antisemitism and anti-Israel bias.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Matthew Hayimov
Moral Clarity ChampionCongressman Ritchie Torres
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we spotlight Congressman Ritchie Torres, a rising Democratic leader whose support for Israel is rooted in firsthand understanding and moral clarity. Raised in the Bronx with little exposure to Israel, a 2014 trip with the Jewish Community Relations Council changed everything. Visiting sites like Yad Vashem and the Gaza border, he gained a deep appreciation for Israel’s challenges and resilience. Now a vocal ally, Ritchie encourages others to move beyond headlines and seek the full picture. In a divided political climate, he leads with empathy, courage, and conviction.
Power AllyDaniel Ryan Spalding
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we spotlight heroes like Daniel-Ryan Spaulding, whose journey took an unexpected turn toward advocacy and activism. A comedian and writer, Daniel’s viral videos after October 7th propelled him into New York City’s cultural and political spheres, where he now speaks boldly for Israel and against extremism.
From personal transformation to public influence, Daniel’s voice resonates with humor, honesty, and unwavering conviction.
Millinery by Mari O’Connor
Title VI TitanAdela Cojab
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor heroes like Adela Cojab, a Syrian-Lebanese Jewish author, legal advocate, and media contributor recognized for her commitment to protecting Jewish rights and addressing antisemitism in academic institutions. She holds a J.D. from Cardozo School of Law and a B.A. from NYU, where she became nationally known for filing a groundbreaking Title VI complaint against NYU for campus antisemitism. Adela is now a Legal Fellow at the National Jewish Advocacy Center, where she supports litigation and policy efforts to safeguard Jewish civil rights. Her work has been featured across major news outlets across the U.S., Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, earning her multiple awards and designations in the advocacy space. Most recently, Adela testified at the US Senate Judiciary Hearing on Antisemitism and later took her activism to the women’s empowerment space, competing in Miss Universe Israel and placing third as Miss Tel Aviv of 2025.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Millinery by Mari O’Connor
She Who Returned From Captivity with TruthMoran Stela Yanai
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor Moran Stela Yanai, an Israeli artist whose talent is as bold as her spirit. Known for blending natural elements like stones and metals, her work embodies strength and elegance. On October 7 2023, while showcasing her pieces at the Nova music festival, Moran was kidnapped by Hamas and held hostage in Gaza for 54 days. Despite enduring profound torment, Moran’s resilience never faltered. Since her release, she has used her voice to advocate for the remaining hostages and shine a light on the truth. Her courage and creativity continue to inspire a world that must not look away.
Independent & resilientBatsheva Haart
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Batsheva Haart, a lifestyle creator, speaker, and advocate who uses her voice to celebrate Jewish pride and authenticity. Known for her appearance on Netflix’s My Unorthodox Life, Batsheva has shared her personal journey from an ultra-Orthodox upbringing to a life of self-expression and empowerment. While embracing a modern path, she remains deeply connected to her Jewish identity—using her platforms to combat antisemitism, uplift others, and remind the world that faith and freedom can coexist. Through her creativity and courage, Batsheva continues to inspire others to live proudly and without fear.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Chaya Shasha
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
Echo of Two HomelandsJonathan Nizar Elkhoury
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes
like Jonathan Nizar Elkhoury, an Israeli-Lebanese Christian and LGBTQ+ rights advocate dedicated to amplifying the voices of Israel’s diverse minority communities. Jonathan and his family fled Hezbollah’s takeover of South Lebanon and found refuge in Israel—a country he now proudly represents on the world stage. As the founder of the Minorities Project with DiploAct, Jonathan empowers Christians, Muslims, Druze, and Bedouins to share their stories of integration and success in Israeli society. A former spokesperson for the Christian Empowerment Council, he has long championed inclusion, national service, and civic engagement among minority youth. Recognized by The Jerusalem Post and JNF USA as one of the world’s “25 Young Visionaries,” Jonathan continues to use his voice—through media, public diplomacy, and education—to challenge misconceptions and build bridges of understanding.
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
Self Loving JewYohay Sponder
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we spotlight heroes who fearlessly stand for truth in a world often clouded by misinformation and bias. Yohay Sponder brings humor, smart wit, and unapologetic confidence to the conversation, showing us the power of self-love, identity, and faith in the face of adversity. In times when the world feels divided,Yohay believes laughter is the ultimate cure—because healing starts within.
National SpokespersonMaya bentwich
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor leaders like Maya Bentwich—fearless, strategic, and unwavering in her mission to defend truth. A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and trusted figure in Israeli public diplomacy, Maya rose to action in the wake of October 7th, trading comfort for conviction. Enlisting in the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit as a reservist, she led over 100 international delegations to the heart of Israel’s southern devastation, guiding world leaders through the ruins with strength and grace. From global media stages to presidential councils, Maya’s voice carries the weight of a nation defending its values on the battlefield of public opinion. In every word she speaks, she reminds us: silence is not an option, and truth is worth the fight.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Resilience ArchitectSagi Dovev
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Sagi Dovev, a Major (Res.) in Israel’s elite Sayeret Matkal unit, former European Jiu-Jitsu champion, and head Krav Maga trainer for IDF special forces. Since October 7, 2023, Sagi has led a groundbreaking rehabilitation initiative at Sheba Medical Center, helping wounded soldiers — many amputees — and released hostages reclaim their strength, identity, and warrior spirit. His method fuses combat training, psychological resilience, and deep personal mentorship, transforming trauma into triumph. In 2025, he was honored with the Israeli Health Minister’s Award for Outstanding Volunteerism, recognizing his tireless work and life-changing impact. Sagi lectures globally, sharing raw stories of courage and recovery, and continues to build a movement of healing, pride, and purpose.
Unapologetic InnovatorMiriam Haart
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Miriam Haart, whose innovation and advocacy redefine what it means to lead with purpose. A tech entrepreneur, TED Speaker, Netflix star, and outspoken activist, Miriam uses her platform to champion Jewish and Middle Eastern causes while inspiring a new generation of women in tech. From Stanford lecture halls to award-winning app development, Miriam’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and unapologetic pride.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Chaya Shasha
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
Visionary WarriorDr. Einat Wilf
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we spotlight heroes like Dr. Einat Wilf who is a leading thinker on Israel, Zionism, foreign policy and education. She was a member of the Israeli Parliament from 2010 to 2013, where she served as Chair of the Education Committee and Member of the influential Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. Born and raised in Israel, Dr. Wilf served as an Intelligence Officer in the Israel Defense Forces, Foreign Policy Advisor to Vice Prime Minister Shimon Peres and a strategic consultant with McKinsey & Company.
Dr. Wilf is the author of seven books that explore key issues in Israeli society. “We Should All Be Zionists“, published in 2022, brings together her essays from the past four years on Israel, Zionism and the path to peace; the co-authored “The War of Return: How Western Indulgence of the Palestinian Dream Has Obstructed the Path to Peace”, was published in 2020.
I’m That JewEitan Chitayat
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we spotlight heroes like Eitan Chitayat, a seasoned brand-builder and founder of the Natie Branding Agency in Tel Aviv that’s been delivering world-class brands for over 25 years. He created the viral film I’m That Jew, viewed over 15 million times and exhibited at the Museum of the Jewish People. His broader advocacy work to strengthen Jewish identity has amassed almost 300 million views across social media. A TEDx speaker, Eitan shared the story behind his impactful work and today continues to build on that vision through the I’m That Jew movement, a global effort to inspire Jews to embrace and own their story.
Resilience ChampionSami Steigmann
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Sami Steigmann who has lived many lives. As a child, he survived the Holocaust—enduring unimaginable cruelty and emerging as a living testament to resilience. From victim to survivor to educator to IDF soldier, Sami has transformed his pain into purpose. Today, as a motivational speaker, he dedicates his life to educating others about the dangers of hatred and indifference. Through his talks across the world, Sami reaches people of all ages with a message of hope, courage, and responsibility. His words echo with timeless urgency: “Never give up. Never lose hope. Never be a perpetrator. And above all, never be a bystander.” Sami reminds us that the Holocaust—and every genocide—happened because too many stood silent. His life is a call to action: to choose empathy, to act with courage, and to be part of the solution.
Justice WarriorStav Cohen
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor heroes like Stav Cohen, an IDF Special Forces soldier, international speaker, and attorney who brings the realities of the battlefield to global audiences. With over twelve years of service and hundreds of highly complex missions, he shares firsthand stories of bravery, sacrifice, and his core belief that quitting is never an option. The grandson of an Auschwitz survivor, Stav lives the promise of “Never Again,” honoring Holocaust memory through service and truth. While still actively serving, he speaks worldwide about Israel’s fight for survival—militarily, morally, and legally. With a law degree in international law, he addresses the ethics of modern warfare and explains Israel’s legal boundaries in conflicts across Gaza, Lebanon, and beyond. From campuses to community events, Stav offers a rare dual perspective—soldier and attorney—on Israel, regional threats, and the global battle for truth.
Unorthodox visionaryJulia Haart
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor heroes like Julia Haart, a visionary leader and outspoken activist, who transformed her journey from an ultra-Orthodox upbringing to global influence as an entrepreneur, fashion innovator, and media personality. After building billion-dollar brands and starring in the hit Netflix series My Unorthodox Life, she launched +Body by Julia Haart to empower women with confidence-boosting designs. Beyond business, Haart is a powerful voice for Jewish activism, especially following the October 7th Hamas attacks. She traveled to Israel, met with leaders, and accompanied an IDF unit into Gaza to bear witness to the conflict. Through her platform and her initiative Ahm Nation, she combats online antisemitism, highlights Israel’s diversity, and counters misinformation about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Her activism extends worldwide—from delivering aid in Ukraine to advocating for women’s rights in Rwanda and Iran—cementing her legacy as a champion of courage, empowerment, and transformation.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Chaya Shasha
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
Truth VisionaryYoav Davis
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Yoav Davis, a creative visionary, storyteller, and proud Jewish advocate whose work bridges media, identity, purpose. The content he directs has been seen by billions throughout the world. Born to Jewish American parents and raised in South Africa and Israel, Yoav began his career in the IDF Spokesperson’s Special Unit, leading a 24/7 war room during times of conflict. As the founder of Davis Media, Yoav has worked, directed and collaborated with major brands and global icons, using creativity as a force for connection and truth. In 2017, he launched Jews of NY, the largest online platform celebrating Jewish life in New York, now reaching millions across the globe. Through his public speaking, panels, and advocacy, Yoav continues to champion Jewish pride and fight antisemitism online proving that storytelling can be both art and activism.
Funny because it’s true!Elon Gold
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Elon Gold, an acclaimed comedian and writer whose routines have gone viral shared by millions around the world. Known for his sharp wit and unapologetic Jewish pride, Elon uses humor as a spotlight to confront falsehoods with truth and laughter. His comedy tackles the lies and hypocrisy often aimed at the Jewish state, harnessing the power of comedy to entertain, heal and educate. Since the Hamas attack in 2023, Elon has traveled to Israel multiple times, standing with its people and reminding audiences everywhere that laughter can be an act of courage.
Moshiach EnergyModi rosenfeld
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate Modi, a Tel Aviv–born, New York–raised comedian whose sharp wit and cultural fluency have made him one of the most beloved figures in the Jewish comedy world and beyond. Voted one of New York’s top 10 comedians by The Hollywood Reporter, Modi’s signature style blends keen observational humor with deep roots in Jewish identity. Modi continues to uplift and connect audiences through laughter, insight, and authenticity. In recognition of his artistic contributions, June 26th 2019 was officially declared “Mordechi ‘Modi’ Rosenfeld Day” in New York City—a fitting honor for a performer whose presence is both joyful and unforgettable.
Grace Under FireNoa Cochva
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor Noa Cochva, a former Miss Israel and combat medic whose life reflects strength, service, and purpose. After serving as a medic commander in the IDF, Noa gained national recognition in 2021 and represented Israel on the world stage. But when Hamas attacked on October 7th, 2023, she returned to uniform, joining 400,000 reservists and serving for five months at the Gaza border. There, she upheld her oath to save lives—regardless of race, religion, or nationality. Today, Noa advocates globally for Israel and the IDF, shedding light on Hamas’s crimes and empowering women through her unwavering example.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Chaya Shasha
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
The Z FactorTanya Zuckerbrot
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Tanya Zuckerbrot, a renowned dietitian and founder of the F-Factor program, celebrated for transforming the world of health and nutrition. For decades, she has been a trusted voice on national media, bestselling author, and advisor to global organizations. But since October 7, Tanya has turned her platform toward a higher calling: advocating for Israel and bearing witness to truth. Traveling to Israel with Friends of the IDF, she saw firsthand the aftermath of Hamas’ atrocities. Determined to counter denial and distortion, she now uses her voice to document, share, and ensure the world never forgets. Tanya stands as a powerful example of courage—shifting from healing bodies to defending truth itself.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Matthew Hayimov
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
The ArabistZvi Yehezkeli
Zvi Yehezkeli is an Israeli journalist, former IDF Special Forces soldier, and veteran of the Shin Bet. Born in Jerusalem to Iraqi-Jewish parents, he has dedicated his career to uncovering the realities of the Arab world and exposing threats to Israel and the West. After years of undercover work and academic study in Middle Eastern affairs, Yehezkeli became the head of the Arab Affairs Desk at Israel’s Channel 13 News. Zvi has taken bold steps—going undercover in Europe to expose radicalization, infiltrating Islamist networks under disguise, and speaking truths many feared to hear. Long before October 7th, Yehezkeli was one of the few voices warning that Hamas had not abandoned its goal of Israel’s destruction. Today, he continues to bring clarity to chaos, explaining the Middle East with depth, honesty, and fearless conviction.
Justice TrailblazerShabbos Kestenbaum
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we highlight heroes like Shabbos Kestenbaum, whose courage and conviction inspire change on a global scale. As a student activist and the lead plaintiff against Harvard University, Shabbos confronts systemic antisemitism head-on, standing as a voice for justice and equality. From testifying before Congress to lecturing internationally, his relentless advocacy proves that one person can spark a movement, redefining what it means to lead with purpose and pride.
Heart ConnectorMelissa Chapman
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Melissa Chapman who was raised in a Modern Orthodox home. At 16, she joined the Chetz V’Keshet program in Israel, living and training alongside IDF soldiers—a formative experience that cemented her lifelong commitment to the Jewish people and their homeland. Melissa went on to become a freelance writer and editor, authoring a weekly column for the Staten Island Advance, later launching her own blog. After October 7th, as antisemitism surged, Melissa became an outspoken advocate for Israel, even at the cost of losing professional contracts. Determined to strengthen Jewish unity, she recently founded a dating platform to connect singles who share a love for Israel and Jewish values. Melissa’s voice remains steadfast—unafraid, unwavering, and guided by truth.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Matthew Hayimov
Petite PowerhouseLizzy Savetsky
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Lizzy Savetsky, whose fierce advocacy for the Jewish people and the State of Israel has made a significant impact. As a dynamic social media personality and public speaker, Lizzy uses her platform to combat antisemitism, elevate Jewish causes,
and speak truth to power. Her passion and determination prove that size is no measure of strength—her voice is as mighty as her mission to fight hate and promote unity.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Matthew Hayimov
Light SeekerShye Klein
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate heroes like Shye, a Canadian-Israeli photographer and public speaker whose journey embodies resilience and rediscovery. Born in Toronto, he made Aliyah in 2023, seeking connection and purpose. At the Nova music festival on October 7, Shye survived the Hamas attack and instinctively documented the horror as it unfolded—turning trauma into testimony. Since then, he has spoken in over 230 cities, sharing his story with tens of thousands and using his lens to preserve truth and humanity. Through his project Beyond The Supernova, Shye re-humanizes survivors of the Nova Festival, capturing not only their pain but their enduring light.
Presenting HerzlDavid MATLOW
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we spotlight heroes like David Matlow who is the proud owner of the world’s largest private collection of Theodor Herzl memorabilia—over 6,000 items that bring the father of modern Zionism to life. Through The Herzl Project, which he founded, David shares these artifacts to illuminate Herzl’s vision of a Jewish homeland and to inspire future generations to carry it forward. His work reaches wide audiences through his weekly Treasure Trove column in the Canadian Jewish News, exhibits across North America, frequent podcast appearances, “Herzl Break” posts on social media, and his digital archive at www.herzlcollection.
Healing HandsDr. Ira Savetsky
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor heroes like Dr. Ira L. Savetsky, a renowned plastic surgeon whose expertise spans some of the most advanced aesthetic and reconstructive procedures in the world. Trained at top medical institutions, including NYU’s Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery and the Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute, he is recognized as a leader in his field. In the wake of Hamas’ October 7th attack, Dr. Savetsky began offering free plastic surgery to victims of antisemitic hate crimes and survivors of terror, helping them heal not only physically but emotionally. With compassion and skill, he transforms pain into resilience, restoring dignity to those who have suffered.
Grooming by Gabriella Golan
Hair by Matthew Hayimov
Styling by Albert Ruzayev
Modern MacabeeNoy Leyb
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor heroes like Noy Leyb, an IDF reservist who got on the first flight from New York to Israel on October 7th to rejoin his elite commando unit. Since then, he has spent over 300 days on the front lines in Gaza and Lebanon. Today, Noy leads Strong Voices for Israel, an organization that brings IDF soldiers and October 7th survivors to allied communities to share their firsthand testimonies and strengthen their connection to Israel. He also educates over 50,000 followers online about misinformation and what war looks like from the inside.
Fearless AdvocateTessa Veksler
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we celebrate Tessa Veksler, a fearless leader and advocate who has devoted her life to standing up for truth, justice, and Jewish identity. From her gap year in Israel to becoming UCSB’s first-ever Shabbat-observant Student Body President, Tessa has faced adversity head-on, using her platform to combat antisemitism and advocate for Israel with unwavering courage. Whether leading as a student government president, sharing her story through social media with millions of views, or speaking at national events, Tessa continues to inspire with her resilience and dedication to activism, reminding us all to speak out, stand strong, and fight for what’s right.
Makeup by Gabriella Golan
Resilient WitnessAtir Vinnikov
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor Atir Vinnikov — a survivor, soldier, and bridge between worlds. Born to Israeli emissaries, Atir spent his childhood among Jewish communities in New York before returning to Israel at 16, where his identity and purpose took root. On October 7th, Atir survived the Nova Music Festival massacre, saved by the bravery of a Bedouin Muslim who risked his own life to protect others — a testament to humanity beyond borders. The very next day, Atir put his uniform back on, joining thousands who rose to defend their people. His life is a living story of resilience, gratitude, and unwavering responsibility to his nation.
Steadfast GuardianDarren Glick
Through Limor Garfinkle’s lens, we honor Darren Glick—a steadfast advocate for Jewish security, education, and resilience. As Director of the Sammy Farkas Foundation, co-founder of Guardian Self Defense, and Senior Editor at White Rose Magazine, Darren has spent years strengthening Jewish communities through aid, training, and truth-telling. The grandson of Holocaust survivors, he continues their legacy by supporting Israeli schools, injured soldiers, and organizing security for pro-Israel events. On October 7th, Darren was in Jerusalem. Rather than leave, he stayed for over five months to help however he could. That day solidified his mission: to protect, educate, and ensure the next generation stands ready and unafraid.