Jewish National Fund-USA Highlights the Transformation of Northern Israel at Global Conference

In a remarkable gathering, the Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA) hosted its Global Conference for Israel, welcoming nearly 3,000 passionate attendees to join the journey towards what is being heralded as The Emergence of a New North—an initiative focused on revitalizing northern Israel. This transformative vision unfolds amid the backdrop of resilience and innovation, promising a brighter future for communities impacted by past challenges.

The conference featured a mix of Israeli leaders, innovators, and visionaries who are rallying together to help rebuild and transform war-torn areas across the North. Dr. Orlee Panitch, a JNF-USA Ambassador, opened the session with a deeply personal narrative. She reminded the audience about her father's journey from Nazi Germany in 1935, facilitated by Rav Kook, highlighting the enduring legacy of commitment to the land and its people. Her heartfelt story resonated with attendees, serving as a powerful reminder that JNF-USA's mission transcends beyond planting trees—it encapsulates the creation of entire ecosystems that enable life and opportunity.

Panitch elaborated on JNF-USA's ambitious plans to attract 300,000 new residents to the North through strategic investments in housing, infrastructure, and economic development. Projects such as high-tech incubators and the Galilee Culinary Institute by JNF, which features the renowned Rosenfield School of Culinary Arts, symbolize this renaissance, showcasing the potential for partnership and purpose.

Voices From The Galilee

The event also spotlighted community leaders like Asaf Langleben, the Mayor of Upper Galilee, who eloquently recounted the community's shift from crisis to recovery. Operating as a beacon of hope, he shared, “Under fire, we built an alternative school, kept our factories running, and maintained our agricultural commitments.” Langleben emphasized the vital role that JNF-USA played in their journey towards rebuilding.

Meanwhile, Michal Shiloah Galnoor, CEO of Western Galilee Now, highlighted the profound impact of JNF-USA on local businesses through initiatives like the Online Mitzvah Marketplace, aimed at sustaining small enterprises during overwhelming challenges. “When everything shut down, JNF-USA reached out, stating they were with us. The support we received reignited hope for bakers, artists, and farmers who felt forgotten.” Galnoor's account affirmed that the marketplace was not merely a business solution; it was a lifeline.

Dor Pintel, a farmer from Galilee, further reinforced this sentiment by sharing a gripping story of community courage. He recited how JNF-USA provided a bomb shelter for his farm during urgent times, signifying solidarity and support that went beyond material provision.

The Culinary Future of the North

As the conversation shifted towards the culinary landscape, Steve Dabrow, chair of the Galilee Culinary Institute by JNF, engaged the audience with his vision for a culinary revolution. He stated, “This land is a crossroads of 82 cultures—it's time to market it alongside Tuscany, Napa, and Bordeaux.” The institute is seen as pivotal in positioning the Galilee as a global hub for culinary innovation.

Joined by the acclaimed chef Lior Lev Sercarz, who co-founded the institute, Dabrow elucidated how this initiative will serve as a stage for culinary creativity while fostering global awareness of the region's rich agricultural heritage and cultural diversity.

A Call to Action

Concluding the session, Dabrow passionately urged attendees to help turn dreams into reality by becoming active participants in this ambitious vision. “We have a blueprint for the future of the Galilee—but we need support to make it a reality,” he declared, encouraging contributions from early adopters to bring new life to this revitalization effort. As the conference wrapped up, Michael Miller from Georgia succinctly captured the atmosphere of hope and determination, stating, “The North is indeed rising.”

This gathering not only honored the history and struggles of the past but also charted a hopeful path forward, inspiring attendees to engage in building a brighter future for Northern Israel through collective action and shared purpose.