Honoring Heroes, Celebrating Strength

One of the most emotional moments was the screening of Oz’s List, a powerful film by Yossi Eli and Gidi Maron. A year after October 7, the filmmakers retraced the footsteps of Oz Davidian, a simple farmer who became an extraordinary hero. Armed only with a handgun, Oz entered the massacre zone of the Nova Festival 15 times—rescuing 120 young men and women while facing terrorists in direct combat. “I had no choice,” he recalls. “There was no one else there.” Following the screening, Oz himself took the stage, sharing a firsthand account of resilience and heroism.

Congress attendees also visited Tel Hashomer and Beit Halochem rehabilitation centers, where they met wounded soldiers, listened to powerful testimonies, and experienced an authentic wheelchair basketball game—gaining firsthand insight into the determination of these incredible warriors.

Another moving experience was the visit to the UNBROKEN exhibit curated by Adi Rubinstein, which highlights the stories of athletes and fans affected by the October 7th attacks and the war, emphasizing sports as a unifying factor that fosters resilience, healing, strength, and hope.

Participants also heard the story of Café Re’im - a powerful symbol of resilience, took part in the Anemones Before the Rain tribute project, listened to testimonies from Nova Festival survivors, and joined the Eitan – Everybody Can sports clinic, which empowers individuals with special needs through professional fitness training.

A special Maccabiah event featured a vibrant fair showcasing products, unique flavors and handmade goods created by local businesses from the Gaza Envelope – serving not just as a place to shop, but as a powerful display of perseverance and community support.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part in these meaningful experiences, once again demonstrating the unbreakable bond that unite us – More Than Ever!

Photos credit: Ronen Topelberg.