CCllaassss ooff 22002211
1155 YYeeaarrss ooff LLeeaaddeerrsshhiipp DDeevveellooppmmeenntt
Building on the legacy of former Israeli Ambassador Shlomo Argov, the Argov Fellows Program in Leadership and Diplomacy seeks to prepare up to twenty-four exceptional IDC students in their final year of studies for future leadership positions for Israel and the Jewish world. Through a year-long, challenging interdisciplinary curriculum, the program strives to help students acquire the knowledge, tools and skills necessary for working towards meeting the many challenges that Israel faces in our challenging global environment.
The program, conducted entirely in English, combines academic training and practical skills. Its unique curriculum includes courses, seminars and "hands on" workshops taught exclusively to Argov Fellows by leading academic and professional experts. The students participate in study tours to Europe, the United States and throughout Israel. For several years, the students also had the opportunity to participate in an additional study tour to China. The fellowship year concludes with the public presentation of capstone group policy projects in which the fellows propose their solutions to major challenges facing Israel and the Jewish world.
The Argov alumni have carried on to, among others, eminent fellowship programs such as the Fulbright and Chevening, prestigious graduate programs at leading universities around the world including Princeton, Harvard, Columbia, Cambridge and Oxford, and leading positions in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Please find below brief bios of the Class of 2021, the program's fifteen cohort, and of the Argov team. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Alissa Abrahami (1995, Canadian, Israeli), Government and Sustainability (International) Alissa was born and raised in Toronto, Canada. After participating in a gap-year program in Israel, she decided to make Israel her home and joined the IDF, serving as a medic for combat intelligence, specializing in physiotherapy for combat-related injuries. At IDC, where she is on the dean’s list, Alissa’s field of interest is how natural resources and sustainable development influence Israeli foreign policy. She understands that the future leaders and thinkers of our society must prioritize issues pertaining to sustainability, and she hopes to one day make an impact in this field. Alissa aspires to a career in academia.
Jonathan Agassi (1996, Israeli, American), Government (International) Jonathan was born in California and moved to Israel at the age of 13. As a teenager, he participated in the Israeli Scouts. Following high school, Jonathan enlisted in the Israel Air Force (IAF) Special Forces where he served as an intelligence officer for nearly five years. During his service, in order to expand his perspective on Israel, he began his studies at IDC, where he also served as research intern at the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT). Jonathan currently works as an intern in the Knesset and a combat training instructor through the national youth leadership association “Aharai.” He intends to channel his burning passion for Israel to become an influential leader and create positive change.
Majd Bader (1993, Israeli), Government Majd was raised in Horfeish, a Druze town in northern Israel. In the IDF, he served as a combat soldier in the special forces of the Golani infantry brigade. Majd currently leads educational workshops for Arab youth in Israel in the space field and participates in Reservists on Duty. He has also established a startup in Horfeish to prove the concept that high tech projects can succeed in Israel’s periphery. Last year, Majd was placed on the dean’s list for social excellence at IDC. He is currently involved in organizing the TEDx IDC Herzliya event. Majd plans to continue developing his management skills through academic study and practical experience and sees himself in leading positions in the future. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Ariel Bem (1993, Canadian, Israeli), Law and Government Ariel was born in Toronto, Canada and immigrated to Ra’anana, Israel with his family at the age of 12. He was drafted to the IDF where he served as an officer in a field reconnaissance unit, specializing in gathering visual intelligence. Ariel spent five years in the IDF, completing his service at the rank of captain. He has participated in numerous Israel advocacy delegations abroad and is an annual speaker for the organization Bridges for Peace, where he shares his experience serving as a leader and educator in the IDF. Ariel aspires to combine his love for Israel with his passion for the corporate legal world in order to build bridges between Israel’s tech sector and companies around the globe.
Shay Ben Zimra (1994, Israeli, French), Law and Government Shay grew up in Ra’anana in a French family. He served as a combat soldier in the 101st Battalion of the IDF Paratroopers Brigade. Shay then traveled to a small Jewish community in Mexico with his wife, where they served as emissaries of the World Zionist Organization. At IDC, he participated in the International Criminal and Humanitarian Law Clinic, Aura Program, StandWithUs Israel Fellowship and volunteered at the police prosecutor’s office. Shay worked as a consultant at Robus Legal Marketing and as an advisor for a French-speaking candidate for the Knesset. He currently works at an IT integration company. Shay speaks Hebrew, French, Spanish and English and aspires to a career in commercial law.
Raphael Bitton (1994, Israeli, American, French), Government (International) Raphael grew up as the youngest of 12 children in New York to parents from Morocco and Tunisia. He began studying psychology at Hunter College where the experience of anti-Israel sentiment and a lack of Zionist presence to counter it compelled him to move to Israel and join the IDF. Following his service as a squad commander and fitness instructor in the Givati Brigade Reconaissance Company, Raphael instructed an intensive pre-army training program for new immigrants and has been volunteering his time engaging in Israel advocacy, supporting lone soldiers, and positively engaging Palestinian youth. He plans graduate study in economics and to pursue a career in diplomacy and Israel advocacy. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Yair Eizenberg (1994, Israeli), Communications Yair grew up in the Golan Heights and spent a pre-army gap year at the Arava Program (“mechina”) for Social Leadership. In the IDF, he served as a combat soldier in the Moran special forces artillery unit. Following his discharge, he worked with groups of Jewish youth from the Diaspora. He also served as an intern for MK Sharren Hasskel. AT IDC, where he is on the dean’s list, Yair hosts a show on IDC radio where he interviews politicians and journalists on various topics. He also publishes occasional opinion articles on current affairs websites. He plans to work first in Israeli media and then get involved in Israeli politics.
Ofir Elkayam (1995, American, Israeli), Government (International) Ofir was born in Los Angeles. After living in many places throughout his childhood, he decided to move to Israel in 2013 and enlist in the IDF. There he served as the operation officer and team sergeant in the Givati Brigade Reconnaissance Company. Upon his release, Ofir traveled much of the Far East before returning to pursue his studies at IDC. Following his undergraduate degree, Ofir hopes to develop unconventional methods to combat national security challenges including crime and terror on a local and international scale.
Ayelet Goldfarb (1995, Israeli, American), Government and Sustainability Ayelet grew up in Jerusalem. In the IDF, she served as an educational NCO (non- commissioned officer) in the Border Police unit and as a commander for the education course. Ayelet then participated in a Jewish Agency delegation to a Jewish summer camp in California teaching youth about Israel. Upon her return, she worked as a counselor for various youth groups from North America. At IDC, Ayelet was the coordinator of the Gideon Group, took part in IDC Connect Club and is part of ProWoman Club. Today she is an intern for Greenpeace Israel creating an awareness of the plastic problem for politicians in the Knesset. Ayelet plans to pursue a career in the fields of diplomacy and Israel advocacy. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Amit Harari (1995, Belgian, Israeli), Communications Amit was born and raised in Antwerp, Belgium and moved to Israel with her family at the age of 16. In the IDF, she served as a tour guide at the Israeli Air Force (IAF) museum and as a course commander. Post discharge, Amit flew the world as an El Al flight attendant and at IDC, she enjoys serving as a class representative, orientation week tutor and co-host of an online show. Amit has a passion for global cultures and speaks Hebrew, English, Flemish, French and Dutch. She currently works at i24NEWS English and aspires to become a news correspondent/anchor to raise stories that should be heard in combination with the fields of diplomacy and international relations.
Josh Kurzer (1992, British, Israeli), Government and Sustainability (International) Josh was born and raised in London, where he attended Jewish schools and was involved in his local “Bnei Akiva” youth movement. After high school, he studied for two years at a religious seminary (yeshiva) in the Old City of Jerusalem. Josh then drafted to the IDF, serving as a combat soldier in the reconnaissance unit of the paratroopers brigade. After his release, he travelled throughout South America and parts of Africa including spending time volunteering at an orphanage in Ethiopia. At IDC, where he is on the dean's list, Josh has been involved with Model UN, Gideon Group and Debate Club. He speaks English, Hebrew and basic Spanish and hopes to pursue a career in the fields of diplomacy or sustainability.
Sara Levy (1994, Israeli, Venezuelan, French), Psychology and Business Sara grew up in Israel in a Venezuelan family. She has always been interested in music and art and considers creativity her strongest trait. After high school, Sara was a group branch manager for the “Noam” youth movement and served as an educational NCO in the IDF. After her service, she worked for two years as a data analyst and office manager. At IDC, Sara works at IDC's miLAB (media innovation lab), first as a research assistant and now as a project manager. She currently works as a freelancer in the fields of digital marketing and web development. Sara speaks English, Hebrew and Spanish and aspires to work in the fields of social entrepreneurship and large-scale social problem resolution. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Sandra Marcushamer (1998, American, Mexican), Government (International) Sandra moved from Texas to Israel in order to learn how to better represent Israel and foster productive dialogue in the region. She is leader and founder of a professional club specializing in negotiation and security in the Middle East and North Africa, a researcher at the ICT and a CAMERA Campus Fellow, where she releases reports to counter inaccurate anti-Zionist and anti-Semitic media coverage. Sandra speaks English, Spanish, Hebrew and is studying Arabic. She is passionate about finding creative ways to bring about peace in the Middle East. Sandra aspires to be a leader in her endeavors, whether that be in international law, security or diplomacy.
Irit Moiseev (1996, American, Israeli), Government (International) Irit was born in Haifa and grew up in California. In high school, as part of a journalism program exploring challenges in Israeli society, she filmed a documentary about lone soldiers. Irit built and led Israel educational programs and planned large-scale events for her local Jewish youth group. She served three years as a combat soldier in the IDF Search and Rescue Unit. As a former lone soldier, Irit volunteers with organizations aimed at helping lone soldiers in the army. She speaks English, Hebrew, and some Russian. In addition to her academic studies at IDC, Irit is also working towards a degree in computer science and seeks to combine these two fields of study in a professional career in the field of cyber-security.
Noah Oberlander (1995, American, Israeli), Business & Economics (International) Noah grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. After completing a gap year program in Jerusalem and a year at the University of Maryland, Noah decided to move to Israel. He served in the IDF’s Paratrooper Brigade where he received his company’s award of excellence. Inspired by a life-long passion for youth leadership, Noah took on the role as Head of Development on the board of JLIC at IDC, helping to build the religious community. He is a member of the Investment Group at IDC and holds the position of Director of Outreach and Engagement in the Kol Ami fund. Alongside his studies, Noah works as an analyst at an international investment bank. Noah speaks English and Hebrew and aspires to pursue a career that combines his passions for economics, international relations, and bridge building. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Ido Oselka (1994, Israeli), Law and Business Ido was raised in Rishpon. During high school, he participated in many athletics competitions and played professional soccer. After high school, Ido served as a combat soldier and officer in the IDF Iron Dome Unit. During his service, he was chosen to represent his unit in an FIDF delegation to Poland that was accompanied by Holocaust survivors and American soldiers who liberated the camps. Ido is currently a captain in the IDF reserves. At IDC, he volunteered in the Community Service Law Students Project, participated in a local government clinic as well as a civil litigation practicum with the Tel Aviv district attorney. Ido aspires to use his business capabilities to create value for society, business and humankind.
Eden Raviv (1996, American, Israeli), Government (International) Eden was born in Israel and grew up in the United States. After high school, she moved to Israel to serve in the IDF as a lone soldier in the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories Unit as a research analyst. Following her service, Eden worked at a luxury boutique hotel. At IDC, where she is on the dean's list, Eden interns as a research assistant for a Lauder Government School faculty member. She participated in the Ambassadors Club, was vice president of the RRIS Debate Club last year and will serve as club president this year. Eden also volunteers as an English tutor for religious women at “Beliba Homa.” She hopes to pursue a career in academia in the field of international relations.
Michelle Sahar (1995, Israeli, Italian), Government Michelle was born and raised in Tel Aviv. She enlisted in a special officers track in the IDF Human Resources Corps, serving four years as a combat unit human resources officer. At IDC, Michelle runs the Back to Society organization which helps released prisoners to find employment. She participated in the "Shagi" dialogue program and the ProWoman Club. Michelle worked at the youth headquarters and Tel Aviv district of the "Gesher" party and interned for MK Orly Levy-Abekasis and for the spokesperson’s department of the Knesset Economics Committee. She speaks Hebrew, French, and English and aspires to take an active part in Israeli politics and to help change Israel’s social-economic reality. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Shahaf Samuch (1993, Israeli), Government and Sustainability Shahaf grew up in Gedera and spent most of her time dancing, acting, and guiding in the "Hamaccabi Hatzair" youth movement, where she volunteered for a service year prior to her military service. In the IDF, Shahaf served as an armored instructor and then worked as a youth coordinator in the Givatayim municipality. At IDC, she took part in the "Megama Yeruka" Club, dances with the IDCDANCING company and will be managing the Impact Entrepreneurship Club this year. Shahaf currently works in the fields of impact investing and measurement and hopes to continue to specialize in these areas. She looks forward to leading a change in the social and environmental areas that interest her the most.
Rom Shmit (1994, Israeli), Psychology Rom grew up in Tel Aviv. During high school, he was an Israeli Scouts counselor and a professional volleyball player. In the IDF, Rom served as a team commander in the Maglan Reconnaissance Unit. After his release, he worked as an instructor at the “SEISEI” company developing creative thinking strategies for children and youth. Rom has also worked as a volleyball coach and as a coordinator for the Israeli Scouts. At IDC, he was the orientation week coordinator of the Psychology School and a TechTalk Club member. Rom also volunteered in youth at risk training. He aspires to influence and strengthen Israel’s education system while providing equal opportunities for all of the country’s children.
Lior Sirkis (1995, Israeli), Government Lior was born in New York and raised in Tel Aviv. She served at the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit as the spokesperson for the 401 Armored Brigade. After her service, Lior served as a Jewish Agency Emissary in Orange County, California and currently works as an educational coordinator for the Israeli Scouts.. At IDC, she managed the “Kulna” program and participated in the Media in Conflicts Seminar (MICS) as well as the “Shagi” initiative, working with students from the Arab sector. Lior is also an intern at the INSS’s Contemporary Antisemitism in the United States research project. She is interested in pursuing a career in international relations and aspires to improve Israel’s worldwide image. CCllaassss ooff 22002211
Shanny Tal (1994, Israeli), Law and Government Shanny grew up in Kiryat Ono. In the IDF, she served as an education NCO in the logistics school. Shanny then worked five years as an El Al flight attendant. At IDC, she served three years as a class representative and participated in the StandWithUs Israel Fellowship, Model UN, public defense criminal clinic and criminal practicum with the Tel Aviv district attorney. She also participated in the Heroes for Life humanitarian delegation to Guatemala and is currently managing the law school’s orientation week. Shanny speaks Hebrew, English, Spanish and basic Mandarin. She aspires to a meaningful international career in criminal justice alongside her passion to influence positively Israel’s image overseas.
Shabtay Vardi (1995, Israeli, American), Government Shabtay was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Netanya. He was drafted to the IDF Spokesperson's Unit, serving in the West Bank and working with domestic and foreign media outlets. At IDC, Shabtay volunteered for the IDC Student Union and was part of the Gideon Group and Reservists on Duty. He also managed the IDChina Club and interned in Beijing at the Chinese startup accelerator company "DayDayUp." Shabtay participated in the IDC branch of the "TAMID" Consulting Club and the “Shagi” dialogue program. He speaks Hebrew, English and spoken Arabic and is interested in a diplomatic career fostering Israel's international relations and improving the country's global image.
Eden Yegezaw (1994, Israeli), Law and Government Eden was born in Ethiopia and immigrated to Israel at the age of 8 with her family. After graduating from the Yemin Orde Youth Village High School, she participated in the pre-military Academy for Leadership at Ein Prat. Eden served as an IDF officer in positions including platoon commander and as a training officer at the IDF Officers’ Academy. At IDC, she participated in the student exchange program at Tilburg University, StandWithUs Israel Fellowship and the "Kulna” Project as a mentor for students. Eden hopes to bring about change at the community and national levels as well as to create learning opportunities for others. TThhee AArrggoovv 22002200 TTeeaamm
Dr. Alisa Rubin Dr. Alisa Rubin is the founding academic director of the Argov Fellows Program. She is a senior lecturer at IDC’s Lauder School of Government, Diplomacy and Strategy. Alisa is also an external faculty affiliate at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government Public Diplomacy Collaborative and formerly served as a non-resident senior fellow at the Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution. She completed her Ph.D. in history and Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard University, her M.A. in international economics and finance at Brandeis University and her B.A. (summa cum laude) at Yale University. Alisa specializes in international political economy (Middle East), globalization, and business-government relations. Her current research focuses on American higher education in the Middle East and the future of higher education in the 21st century. She is passionate about educating future aspiring leaders.
Keren Azaria Keren Azaria is the program manager of the Argov Fellows Program for the second year. She recently returned to Israel after three years in Washington, DC where she served as the Jewish Agency Israeli Emissary to the George Washington University Hillel as well as the Advisor to Israel Fellows Program Director at Hillel International. Keren served for two years in the Israeli Air Force as an intelligence NCO. Following her service, she earned her B.A. in Government from IDC Herzliya, graduating as a member of the Argov Fellows Class of 2016. During her time in IDC, Keren led a project as part of the StandWithUs fellowship, interned at the Abba Eban Institute, volunteered at Hillel IDC and worked as a debate trainer.