2025 Speakers
2025 Topics Covered
Supporters of JAS 2025
Sponsors
Bill Maher, host of HBO’s Real Time for over 20 years and formerly Politically Incorrect, has been a defining voice in political comedy for more than 25 years. With 42 Emmy nominations and one win as executive producer of VICE, he’s also a bestselling author and filmmaker (Religulous). His podcast Club Random debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts. Maher continues to perform nationwide stand-up, with 13 HBO specials, while shaping political and cultural conversations.
John Fetterman has served as U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania since 2023. Previously mayor of Braddock (2006–2019) and Pennsylvania’s Lieutenant Governor (2019–2023), he has dedicated his career to fighting for forgotten communities. Inspired by his GED students to enter public service, he worked to create jobs, reduce gun violence, and revitalize Braddock. As Senator, he champions economic justice, criminal justice reform, equal protection, and is a strong supporter of Israel and Jewish community organizations.
Montana Tucker is an award-winning actress, singer, dancer, and social media activist with nearly 14 million followers, primarily Gen Z. A passionate advocate against antisemitism and hate, she has been honored by leading organizations including FIDF, IAC, Magen David Adom, and WIZO, as well as by NYC Mayor Eric Adams and the City of Beverly Hills. Her acclaimed docu-series How To: Never Forget, chronicling her family’s Holocaust history, earned a Webby Award nomination and widespread media coverage. Featured on Good Morning America, CNN, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Variety, and Forbes, Montana continues to educate and inspire worldwide.
General Yoav Gallant has devoted nearly five decades to Israel’s security, most recently serving as Minister of Defense during one of the nation’s most challenging crises. A decorated IDF veteran, he commanded elite units including Shayetet 13, the Gaza Division, and the Southern Command, and served as Military Secretary to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. After retiring as Major General, he held senior ministerial roles and co-founded FIDF’s IMPACT Scholarship Program, advancing education for IDF veterans.
Matisyahu is a world-renowned artist whose music blends reggae, hip hop, and rock with deep spiritual themes. For over 20 years, he has brought Jewish identity, mysticism, and faith into the global spotlight, inspiring audiences with his authenticity and message of redemption. With eight studio albums, including his latest Ancient Child, Matisyahu continues to explore Jewish history, spirituality, and unity, using music as a bridge between tradition and the modern world.
Shabbos Kestenbaum is a PragerU political commentator and student activist known for his landmark lawsuit against Harvard University. He is a regular contributor on national media, has testified multiple times in front of the United States Congress as well as the Israeli Knesset, and lectures internationally on American politics and Jewish communal issues.
Mayor Sharona Nazarian, PsyD, elected to the Beverly Hills City Council in 2022, is the first Iranian American woman to serve as Mayor (2025–2026). A lifelong resident and community leader, she champions public safety, unity, business innovation, and inclusivity. An outspoken advocate against antisemitism, she has launched initiatives like BHPD Live Link, BH Fire Watch, and Never Again Is Now. Mayor Nazarian also promotes mental health, cultural celebration, and bridge-building.
Rising to fame in the early 1980s, Rebecca De Mornay’s screen debut was in the classic film “Risky Business,” in which she played a street-wise call-girl to an impressionable Tom Cruise. In her subsequent 55+ roles on stage and screen she has consistently been singled out by critics as an actress of striking intensity, range, and skill. With a career spanning over four decades, De Mornay continues to be a dynamic presence in the entertainment world, admired for her talent, beauty, and enduring appeal. Upcoming films include “Gentleman Thief” opposite John Travolta and “The Up and Comer” with Noah Emmerich.
Emily Austin is an American TV personality and host of The Emily Austin Show. A former MTV anchor, Miss Universe judge, and current sports broadcaster for DAZN, she has excelled across entertainment and media. Frequently seen on major networks commenting on U.S. and Middle East politics, she was recognized at the White House by the President and Vice President for her election work. Emily also owns People’s Beauty, a South Korean skincare brand sold online and in stores.
Rabbi Aaron Lerner became President and CEO of the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles in 2023. In his first two years, The Foundation attracted $290 million in contributions, distributed $385 million in grants with 1,400 families, and grew assets to $1.5 billion—earning him recognition among the Los Angeles Business Journal’s 500 most influential leaders. A former UCLA Hillel executive director, Lerner is a noted Jewish organizational builder, author, and advocate for Israel.
Rabbi Steven Burg is the CEO of Aish, a global Jewish institute, and the Chairman of Aish Ha’am, a new party in the World Zionist Congress. Rabbi Burg also serves on the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency. Prior to Aish, he was Eastern Director of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, where he oversaw the Museum of Tolerance in New York City and contributed to the center’s fight against antisemitism.
Rabbi Noah Farkas is President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and was named by The Forward as one of America’s most inspiring rabbis. Formerly of Valley Beth Shalom, he is a civic leader who helped secure $5 billion for housing and services for the vulnerable and served as Chair of LA’s Homelessness Services Authority. A Navy Reserve chaplain and pro-Israel advocate, he is recognized nationally for innovative Jewish leadership.
Roz Rothstein, daughter of Holocaust survivors, is the co-founder and CEO of StandWithUs, an international, non-partisan education organization working on six continents. StandWithUs fights antisemitism, supports Israel, and educates hundreds of thousands of students annually. Its social media reaches tens of millions weekly. Previously, Rothstein was a Family Therapist in California for two decades. Since its inception, Forward Magazine twice named her among the 50 most influential Jews in America, and the Jerusalem Post twice named her among the 50 most influential Jews in the world.
Tomer Peretz, an Israeli-American artist born in Jerusalem and based in Los Angeles, creates bold works exploring trauma, identity, and healing. A former IDF combat soldier, he channels his PTSD into art that fosters collective resilience. In 2023, he launched The 8 Project, an art-based healing initiative for trauma survivors. In 2024, he became the first Artist-in-Residence at the Museum of Tolerance, creating ART WILL S8T YOU FREE with 850 October 7th survivors.
Henry Manoucheri, Founder and CEO of Universe Holdings, has built one of California’s largest real estate investment firms with $1.5B AUM and 3,000 units. Immigrating from Iran under the Shah’s regime, he has become a major investor in Israel and a devoted philanthropist, deeply committed to supporting Israel and strengthening Jewish community organizations worldwide.
Sal Litvak directed Guns & Moses – now in theaters – an action thriller about a Chabad rabbi who becomes an unlikely gunfighter, starring Mark Feuerstein, Neal McDonough, and Christopher Lloyd. Sal’s also directed the Passover comedy and cult hit, When Do We Eat? He shares Jewish wisdom and humor with over a million followers at Accidental Talmudist, and his book, Let My People Laugh: Greatest Jewish Jokes of All Time! is a bestseller.
Kenneth Chaim Fink is President & CEO of Tamar Fink, Inc., Charitable Advisors, and Family Wealth Counselors, LLC, advising many of America’s wealthiest families and charities. His innovative planning has generated over $1.4 billion for nonprofits, earning national recognition in Forbes as a Top Security Financial Professional. A dedicated Jewish leader, Ken co-founded Aish Minnesota, served as president of Keneseth Israel Synagogue, and has advised and supported numerous Jewish and international organizations worldwide.
Rabbi Dr. Mark Goldfeder, Esq. is the Founder, CEO, and Director of the National Jewish Advocacy Center. An expert in law and religion, constitutional and international law, and Jewish law, he has taught worldwide and is widely published in both academia and media. Formerly a Senior Partner at Goldfeder & Terry, he also advised Israel’s Mission to the UN. He co-authored the five-volume Religious Organizations and the Law and holds two rabbinic and two judicial ordinations.
Mitchell Julis is co-founder, co-chairman, and co-CEO of Canyon Partners, LLC, a leading investment firm specializing in value-oriented and event-driven strategies. Recognized with Institutional Investor’s Lifetime Achievement Award, he has served on the boards of Princeton, the Asia Society, and Brown’s Watson Institute, and helped establish Harvard Law School’s Program on Jewish and Israeli Law. A graduate of Princeton, Harvard Law, and Harvard Business School, he holds an honorary doctorate from Yeshiva University.
Arik is the Chazzan at Beth Jacob Congregation in Beverly Hills and Professor of Jewish liturgy at the Academy of Jewish Religion. He holds a Bachelors and Masters degrees in Music and Opera Studies and a Doctorate from the New York Theological Seminary and rabbinic ordination from Ohr Torah Stone.
Josh works with the Executive Team to help lead Neshamah’s mobile app strategy, guiding user growth, engagement, and retention. He is the founder of IZZY and Future of Jewish and has extensive experience and background in digital innovation.
Former lecturer in “Developing Economic Thinking” at Bar Ilan University and other academic institutions; Editor of the Hebrew edition of Milton and Rose Friedman’s “Free to Choose”. Served as the economics editor for daily newspapers in Israel. Founder of the “Israel Center for Grand Strategy” (ICGS), dedicated to transforming perceptions through professional discourse involving security and academia. The founding editor of the first economics channel on Israeli television, Channel 10.
Shari Foos, a sought-after speaker, facilitator, and trainer, created The Narrative Method in 2012 in response to the Crisis of Connection by bringing together diverse individuals, groups and leaders to more deeply connect to themselves and each other. Shari is a marriage and family therapist with degrees in Narrative Medicine (Columbia University) and Clinical Psychology (Antioch University).
Richard Sandler is Executive Vice President, Secretary, and Trustee of the Milken Family Foundation, where he has advanced education and medical research initiatives since 1982. He chairs the board of The Jewish Federations of North America and previously led The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. A partner at Maron & Sandler specializing in business law and investments, Richard also serves on numerous nonprofit and corporate boards. He is a graduate of UC Berkeley and UCLA Law.
Elana Rodan Schuldt is President & CEO of the Rodan Family Foundation, guiding its strategic, evidence-based philanthropy. Deeply committed to Jewish life, she serves as co-Board Chair of EarlyJ, on the Bay Area Federation’s Endowment Committee, and on the grants committee for Visionary Women. She has also held leadership roles with Moishe House and JCC East Bay. Previously, Elana spent nearly a decade at Rodan + Fields in digital marketing. She holds a BA from UC Davis.
Jeremy Pink is a global media executive and founder of Pink Ventures LLC, advising media companies worldwide including as a Senior Media Advisor to AMEPA. He previously held senior leadership roles at CNBC, including Senior Vice President of News, the top news and programming role for the network, and as President of CNBC Asia in Singapore. He was also CEO of Broadcast Sports International, where he helped lead the company to a successful sale and exit.
Amanda Markowitz is a Jewish thought leader, actor/producer, and host, and the granddaughter of four Holocaust survivors. A powerful voice for remembrance and resilience, she leads panels and hosts intimate conversations exploring emotional truth and purpose. As a pro-Israel activist, she uses her platform to educate and inspire meaningful dialogue to increase awareness, empathy, and action. Amanda lives in Los Angeles with her husband and three young daughters.
Noy Leyb is a Canadian-Israeli entrepreneur and IDF reservist who served over 300 days in Gaza and Lebanon after flying to Israel on October 7. He now leads Strong Voices for Israel, bringing IDF soldiers and October 7 survivors to under-reached allied communities. A former startup founder with an MBA from Michigan, Noy also educates 50k+ followers online (@noyleyb) and runs workshops to fight antisemitism and misinformation. He’s currently serving on the Lebanon border.
Jacki Alexander is the CEO and President of HonestReporting, leading the organization’s strategic vision and direction. With over 15 years of prior experience at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), she played a key role in strengthening pro-Israel support across Florida and the Southeastern United States. Recognized as one of the “Top 100 People Positively Influencing Jewish Life, 2024” by The Algemeiner, Jacki is bringing innovative ideas to the fight against anti-Israel disinformation campaigns and Israel advocacy. She holds an Master’s Degree in the History of International Relations from the London School of Economics.
Glenn Ilan, a former executive security professional in Los Angeles, returned to Israel after October 7th to serve in his IDF unit during frontline operations in Gaza, surviving one of the war’s most intense ambushes. Now focused on strengthening Jewish community, combating antisemitism, and fostering resilience, he also volunteers with Nevut Lone Soldier Org, which provides critical support, mental health services, and community for American veterans of the IDF and their families.
Richard Trank is an Academy Award–winning documentary filmmaker and Founder of Sea Point Films and Media. Previously, he was the founding Director and Executive Producer of Moriah Films, the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s two-time Oscar-winning film division, where he wrote and directed sixteen acclaimed documentaries on the Holocaust, Israel, and the Jewish people. His films have reached global audiences of over a billion. Trank is also a PEN Award winner, WGA nominee, and international film festival honoree.
Daniel Becker is a Columbia University student in the School of General Studies, majoring in Computer Science and a member of the Dean’s List and Honor Society. After two years studying entrepreneurship at Tel Aviv University and deeply connecting to his Israeli identity and Jewish roots, he returned to the U.S. to study at Columbia. There he experienced October 7th just weeks into his studies, shaping his perspective on Jewish life and campus culture.
Sean McNamara is an acclaimed director, producer, and writer known for his versatile storytelling for both film and television. His notable feature films include Soul Surfer, The Miracle Season, and the 2024 biographical drama Reagan, which hit theaters nationwide on August 30, 2024 . With decades of experience directing television series for Disney and Nickelodeon, McNamara remains committed to creating uplifting, impactful entertainment that resonates across audiences.
Hadasa Bau and Clila Bau-Cohen, daughters of Holocaust survivors Joseph and Rebecca Bau, preserve their parents’ legacy through the Joseph Bau Museum in Tel Aviv, named by TripAdvisor as a top global attraction. Hadasa, an artist, songwriter, and longtime Jewish community leader, and Clila, an architect and technology professional honored as Woman of the Year in Technology, lecture and perform worldwide, sharing their parents’ story of love, heroism, humor, and resilience with audiences across generations.
Orly Ravid is the Founder and Co-Executive Director of The Film Collaborative (TFC), an Entertainment Attorney, and an Associate Professor of Law and the Associate Dean of the Biederman Entertainment, Media, and Sports Law Institute at Southwestern Law School. At Southwestern Law School Orly is also the Director of the pro bono Entertainment & the Arts Legal Clinic. Previously, Orly was an entertainment attorney Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp LLP (MSK) and Senior Counsel at Tubi.
Elizabeth is the Co-founder of O7C, The October 7th Coalition, created with Emmy Award–winning actress Patricia Heaton to strengthen Christians to visibly and vocally support their Jewish communities. Their mission is to foster unity, combat antisemitism, and build lasting Christian-Jewish relationships worldwide. A seasoned strategist with experience in high-end brands, Elizabeth continues to call on Christians to stand boldly against rising antisemitism in the aftermath of October 7th.
Catherine E. Clark, PhD, is Senior Director of Programs at the USC Shoah Foundation. A historian of modern Europe trained in USC’s History Department, she previously served as Faculty Director of MIT’s Programs in the Digital Humanities. Her scholarship explores the relationship between history and images. At the Shoah Foundation, she is dedicated to advancing education, academic and public programs, and building partnerships across USC and with institutions worldwide.
David Suissa is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Los Angeles Jewish Journal, the nation’s largest Jewish weekly. For 17 years, his award-winning weekly column has earned honors from the L.A. Press Club and the American Jewish Press Association. Formerly founder and CEO of Suissa Miller Advertising, named Agency of the Year by USA Today, he sold the firm in 2005 to devote himself to Jewish journalism. Born in Morocco, he grew up in Montreal and now lives in Los Angeles.
Yair Eisenberg is the Israeli Cultural Attaché on the West Coast, based in Los Angeles, where he advances Israeli-American ties through cultural diplomacy. Formerly a journalist for Uvda, Israel’s leading investigative program, his work earned recognition and award nominations. In 2023, he published a dystopian thriller with Yediot, Israel’s largest publishing house. Eisenberg combines diplomacy, storytelling, and cultural exchange to strengthen connections between Israel and the United States.
Oren Lazar is a pro-Israel political activist and attorney. He served as AIPAC’s Southern Pacific Regional Political Director, overseeing political intelligence and candidate outreach across five states, and previously practiced securities litigation at a global law firm. A UC Berkeley and Georgetown Law graduate, he led pro-Israel student groups and taught on Israel and Zionism. Having lived and studied in Israel, Oren has appeared on CNN, FOX, MSNBC, and in leading publications discussing Israel and Middle East affairs.
Nathan is a communications strategist and founder of Miller Ink, advising top leaders in business, government, and nonprofits worldwide. Since 2013, he has guided hundreds of organizations through storytelling, strategy, and crisis management. Previously, he served as Director of Speechwriting at Israel’s Mission to the UN for Ambassador Ron Prosor, policy director of the Homeland Security Advisory Council, and a Goldman Fellow at the Transatlantic Institute in Brussels.
Niv Damary, 21, was born and raised in Los Angeles to Israeli immigrant parents who instilled strong Jewish and Israeli values. Active in the community through Israeli Scouts, Chabad, and volunteer initiatives, she also spent summers in Israel. Forgoing traditional college, she drafted into the Israel Defense Forces as a combat infantry instructor, serving until 2025. Now home in Los Angeles, she devotes time to family while continuing to advocate for the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
Barak Lurie is host of The Barak Lurie Podcast and Fox and Newsmax commentator. He is also the author of the best-selling Atheism Kills book series, warning of the dangers of godlessness. His latest book, “Keeping the Kids All Right,” is a best-selling manual for parents to ensure their kids always love God, America and Israel. Through his writing and media, Lurie has challenged cultural assumptions and champions faith-based values as essential to sustaining civilization.
Erez Goldman is the Executive Director of the Southwest Region for Israel Bonds, where he has driven over $1 billion in annual U.S. sales since 2018, fostering investments that bolster Israel’s economy and innovation. Previously, as Regional Director for the Israeli-American Council (IAC) from 2015 to 2018, he strengthened community ties in Greater Los Angeles. Erez is an IDF Veteran and a proud father to three beautiful children, two of whom are IDF Lone Soldiers today.
Laura Stein is of Counsel at Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP, focusing her practice in the areas of securities fraud class action litigation, complex litigation and legislative law. Laura currently serves on the Israel Bonds National Board of Directors and as the Chair of the Israel Bonds Los Angeles. Laura has also been a leader in many Jewish community organizations including StandWithUs, The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles (having served for several years on the PK-12 committee), WIZO, and JNF.
Mike is an Israeli-born, South African–raised business leader with extensive experience across media and consumer technologies, including streaming TV, mobile gaming, social media, and AI. His career spans leadership roles at Disney, Paramount, Deloitte, and Bain, and he has launched and scaled various ventures, including streamer Pluto TV through its successful sale to Paramount. Deeply committed to combating antisemitism, Mike co-founded and Co-Chairs the Jewish American Summit with Aish LA. Beyond his professional and community work, Mike is a tennis fanatic, a passionate music and arts festival attendee, and most importantly, Daddy to his 8 yr old son.
Richard Baer is a Senior Vice President with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management where he spent the last 28 years. Recognized by Forbes Magazine as a Best-In-State Wealth Management Team. Dedicated to his community, Richard served on the board of directors of Connect A Caring Community, a non-profit dedicated to mobilizing the community to Live A Life of Giving. Married to his nursery school sweetheart and the father to 3 loving children.
Jordan Levy is a veteran media and advertising executive with over 30 years of leadership in consumer products, entertainment, retail, and direct marketing. He has negotiated more than $1 billion in media deals and guided world-class brands including Mattel, Spin Master, and Target Stores. As CEO of MediaMind, Inc., he specializes in media strategy, valuation, and deal structure. Jordan also serves on nonprofit boards, championing causes in health, education, and community development.
Based in Vancouver, Canada, Megan Laskin is a mother of two, former Prosecutor, and dedicated community leader. She has volunteered with several organizations, including Jewish Federation, JFSA, Jewish day schools, and is currently on the board of the Vancouver Holocaust Education Center. Following October 7, 2023, Megan organized two large-scale events that featured diverse speakers where half of the attendees were not Jewish. Most recently, she chaired the 2025 JNF event, raising funds for a medical project in Ashdod, furthering her commitment to fight antisemitism and support Israel.
Steven Singer is Deputy Chief Development Officer and Chief Campaign Officer at Jewish Federation Los Angeles, where he leads philanthropic strategy and community engagement. A veteran nonprofit executive, he previously held leadership roles at City of Hope and spent nearly two decades leading the Entertainment, Media & Communications Division at UJA-Federation of New York. Throughout his career, Steven has focused on philanthropy, community relations, and building meaningful partnerships between leaders, organizations, and the communities they serve.
Daniel Gryczman is Chair of the Board of Jewish Federation Los Angeles and a longtime leader in the Jewish and Los Angeles communities. The grandson of four Holocaust survivors, he also serves as a Governor of The Jewish Agency for Israel, a board member of Camp Ramah in California, and a founder of the California Jewish Action Network. An honors graduate of UCLA and NYU School of Law, Daniel has built a career spanning real estate development, investment, and law.
Judith “Judy” Manouchehri, Esq. is President of the Beverly Hills Unified School District Board of Education, a transactional business and real estate attorney, and a lifelong member of the Beverly Hills community. She has advised on and transacted more than $1 billion in business and real estate deals, bringing her expertise in negotiation, financial analysis, and risk management to her leadership in education. As Board President, Judy champions academic achievement, fiscal accountability, campus safety, and innovative policies that prepare students for the future.
Emily Kane Miller is the founder and CEO of Ethos Giving, bringing deep experience across government, advocacy, nonprofits, corporate philanthropy, and social impact. Previously, she served as Vice President of Philanthropy & Community Affairs at The Wonderful Company, leading its award-winning philanthropic initiatives. An active member of the Los Angeles Jewish community, Emily is helping lead efforts to use the LA28 Olympic Games as an opportunity to celebrate Israeli and Jewish athletes and strengthen Jewish community engagement.
Elizabeth Barcohana is an attorney, mother of four, and longtime advocate for Israel with deep roots in the Los Angeles Jewish community. She has spent more than a decade engaging in pro-Israel advocacy online and has built a following of more than 200,000 across X, Instagram, and Facebook. Elizabeth serves as Chair of the Jewish Community Engagement Subcommittee of the California Republican Party, an elected member of the Los Angeles County GOP Central Committee, and a Board Member of the Bel Air Beverly Crest Neighborhood Council.
Eli Wininger is a Jewish American-Israeli IDF reservist and Special Forces Master Sergeant who has served nearly 250 days since October 7. A commander in the IDF’s Sayeret Egoz Unit, Eli was the first soldier to receive returning hostages as they left Gaza in October 2025. Having grown up in the United States, he brings a unique dual perspective to his speaking, connecting firsthand experiences from the front lines with the challenges facing Jewish communities worldwide. He has also raised more than $30 million for Israel and completed endurance challenges honoring the victims and hostages of October 7.
Jonah Platt is an actor, writer, and one of the leading voices on modern Jewish identity, culture, and current events. He hosts *Being Jewish with Jonah Platt*, the world’s #1 Jewish podcast, featuring candid conversations with prominent Jewish voices and allies. A Broadway and Hollywood actor, Jonah has received multiple honors for his advocacy against antisemitism and currently serves as Educational Advisor for the Jewish Broadway Alliance while pursuing a master’s degree in Antisemitism Studies.
Erik Huberman is the Founder and CEO of Hawke Media, a leading marketing agency that has helped more than 6,000 brands, including Red Bull, Verizon, Casamigos, Funko, and Crocs. A serial entrepreneur, Erik built and sold two e-commerce companies before the age of 26 and later founded Hawke Ventures, investing in emerging companies shaping the future of commerce. He is also the bestselling author of *The Hawke Method* and host of *HawkeTalk*, where he explores business, marketing, and entrepreneurship with leading industry voices.
Jonny Daniels is the Founder and Executive Director of From The Depths, an international organization dedicated to Holocaust remembrance, supporting survivors, and preserving the legacy of the Righteous Among the Nations. For more than a decade, he has worked closely with Holocaust survivors and their families while creating initiatives including the Survivor Torah Project, the Matzeva Project, and the documentary *The Righteous Road Trip*. A frequent international speaker and commentator, Jonny shares his perspective on Israel, antisemitism, Jewish history, and Holocaust remembrance with audiences around the world.
David Englin is the Senior Regional Director of ADL Los Angeles, leading efforts across Southern California to combat antisemitism, hate, and extremism. A former U.S. Air Force officer and four-term member of the Virginia House of Delegates, David previously served as President of the Los Angeles County Business Federation and Chief Operating Officer of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and Harvard University, he has spent his career in public service, civic leadership, and advocacy.
Andy Buckley is an actor best known for his role as David Wallace on NBC’s The Office, which launched a successful two-decade acting career. A Stanford University graduate and former financial advisor at Merrill Lynch, Andy also competed on Stanford’s NCAA golf team before pursuing acting in New York. A devoted supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, he has more recently become an outspoken advocate for Israel and the Jewish people.
Luai Ahmed is a Yemeni journalist, content creator, and speaker whose journey from growing up under Islamist and antisemitic indoctrination to becoming a leading voice against extremism has reached audiences around the world. A former columnist for Sweden’s *Bulletin*, he now hosts for Builders of the Middle East, promoting interfaith understanding and combating radicalization, antisemitism, and misinformation. With more than 700,000 followers, Luai has spoken at the UN and EU and appeared on Piers Morgan, Sky News, Fox News, and GBN.
Liora Rez is the founder and CEO of StopAntisemitism, a leading organization dedicated to exposing antisemitism and holding those who promote it accountable. With a background in neuroscience and expertise in digital marketing, she brings a unique perspective on human behavior, radicalization, audience psychology, and hate-based movements. A sought-after commentator, Liora has appeared on CNN, Fox News, and NewsNation.
Rabbi Aryeh Markman is a Jewish leader and the Executive Director of Aish Los Angeles, a role he has held since 1994. After secretly assisting Jewish Refuseniks while working in the Soviet Union, he began a personal journey that led him to Israel, where he studied Jewish learning and was ordained through Aish HaTorah. In 2024, he and a group of visionary businessmen founded the Jewish American Summit to address the defining challenges facing American Jewry. His mission is to connect all Jews to the power of Judaism and to each other, and to inspire the next generation of Jewish leaders.
Carly Gammill is a constitutional litigator and Director of Legal Policy & Litigation at StandWithUs Saidoff Law, where she works on issues including freedom of speech, religious liberty, and combating antisemitism. Previously, she founded and led the StandWithUs Center for Combating Antisemitism. For more than a decade, Carly has worked with students, educators, and communities to address antisemitism on campuses, in courtrooms, and at the United Nations, helping individuals understand and protect their legal rights.
Jacki Karsh is a six-time Emmy-nominated journalist with more than a decade of experience covering civic life, culture, and humanitarian issues across Los Angeles. She has interviewed leading figures across public policy, national security, philanthropy, business, and culture, and has emceed events for some of the nation’s most prominent institutions. Since October 7, Jacki has led more than 100 conversations on the Israel-Hamas war and media bias. In 2025, she launched the Karsh Journalism Fellowship, dedicated to advancing accurate, thoughtful, and fair reporting on Jewish and Israel-related issues.
Melanie Shiraz is Miss Israel 2025–2026, a former data scientist and tech entrepreneur, and one of the most internationally recognized Jewish advocates of the past year. Having represented Israel on the global stage while navigating unprecedented public scrutiny, coordinated disinformation campaigns, and antisemitism, she brings a rare combination of lived experience and analytical expertise to the challenges facing Israel today. Born in Israel and shaped by years spent in the Diaspora—including as a Jewish student leader at UC Berkeley—Melanie offers a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, public opinion, media, and Jewish identity. Today, she advises, speaks, and advocates internationally on combating antisemitism, strengthening Israel’s global standing, and winning the battle for hearts and minds.
Jay Sures is Vice Chairman and Managing Director of United Talent Agency (UTA), one of the world’s leading entertainment and media companies. He oversees UTA’s television, news, broadcasting, and speakers divisions, representing many of the nation’s most influential journalists, broadcasters, and cultural leaders. A member of the University of California Board of Regents, Sures has been a leading voice in confronting antisemitism on campus and strengthening the Jewish community, while also chairing the boards overseeing Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories.
Erielle Reshef is a National Reporter and Anchor for MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) and a former National Correspondent for ABC News, where she appeared regularly on Good Morning America, World News Tonight, and Nightline. An Emmy Award-winning journalist, she has covered major breaking news around the world and is recognized for her reporting on politics, public health, antisemitism, Jewish life, and the Middle East. She holds a master’s degree in Diplomacy and Conflict Studies from Reichman University in Israel.
Captain Y (Res.) Reserve Officer in Special Unit 669, the Israeli Air Force’s elite Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), airborne rescue, and medical evacuation unit. Throughout his service, he has taken part in dozens of high-risk missions, rescuing wounded soldiers and civilians under fire and bringing them safely home. Captain Y was among the Unit 669 operators who participated in Operation Arnon,the historic hostage rescue mission that freed Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv from Hamas captivity. His service reflects the unit’s unwavering commitment to its mission: risking everything to save lives and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Steve Hilton is an entrepreneur, bestselling author, television host, and candidate for Governor of California. A former senior advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron, he later immigrated to the United States, taught at Stanford University, founded Golden Together, and hosted Fox News’ The Next Revolution. Drawing on his experience in business, media, and public policy, Steve is a leading voice on government reform, economic opportunity, and the future of California.
Adam Milstein is an Israeli-American philanthropist, real estate investor, and community leader. An IDF veteran, Technion graduate, and USC MBA, he is Managing Partner at Hager Pacific Properties. With his wife, Gila, he co-founded the Adam & Gila Milstein Family Foundation to protect American values, combat antisemitism, hate, and bigotry, and strengthen the U.S.-Israel alliance.
Zach Sage Fox is an award-winning filmmaker, media entrepreneur, and founder of THINK AGAIN, a nonprofit dedicated to combating misinformation through viral digital content. Following the October 7 attacks, he launched Facts for Peace, an initiative whose videos countering Hamas propaganda and antisemitism have reached millions and been featured by the Israeli government, the United Nations, and the U.S. Congress. Through storytelling and social media, he has become a leading voice in the fight against online extremism and antisemitism.
Tanya Tsikanovsky is Head of Development & Operations at Think Again, Senior Advisor at Combat Antisemitism Movement, host of the Highly Jewish Podcast, Fellow at Merage Fellowship by Nas Daily, and a candidate for West Hollywood City Council. An unapologetic Zionist, Tanya has become a leading voice in the fight against antisemitism and online extremism, using media, advocacy, and public engagement to defend Israel, strengthen the Jewish community, and promote democratic and American values.
Mosab Hassan Yousef, known as the “Green Prince,” is a former Hamas insider, bestselling author, and internationally recognized speaker. The son of a founding Hamas leader, he made the extraordinary decision to become an undercover operative for Israel’s internal security service, helping prevent terrorist attacks and save countless lives. Today, he speaks around the world about terrorism, extremism, human rights, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering a rare firsthand perspective shaped by his remarkable journey.
Dillon Hosier is the founding CEO of the Israeli-American Civic Action Network (ICAN), a 501(c)(4) uniting Israelis and pro-Israel Americans to combat antisemitism and strengthen the U.S.–Israel alliance at the state and local levels. A former political officer for Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Los Angeles, he built ICAN to counter anti-Israel and anti-American movements where they organize: city councils, school boards, and state legislatures. Under his leadership, ICAN has stopped hostile legislation, secured IHRA adoptions, won school board races, and built the political intelligence tools the pro-Israel community needs to act decisively.
Timothy Gaspar is a businessman, community leader, and candidate for Los Angeles City Council representing the West San Fernando Valley. After building one of the region’s largest independent insurance agencies, he retired to focus on public service and civic leadership. A longtime supporter of local nonprofits and education, Tim serves on the boards of several leading Los Angeles organizations and is the founder of the Timothy Gaspar Entrepreneurship Scholarship at California State University, Northridge.
Dr. Sheila Nazarian is a board-certified plastic surgeon, entrepreneur, television personality, and outspoken advocate. Founder of Nazarian Plastic Surgery and several successful healthcare and skincare ventures, she is also known for her role on Netflix’s Emmy-nominated Skin Decision: Before and After. Through her public speaking and widely followed social media platforms, Dr. Nazarian champions truth, advocates for Israel and the Jewish community, and inspires audiences around the world.
Marissa Streit is the Chief Executive Officer of PragerU, the nation’s largest edu-tainment nonprofit, where she has transformed it into one of the most influential education media organizations, reaching more than two billion annual video views. She is also the host of Real Talk, PragerU’s long-form interview series featuring leading voices in politics, culture, and education. A former educator, Marissa is dedicated to advancing American history, civics, and values through innovative educational media.
Stella Inger- Escobedo is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, former mainstream media anchor, and founder of Stella News. After two decades in broadcast journalism, she launched her own platform to report on politics, culture, and current events. A Soviet Jewish refugee, she is dedicated to fighting for America’s Judeo-Christian values, exposing media bias, and bringing attention to the issues shaping the nation’s future.
Yossi Farro is a Jewish educator and one of the most recognizable young voices inspiring Jewish pride through the mitzvah of tefillin. Known for wrapping tefillin with influential founders, investors, entertainers, and public figures, his videos have inspired millions to reconnect with their Jewish identity. Through social media and personal outreach, he is helping spark a new generation of Jewish engagement.
Ambassador Yechiel Leiter is Israel’s Ambassador to the United States and a veteran diplomat, scholar, and public policy leader. Previously Chief of Staff to Benjamin Netanyahu during his tenure as Finance Minister, he has spent decades shaping Israeli policy and strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship. He brings a unique perspective on Israel’s security, diplomacy, and the future of the Middle East.
Ambassador Mike Huckabee is the United States Ambassador to Israel, former Governor of Arkansas, bestselling author, and longtime national television host. A leading voice on faith, public policy, and the U.S.-Israel relationship, he has spent decades advocating for Israel and the Jewish people. As Ambassador, he brings a unique perspective on the evolving Middle East and the future of the U.S.-Israel alliance.
Dr. Gad Saad is an evolutionary behavioral scientist, bestselling author, and public intellectual whose work explores human behavior through the lens of evolutionary psychology. A former professor at Concordia University for over three decades, he is the author of multiple bestselling books, including The Parasitic Mind and the #1 New York Times bestseller Suicidal Empathy, and hosts The Saad Truth, reaching millions worldwide.