Bridge the Ocean: A Live Digital Symposium

Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Live Virtual Symposium
4:00–6:00 PM EST | 3:00–5:00 PM CST | 1:00–3:00 PM PST

Join Israel Friends for a special virtual symposium connecting
friends and supporters of Israel from around the world for meaningful
conversations about mental health, resilience, defense, security,
and the innovative solutions shaping Israel’s future.

Hosted by Matt Levin, National Director of Israel Friends,
with panel discussions moderated by
Kyle Blank, CEO of Israel Friends, this live event will
bring together security experts, technology innovators, mental health
professionals, journalists, and community leaders to share firsthand
insights into the challenges facing Israel and the initiatives making
a tangible difference on the ground.

Through two engaging panel discussions and a special featured interview,
attendees will explore how Israel is expanding access to mental health care,
strengthening civilian preparedness, advancing defense innovation,
and building a more resilient future.

Mental Health & Resilience: Healing, Recovery & Hope

Discover how innovative mental health programs, trauma-informed care,
and collaborative initiatives are helping Israelis navigate the psychological
impact of war, build resilience, and create pathways toward lasting recovery.

Featured Panelists:

• Adiel Levin — General Manager, Healthy Mind
• Lisa Silverman — Founder & Executive,
  ICAR Collective (Israel’s Collective Action for Resilience)
• Kyle Blank — CEO, Israel Friends |
  Moderator & Panelist

Featured Interview: Lazar Berman, The Times of Israel

Join Lazar Berman, Diplomatic Correspondent for
The Times of Israel, for a special live
conversation with Kyle Blank exploring Israel’s
evolving diplomatic landscape, the challenges shaping its future,
and the developments influencing international perspectives on Israel.

Hear insights from a journalist covering Israel’s relationships,
security challenges, and place on the global stage.

Defense & Security: Innovation, Protection & Preparedness

Explore the evolving security challenges facing Israel and the
technologies, strategic partnerships, and community defense
initiatives helping protect its people.

From advanced defense innovation to equipping and training civilian
responders, hear how leaders on the front lines are developing
practical solutions to strengthen security and preparedness
across Israeli communities.

Featured Panelists:

• Doron Kadoch — Leader, Emergency Civilian Guard Team,
  Kibbutz Nir Am
• Tomer Malchi — CEO, ASIO Technologies |
  Defense Technology Expert
• Yonatan Zagdanski — Director,
  Citizen Defenders Initiative
• Kyle Blank — CEO, Israel Friends |
  Moderator & Panelist

Turning Connection Into Impact

At Israel Friends, our mission is to identify critical
gaps and deliver innovative solutions across three core areas:
Defense, Community Safety & Domestic Security,
and Mental Health.

Through strategic partnerships, advanced technologies, civilian
preparedness initiatives, and trauma recovery programs, we’re
helping build a safer, stronger, and more resilient Israel.

Together, we can bridge the distance, strengthen our connections,
and turn solidarity into meaningful action.

Learn more at

www.israelfriends.us
.