Star-studded line-up announced ahead of annual event
Actor and antisemitism activist Noa Tishby and former IDF chief of staff Lt Gen Aviv Kochavi will be the keynote speakers in September.
JNF Australia has announced actor and antisemitism activist Noa Tishby and former IDF chief of staff, Lt Gen Aviv Kochavi as the keynote speakers for its annual events in September.
Actor, producer and author Tishby is Israel’s former special envoy for combating antisemitism and delegitimisation.
She has a massive social media following and works tirelessly to reverse the trend of anti-Israel and antisemitic sentiment across the world.
She told JNF’s virtual gala in 2021 that “JNF Australia has a wonderful reputation” for its impact in Israel.
“That map … of the Negev covered with so many JNF Australia projects and all just from the last few years, it’s truly impressive. As a proud Israeli I thank you all for making those projects come to fruition,” she said.
The IDF’s 22nd chief of staff, Kochavi oversaw the defence of Israel during May 2021’s Operation Guardian of the Walls. Under his stewardship, Israeli troops defended their citizens against 4500 rockets fired from Gaza and riots in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Kochavi is also renowned for having successfully steered the IDF through the COVID-19 pandemic and a period of extreme political instability.
“I’m looking forward to sharing my insights about the uniqueness of the IDF and it is a one of a kind,” he said.
JNF CEO Dan Springer said, “Having recently finished his term leading the IDF, after four decades of distinguished service, we are honoured to have Aviv Kochavi with us in Australia, to share with JNF audiences his unique insights on regional challenges and opportunities.
“We are also very fortunate to have actress and activist Noa Tishby share the stage, and her perspectives on advocating for Israel on social media, in the UN, Hollywood and around the world.
“This is a truly unmissable event that promises to be an experience like no other.”
This year’s annual event is about supporting a critical project to strengthen Israel’s south, centred on Soroka Medical Centre in Beersheba, Israel’s busiest hospital and a lifeline for the people of the Negev.
With the funds raised, JNF Australia will partner with Soroka to revitalise the centre and transform its outdoor spaces into a beautiful healing oasis envisioned by David Ben-Gurion.
The Healing Gardens will become a vital component of treatment, recovery, and rehabilitation for over 750,000 patients and 3000 children who seek treatment for chronic illness.
Bookings: jnf.org.au/events
or call 1300 563 563.
Aviv Kochavi. Photo: Flash90
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