Four Days, Endless Impact

On December 1–4, nine Maccabi shlichim from across North America and Mexico gathered in Philadelphia for four unforgettable days of learning, connection, and meaningful work. Maccabi World Union’s Annual Shlichim Seminar isn't just a program – it's a reminder of how deeply shlichut shapes Jewish life and identity across the world.

The delegation included: Lior Vitlin - Maccabi USA & MWU Central Shlicha in Philadelphia; Ido Mizrahi - Maccabi Shlicha to BZD in Baltimore; Lee Naftali - JCC Association Maccabi Shlicha in New York; Tal Maymon - BBYO & Maccabi Shlicha in Washington DC; Dean Assef - JCC Maccabi community Shaliach in Pittsburgh; Daniella Ironi - Junior Community Shlicha in Tucson; Daniela Hochman - Maccabi & HaShomer Shlicha in CDI, Mexico; Oren Enzwaig - MWU Shaliach & David Posnack - JCC Shaliach in South Florida; and Dina Zakirov - JCC Maccabi Games Shlicha to Kansas City - our growing team of leaders fostering Maccabi values across the continent.

Content That Leaves a Lasting Impact

Led by Roey Tshuva, Chairman of the MWU North America Desk, Dana Berger, Head of the Desk & Shlichim Department, and Lior Vitlin, Maccabi USA and MWU Central Shlicha, the seminar was described by participants as an inspiring, safe, and empowering environment.

Sessions explored the role of the shaliach, building strong community connections, and gaining practical skills for daily work, including: a briefing on the state of North American Jewry after October 7 with Dan Kurtz; a diplomatic conversation with Tzach Saar, Deputy Consul General of Israel in NY; a strategic meeting with Donald Kent, President of Maccabi USA; a fundraising workshop with Jason Silberfine, MWU Director of Development; and a session on community shlichut with The Jewish Agency’s Noa Hadad. Each session blended practical tools with emotional depth - helping shlichim grow both professionally and personally.

Sports as a Tool for Leadership 

One of the highlights of the seminar was an experiential sports session inspired by Maccabi’s new North American initiative, the Maccabi Women’s Forum. Through a catchball activity and a conversation with Hila Yeshayahu, Chair of the Israeli Catchball Association, shlichim explored how sport can strengthen communities, uplift women, and deepen Jewish identity.

A Community That Feels Like Family

Between sessions, shlichim had opportunities to bond, build teams, and explore Philadelphia’s vibrant Jewish community. Many described the atmosphere as warm, intimate, and deeply supportive: “It felt like home. Like family.”

Words That Say It All

Roey Tshuva, Chair of the North America Desk and the Movement’s Shlichut Committee, and a key partner in shaping and leading the seminar, captured the spirit of the week: “The shlichim and their work expand the heart. This week reminds us why we do what we do, and that the shlichim are the embodiment of Zionism within Maccabi.”

Dana Berger, one of the seminar’s lead architects, added: "We created a safety net of trust, shared learning, and a deep connection. Each shaliach brought a unique color - together forming one strong, unified group.”

And Lior Vitlin, Head of Delegation and one of the seminar’s lead architects, concluded: “The seminar reminds us that shlichut is both a national and organizational mission, which comes with clear expectations and responsibilities. Each shaliach carries tremendous strengths - and it is our role to help nurture them.”

Looking Ahead – Stronger, More Connected, and Ready to Act

The seminar closed with a clear message: Our shlichim are a powerful force - strengthening the bonds between Israel and Jewish communities across North America and around the world through identity, sport, leadership, and heart.

With Deep Gratitude – TODA

To MWU leadership, our North American partners, lecturers, community hosts, Maccabi USA, and the incredible shlichim - thank you for making this seminar so impactful! Together, we step into 2026 stronger, connected, and committed to our shared mission - More Than Ever!

Want to join the team and become a Maccabi Shaliach or Shlicha? Contact us at [email protected]

Learn more about Maccabi Shlichim here