Our Judges:

One of the best parts of submitting a proposal for Shalom Corps’ competition, known to us as the Local Community Impact Initiative, is getting your name in front of our impressive panel of judges. Not only will the winner earn $10,000 as a prize. Not only will your program get implemented around the world — but judges with experience and connections will be reviewing your work, seeing your name and even explaining their positions as to why they graded proposals as they did. What does this mean? You’ll hear some feedback if you’re in the top five.

Let’s give some color to the judges on the Shalom Corps’ panel.

Eugene Kandel, CEO Start-Up Nation

Your judge, Prof. Eugene Kandel, Start-Up Nation Central

Professor Eugene Kandel is the CEO of Start-Up Nation Central. Enough said. This non-profit is known around the world for dedicating itself to strengthening Israel’s innovation ecosystem, connecting companies around the world, making governmental connections, and bringing NGO leaders to the people and technologies in Israel that can help them solve their most pressing problems.

Ruth Messinger, Global Ambassador, American Jewish World Service

Your judge, Ruth W. Messinger, President of American Jewish World Service (AJWS)

Ruth W. Messinger, President of American Jewish World Service (AJWS) from 1998 to July of 2016, is currently the organization’s inaugural Global Ambassador. In this role, Ruth is continuing her crucial work of engaging rabbis and interfaith leaders to speak out on behalf of oppressed and persecuted communities worldwide.

Eytan Stibbe, Founder, Vital Capital

Eytan M. Stibbe, Founding Director of Vital Capital Fund, has been involved in investment in Africa for the past 26 years. Mr. Stibbe studied Mathematics & Computer Science at Bar Ilan University and completed his Master’s degree in Business Administration at the European University, Belgium. Among his many professional accomplishments, Mr. Stibbe has worked extensively in initiating business and financing ventures worldwide, primarily in developing countries.

Alon Rozenthal, CEO Whizzco

Alon Rozenthal is a serial entrepreneur with 15 years of industry experience. He founded and established 3 successful startups. His main industries are Adtech and Ad-Intelligence. Currently, he serves as the founder & CEO of Whizzco and advisor to several startups in various fields.

Assaf Vardi, Founder, Managing Partner, Reality Investment Funds

Adv. Assaf Vardi has some 20 years of experience in managing and promoting real estate projects. He has extensive experience in betterment of real estate and in urban regeneration. Vardi holds a BA in Law and Business Administration from the Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya.

Martine Fleishman, Shalom Corps Steering Committee

Martine Fleishman, Shalom Corps Steering Committee

Martine Fleishman has dedicated her life to family, friends and the Jewish communal arena tirelessly promoting Israel, Jewish identity, Jewish leadership and Jewish education as well as human rights and social justice. Fleishman holds a graduate certificate in Non Profit management and leadership. Her leading roles have included: President of UJA Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy-overseeing a $29,000,000 campaign; Cabinet member of COJIR, COJP and the Network Commissions of UJA Federation of New York. She is currently Chair of JAFI’s Project T.E.N.

With a special welcome from Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks

An international religious leader, philosopher, award-winning author and respected moral voice, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks was awarded the 2016 Templeton Prize in recognition of his “exceptional contributions to affirming life’s spiritual dimension.” Described by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales as “a light unto this nation” and by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair as “an intellectual giant”, Rabbi Sacks is a frequent and sought-after contributor to radio, television and the press both in Britain and around the world.

Rabbi Sacks stepped down as Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth after serving for 22 years. Rabbi Sacks has held a number of professorships at several academic institutions including Yeshiva University, New York University and King’s College London. Rabbi Sacks has been awarded 18 honorary doctorates including a Doctor of Divinity conferred to mark his first ten years in office as Chief Rabbi, by the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Carey.