Key Takeaways
- The Jewish National Fund‑USA’s Global Conference for Israel will take place in San Diego from Nov 12‑15, 2024, marking the organization’s 125‑year anniversary.
- Nearly 3,000 participants—including young professionals, community leaders, and philanthropists—will gather for a four‑day program of speakers, networking, and a showcase of Israeli products.
- Prominent figures from Israeli politics, entertainment, journalism, and philanthropy will speak, offering first‑hand accounts of how JNF‑USA’s projects transform border communities.
- Ticket pricing reflects three tracks: full price ($800), professional/communal‑leader rate ($550), and a discounted youth rate ($250) for ages 22‑40.
- Local Los Angeles leaders are integrally involved, underscoring the event’s strong West Coast connection and aspirational impact on Israel’s future.
Upcoming Conference Overview
The Global Conference for Israel, organized by Jewish National Fund‑USA, commemorates a historic 125‑year milestone while looking ahead to the next century of service to Israel’s border communities. Chairman Dr. Sol Lizerbram emphasizes that the anniversary is not merely a nostalgic celebration but a catalyst for learning and adaptation. Attendees will experience a blend of educational sessions, live entertainment, and an expansive expo where they can explore and purchase Israeli goods. The event’s four‑day schedule is designed to deepen participants’ understanding of JNF‑USA’s mission and to inspire them to contribute their time, leadership, and generosity toward Israel’s evolving needs.
Notable Speakers and Media Appearances
The conference’s lineup features a distinguished roster of voices that illuminate Israel’s cultural, security, and social landscape. Lior Raz, co‑creator and star of the acclaimed series “Fauda,” will share personal narratives about life in Israel’s frontier regions. Middle‑East expert and former Knesset member Ruth Wasserman Lande will provide strategic insight into regional dynamics. Award‑winning author Dara Horn will discuss the power of storytelling in shaping Israeli identity, while Pulitzer‑winning journalist Ronen Bergman will offer behind‑the‑scenes perspectives on Israel’s security apparatus. These speakers, alongside former Miss Israel and IDF combat medic Noa Cochva, promise to connect attendees with authentic, lived‑experience stories that underscore the organization’s impact.
Program Highlights and Networking Opportunities
Beyond keynote addresses, the conference offers a rich tapestry of sessions that cater to diverse interests. Workshops on philanthropy, leadership development, and community building will equip young professionals with tools to effect change. Panel discussions will examine Israel’s strategic priorities, the role of innovation in the country’s growth, and the importance of cultural preservation. Attendees will also have ample opportunities to network with peers, scholars, and industry leaders, fostering collaborations that extend far beyond the event itself. The World’s Largest Zionist EXPO will showcase Israeli artisans, startups, and consumer products, providing a tangible connection to the nation’s vibrant economy.
Involvement of Local Los Angeles Leaders
A unique aspect of this year’s gathering is the prominent participation of several Los Angeles‑based JNF‑USA leaders. National Chair Larry Russ, Rabbi Pini Dunner of YINBH in Beverly Hills, Rabbi Joel Nickerson of Wilshire Boulevard Temple, and Rabbi Erez Sherman of Sinai Temple will all be featured throughout the conference. Their involvement highlights the West Coast’s pivotal role in supporting Israel and reinforces the event’s mission to bridge diaspora communities with Israeli society. By showcasing these local voices, the conference underscores the tangible ways in which regional leaders amplify the organization’s reach and impact on a global scale.
Ticket Pricing and Registration Details
Understanding the financial considerations of a diverse attendee base, JNF‑USA has structured its ticketing options to accommodate a broad spectrum of participants. General admission is priced at $800, while professionals operating within the Jewish communal sector can secure a discounted rate of $550. For younger adults aged 22‑40 who are part of the JNFuture cohort, the cost drops to $250, encouraging emerging leaders to engage with the organization’s mission. Prospective attendees can purchase tickets and access further program details at jnf.org/global-conference-for-israel, where comprehensive information on speakers, sessions, and accommodations is readily available.
Purpose and Vision Behind the Conference
The overarching aim of the conference is to cultivate a deeper, more informed connection between diaspora supporters and the frontier communities of Israel. Dr. Lizerbram stresses that attendees will leave with “a more complete understanding of Israel and the role they can play in shaping its future.” This vision translates into concrete outcomes: heightened awareness of on‑the‑ground projects, increased capacity for charitable giving, and the formation of lasting alliances among community influencers. Ultimately, the event aspires to empower participants to become ambassadors of Israel’s narrative, translating personal engagement into sustained advocacy and philanthropic action across generations.
Strengthening Jewish Identity Through Shared Experience
Beyond its educational and fundraising dimensions, the conference serves as a powerful catalyst for reinforcing Jewish identity and solidarity. By bringing together individuals from varied backgrounds—whether seasoned philanthropists, rising civic leaders, or students of Jewish culture—the event creates a shared space where collective purpose flourishes. Participants are encouraged to reflect on personal values, recognize common aspirations, and envision a future where the bonds between the diaspora and Israel remain vibrant and resilient. This communal reinforcement not only celebrates the organization’s storied past but also charts an inspiring course for the next 125 years of partnership and growth.