In Conversation with Shirel Dagan-Levy, CEO of VoP

As we approach this new year, we find ourselves in extraordinary times. The challenges facing the Jewish people, both in Israel and around the world, have never felt more urgent. But in these moments, I believe we have a unique opportunity to rise together and take action for the future of our community.

For too long, we’ve operated as separate entities — Israel and the Diaspora, each facing our own battles. But the truth is, we are one people. Our strength lies in our diversity and our ability to work together, to bring different voices and perspectives to the table. That’s what Voice of the People is all about.

With the one year memorial of October 7th right around the corner, we’ve seen Jewish communities worldwide come together in ways we never imagined in the last 12 months. Now, the question is: how do we harness that unity for the long term? How do we ensure that we aren’t just responding to crises, but also proactively shaping a better future?

President Herzog had a vision of a global jewish council, and Voice of the People is the realization of that vision. Beyond being the President of the State of Israel, he’s taken upon himself the responsibility of prosperity and future of the Jewish people around the world. This council will bring together 150 proactive Jewish leaders —innovators, thinkers, storytellers, and builders — who will work collaboratively to develop actionable solutions for the challenges we face. We’re not just talking about ideas; we’re creating real, tested solutions that will have a lasting impact.

For those considering applying to the council, I want to emphasize that this is an opportunity like no other. You’re not just representing your community; you’re shaping the future of the Jewish people. We’re looking for individuals who are ready to contribute their voices, ideas, and expertise to make a meaningful impact. You’ll be part of an incubator for ideas, with opportunities to test and implement real solutions that will shape the Jewish community for years to come.

Looking ahead, there’s so much to be excited about. In the coming months, we’ll be announcing the members of the first Global Council and hosting our first summit in Israel. Council members will work with professional mentors, including a parallel fellowship program to ensure their ideas have the support and resources they need to succeed. And it doesn’t stop there—this is just the beginning. We are building a community and network who will continue to work together, creating tangible change that will ripple across generations.

I often say that I’m an entrepreneur at heart, and this initiative is no different. When I look ahead, I want to be able to say that the ideas and projects that emerged from the council have changed the landscape of Jewish leadership. This is not just a moment in time—it’s the beginning of something bigger, something that will shape the future of the Jewish people for generations to come.

I’m incredibly excited about the applicants we’ve seen coming in so far, and I can’t wait to see even more join us.

Wishing us all a better year this Rosh Hashana, praying for all the hostages and loved ones to come home safely and for Jews around the world to continue to share their proud Jewish voice.

I often say that I’m an entrepreneur at heart, and this initiative is no different. When I look ahead, I want to be able to say that the ideas and projects that emerged from the council have changed the landscape of Jewish leadership. This is not just a moment in time—it’s the beginning of something bigger, something that will shape the future of the Jewish people for generations to come.

I’m incredibly excited about the applicants we’ve seen coming in so far, and I can’t wait to see even more join us.

Wishing us all a better year this Rosh Hashana, praying for all the hostages and loved ones to come home safely and for Jews around the world to continue to share their proud Jewish voice.

Publish date: October 1st

By: Shirel Dagan-Levy