“Standing Here Today is Proof That We Won”

Earlier this month, the top leadership of the movement, including Maccabi presidents, vice presidents, and heads of confederations, gathered at Kfar Maccabiah for the inaugural MWU President’s Forum. 

This three-day strategic summit was led by MWU President Michael Siegal, alongside Chairman Amir Peled, Maccabiah Chairman Assaf Goren, MWU CEO Roy Hessing, and additional senior leaders.

Preparing for the Future - Standing Strong in the Present 

The forum focused on preparation for Maccabiah 2026 and on confronting the rise in global antisemitism. The program also included the presentation of the 2025 Impact Report highlighting the past year’s main activities, the induction of the new CEO, professional workshops, and a visit to the Maccabi sports and education campus in Maccabim.  

“We have worked tirelessly within the challenging post October 7 reality, in solidarity with Jewish communities around the world, strengthening ourselves both in the Diaspora, and at home", said Chairman Amir Peled. "This reflects the Maccabi values of resilience and connection - not only through sports and education, but through every aspect of life. As we enter the Maccabiah countdown, we move forward with confidence - as a people who know not only how to survive challenges, but how to succeed in spite of them". 

A Moment That Moved Us All

One of the most powerful moments of the forum was the deeply moving address by captivity survivor Bar Kuperstein.

Kuperstein thanked attendees for their efforts on behalf of the hostages and their families, shared his personal story of resilience and heroism, and revealed that he is currently completing a book recounting his time in captivity. 

“Standing here in front of you today is, as far as I'm concerned, proof that we won,” Kuperstein said. “In the darkest days in captivity, we did not always know how much people were fighting for us outside. Today I understand the strength and embrace of the Jewish community worldwide. In my upcoming book, I share what I went through there - not so we dwell in the past, but so that we draw strength from it for the future. Maccabi World Union's connection to life, sport, and hope is exactly what we need now. Together we rise from the fracture - and together we will be bigger, stronger, and more meaningful than ever before.” 

Reflecting on the emotional encounter, MWU President Michael Siegal shared: “Bar’s testimony left us speechless, yet deeply inspired. His story embodies the resilience and heroism of our people. Seeing him standing before us - alive, hopeful, and unbreakable - reminded every leader present why we do what we do. These were tears that strengthened our commitment to ensuring that our connection as a people only grows stronger.”

Looking Forward Maccabiah 2026

Closing the forum with a forward-looking message toward Maccabiah 2026, CEO Roy Hessing emphasized: “The 2026 Maccabiah takes place at a critical moment for world Jewry. It reflects the essential bond between Israel and Jewish communities worldwide. As athletes - and as a people - perseverance in the face of challenge defines us. This summer, thousands will gather in Israel in a celebration of resilience, unity, and unwavering belief in the values we carry - in sport and in life.”