Stronger Leadership, Shared Purpose

This month, senior leaders from across the global Maccabi movement came together in Israel for the MWU CEO Forum 2025 – an inspiring, emotional, and impactful journey that strengthened our shared mission at one of the most pivotal moments in Jewish history.

For several days, CEOs and top professionals from Argentina, Australia, Canada, the U.S., Spain, Ukraine, Paraguay, Hungary, Guatemala, the Czech Republic, and Venezuela traveled across the country - from Jerusalem to the northern border and the communities of the south - engaging in deep dialogue, enriching encounters, and professional collaboration.

"It was an amazing week full with learning, Jewish Pride, inspiring activities, meeting great people and feeling part of a big and beautiful family", said Ilan Lopez, CEO Maccabi Guatemala.

The Forum opened at Kfar Maccabiah, led by MWU Chair Amir Peled and senior leadership, including Orly Froman, MWU Deputy Chairperson;  Eyal Tiberger, MWU CEO Forum Co-Chair; Assaf Goren, Maccabiah Chairman; and Roy Hessing, Maccabiah CEO and newly appointed MWU CEO, who spoke about the defining challenges facing the Jewish world today: two years of war, the global rise in antisemitism, and the growing responsibility of Jewish communal leadership.

In Jerusalem, participants visited the New Knesset Museum, followed by a deeply moving encounter with Nurit Leon, mother of Adi Leon (z"l), who was killed in battle after October 7. Her story - one of courage, loss, and unwavering love for Israel – touched the entire group, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of our unity, solidarity, and mutual responsibility, now more than ever.

 A memorial ceremony at Mount Herzl, joined by Maccabi Tzair madrichim on their Shnat Hachsharah in Israel, and a visit to the Western Wall deepened the sense of connection and purpose.

In the North, participants visited Majdal Shams and Mitzpe Kunetra, meeting local leaders and hearing firsthand about life along the border. In the South, they spent time at 'HaGal Sheli' – an innovative surf-therapy center supporting youth affected by trauma - and continued to Sderot for a hope-filled look at resilience, recovery, and the community’s unwavering spirit. The day concluded with a warm, festive dinner in Tel Aviv.

"Every moment, every meeting, and every discussion has left a deep mark on my heart", shared Viktoria Dyakova, CEO of Maccabi Ukraine. "I'm very grateful for the opportunity to exchange knowledge and ideas, for the warm atmosphere, and for the friendships that were formed during the seminar".

The closing session included strategic briefings, updates on new MWU initiatives, and a thoughtful reflection circle focused on what each leader will bring back to their community, led by Jed Margolis, Eyal Tiberger, and Dr. David Korenfeld.

Again and again, participants noted that they left with a full heart, fresh perspective, renewed energy, and a stronger sense of why our work matters. "Any part of the program was very well thought-out, and I enjoyed each one of them", expressed Mariano Mirelman, CEO Maccabi Paraguay. "I hope to continue working hard to take our community to the next level".

And David Goldman, CEO Maccabi Australia added: "It was an incredibly inspiring week full of memorable moments, insightful conversations, and shared purpose. I’m looking forward to continuing our work together and progressing our Maccabi movement in the months ahead".

A heartfelt thank-you to the MWU Programs Department, Rabbi Carlos A. Tapiero and Dr. David Korenfeld who led this important initiative; the World Zionist Organization; Keren Kayemet LeIsrael; and all participating leaders for making this experience truly special! See you next year!