Meet the Fellows
Argov Class of 2026

  • Tomer Adela

    (1998, Israel), Government


    Tomer was born and raised in Gedera and began his education at Boyar Boarding School in Jerusalem at age 12. After graduating, he joined the pre-military academy “Mechinat HaNegev” in Sde Boker, then enlisted in the IDF Paratroopers Brigade, serving as a squad commander and deputy platoon commander. He continues to serve in active reserve duty. After his military service, Tomer worked for two years as a counselor at Steinberg Boarding School, mentoring high school students. At Reichman University (RU), he is part of the “Israel at Heart” Program, took part in the 2024 Orientation Week team, and participated in the Excellence Workshop of the Institute for Liberty and Responsibility. In his free time, Tomer enjoys running, traveling, and spending time with his family. Looking ahead, he hopes to pursue a master’s degree abroad and continue integrating education, leadership, and public service to reduce social gaps in Israeli society.

  • Yafit Assyehen

    (1998, Israel), Communications, Dean’s List


    Yafit was born and raised in Ramla. After high school, she joined the “Derech Eretz” pre-military leadership academy, where working as a youth rehabilitation center sparked her passion for education. Yafit served in the IDF as a combat soldier and commander in the Search and Rescue Brigade, where she is an active reservist.  At RU, she chose to study communications with an Interactive specialization in order to explore the intersection of diplomacy and the world of product and high tech. Yafit participated in the StandWithUs Fellowship and later became the program’s coordinator at RU, the University of Haifa, and the Technion. She also interned in the business process department at Jazwares, a toy company in Miami. Yafit aspires to work at the intersection of Israel’s foreign relations and youth education, promoting broad, international thinking among the next generation. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, training, reading, and writing. 

  • Daniel Birnbaum

    (1998, France/Israel), Computer Science and Entrepreneurship


    Daniel was born in France and grew up in Haifa. He studied in the gifted class program at Leo Baeck High School, where he majored in physics and economics. Daniel spent over a decade playing professional basketball, a commitment that shaped many of his priorities during his formative years. He later served for four years in the Israeli Navy’s elite YALTAM Unit as a professional diver, where he led operational teams in complex underwater missions. Following his service, Daniel joined the Israeli Air Force’s pilot training program in an effort to contribute even more to the country. At RU, he studies computer science and entrepreneurship. Daniel is passionate about harnessing technology to solve real-world challenges and aims to help strengthen Israel’s innovation ecosystem. In his free time, he enjoys scuba diving, reading, and capturing moments through photography.

  • Roy Bloch

    (1999, Israel), Government, Dean’s List


    Roy was born in Hod Hasharon and spent part of his school years in Dallas, Texas. A former competitive tennis player and coach, he later served in the IDF as a foreign relations commander in the Intelligence Corps, where he developed a strong interest in diplomacy and global affairs. After his service, Roy worked at Camp Ramah in Nyack, New York, managing the Israeli delegation of 70 counselors. At RU, he has been active in Reichman Radio, the M Club, and served as a counselor for international students. Roy also worked as a product content writer at a global tech company, helping shape engaging messaging for international audiences. Outside the classroom, he is passionate about storytelling, performing arts, snowboarding, and exploring new cultures. Roy plans to pursue a master’s degree abroad and hopes to use his skills in a meaningful role that advances understanding, cooperation, and progress.

  • Yuval Ben-Zvi

    (1997, Israel), Computer Science and Entrepreneurship


    Yuval grew up in Reading, England, where he developed a lifelong passion for sports, especially football, which he played competitively throughout his youth. He also actively participated in basketball, rugby, athletics, and cricket. After moving back to Israel, Yuval attended Shoham High School, where he majored in physics and computer science. He was an officer and section head in the IDF 8200 Intelligence Unit, where he served in several key roles in intelligence analysis, technological operations, and team leadership. Yuval is passionate about using innovation to drive meaningful change. He aspires to create technology-based solutions that address real challenges in Israeli society. By blending entrepreneurship with public impact, Yuval hopes to help shape a more resilient, inclusive, and forward-thinking future for Israel. In his free time, he enjoys playing sports, listening to music, and reading. 

  • Jacob Chernavsky

    (1999, Israel/United States) Government (International School), Dean’s List


    Jacob was born in Brooklyn and raised in New Jersey. Motivated by a deep connection to Israel and the Jewish people, he moved to Israel in 2020. In the IDF, he served in the Golani Special Forces. Following his service, Jacob began studying government at RU, specializing in counter-terrorism. Outside the classroom, he is active in the TAMID and Defense Tech Clubs, where he merges his interest in innovation with strategic thinking. Over the past year, Jacob has conducted research at the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT), focusing on risk assessment and policy development, while continuing to serve in the reserves. He currently works as a project manager for the Namer Association, a non-profit dedicated to the reintegration of combat veterans into civilian life. Jacob aspires to represent Israel globally, with a focus on defense and diplomacy, and is committed to shaping effective, forward-thinking policy that strengthens Israeli society.

  • Eden Gafner

    (1995, Israel), Business Administration and Psychology


    Eden grew up in Kibbutz Re'im, near the Gaza border, where she was raised on values of solidarity, friendship, love of the land, and agriculture. At RU, she is pursuing a dual degree in business administration and psychology with a specialization in marketing and organizational psychology. Eden is passionate about community engagement and personal well-being and works as a Pilates instructor alongside her studies, viewing sports as a form of therapy. She is also an avid world traveler and is actively involved in public diplomacy, participating in three advocacy delegations to the United States after October 7th to raise awareness about Israel and share personal stories from her community. Eden also volunteers in programs dedicated to empowering youth and promoting equal opportunities with a strong commitment to social impact. She aspires to combine business innovation, public diplomacy, and community leadership to contribute to Israel’s global representation and create positive change. 

  • Eden Horesh

    (1999, Israel), Government


    Eden was born and raised in Eilat and was active in the Scouts as a volunteer and guide. In the IDF, she served as an armor instructor and converted through the “Nativ” course. After her service, she volunteered with the HelpUp  Organization and led a 44-member delegation to Tanzania. At RU, Eden participated in the Shadow Cabinet, Meet to Talk, Excellence Workshop in Applied Politics, represented the university on the Poland delegation, interned at the Knesset Spokesperson’s Office, and mentored at RU orientation. She also served as the academic coordinator for the Student Union and led the 2025  Democracy Day. Eden works as a robotics, 3D and AI instructor, while receiving the Impact Scholarship and volunteering with the “Aleh” Organization.She enjoys sailing, traveling, and family time. Passionate about Israel and Diaspora Jewry, Eden dreams of joining the Foreign Ministry's cadet course and completing her master's degree overseas. 

  • Zoe Moed

    (2000, Israel), Communications


    Zoe moved to Israel from Florida with her family at age four. Throughout her youth, she worked as a counselor at Camp Ramah and in various youth movements, working to build strong western ties to Israel. In high school, Zoe majored in Israeli philosophy and sports psychology. After graduating, she joined the “Mechinat Nachshon” pre-army leadership program, where she deepened her understanding of Israeli society’s internal and external challenges. In the IDF, she  served as a commander in a combat intelligence operations room along the Lebanese border and is an active reservist. Her passion for storytelling and filmmaking drives her advocacy work. Zoe has led campaigns promoting Israeli resilience, combating antisemitism, and challenging global media narratives. She will be embarking on a US speaking tour, where she will share her personal war experience on college campuses. Zoe aspires to shape global perceptions of Israel through media, diplomacy, and public engagement. 

  • Or Moshe

    (1999, Israel), Government


    Or was born and raised in Givatayim. Since October 7th, she has played a key role in the international media and advocacy work of the Hostages Families Forum, supporting families of hostages and captivity survivors, leading global campaigns, and engaging with senior decision makers. Or previously served as a communications officer at the British Embassy in Israel, focusing on soft-power diplomacy, and as a senior international account manager at a leading PR firm. Her background in strategic communication was shaped during her military service in the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, where she specialized in crisis media and international press coordination. In recognition of her volunteering during Operation Iron Swords, Or received the President’s Award from RU. She is currently completing her B.A. in government, diplomacy, and strategy with a focus on counterterrorism. Or is passionate about strengthening Israel’s global image while helping rebuild public trust and social resilience at home. 

  • Oren Ottensooser

    (1999, Israel), Law and Government


    Oren was born and raised in Herzliya. In the IDF, she served as a human resources officer in the Casualty Division and as a staff officer in the Missing in Action Unit. Oren worked as an educator at the “Kol Ami” pre-army program, guiding a diverse group of participants and managing social impact projects. At RU, she spent a semester abroad at the University of Mannheim, took part in the StandWithUs Fellowship, volunteered at the Family Court, and is currently completing a judicial practicum at the Tel Aviv District Court. In her free time, Oren enjoys dancing and spending time with her friends and family. Motivated by a strong sense of purpose and social responsibility, she aims to harness her background in law and diplomacy to advocate for Israel, combat global injustices, and lead meaningful initiatives that promote equality and positive change both locally and internationally.

  • Noa Rakel Perugia

    (2001, Italy), Government (International School), Dean’s List


    Noa Rakel was born and raised in Rome, Italy. After high school, she moved to Israel and joined a pre-military gap year program with Bnei Akiva in Gush Etzion. Noa served in the IDF as a lone soldier in the Public Diplomacy Office of the Spokesperson’s Unit, where she organized visits and delegations for diplomats and high officials. Noa is a World Jewish Congress Fellow, a StandWithUs Fellow, a council member of Voice of the People, an organization started by Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, and a volunteer with “Hashomer Hachadash.” At RU, she participated in Pugwash, Model United Nations (MUN), and the Diplomacy and Debate Club. In her free time, Noa enjoys reading, studying art history, and spending time with family and friends. In the future, she hopes to join the cadet course of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and become a diplomat, advocating for Israel and the Jewish people.

  • Menachem Mendel Reinitz

    (1998, United States/Israel), Government (International School)


    Menachem grew up in New York City, raised in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish household. In 2017, he moved to Israel and was drafted as a lone soldier into the IDF Nachal Brigades Special Forces “Orev” Company. There, he served as a combat soldier, team medic, and company communications sergeant. Since his release, Menachem has completed over 300 days during the Iron Swords War as an active reservist with the “Paltatz 5” Special Forces Company. At RU, he studies government, homeland security, and counterterrorism. Menachem volunteers as a counselor in “Garin Tzabar” and “Ach Gadol,” supporting lone soldiers, and serves as a coordinator and team leader for peer counselors of first-year students at RRIS. His passions include cycling and flying FPV drones. Menachem aims to combine his religious upbringing, military experience, and leadership skills to advocate for veterans, lone soldiers, and the Jewish diaspora. 

  • Danielle Rothenberg

    (1996, United States/Israel), Psychology


    Danielle was born in Boston, lived in Cincinnati, and moved to Ra’anana. During high school, she participated in a gifted program and was a professional dancer. Danielle served 4.5 years as a lieutenant in an elite IDF Intelligence Special Forces Unit and played a key role in a project that received the Presidential Achievement Award. She then spent three years as the international young leadership director at Save a Child’s Heart, helping to save the lives of children from over 70 countries. In this role, she led thousands of young professionals globally, hosted advocacy delegations, spearheaded fundraising events, and managed a medical mission in Tanzania. At RU, Danielle pursues interests including AI, Arabic, and the Impact Club. She enjoys teaching yoga and researching meditation. Danielle also volunteers sailing with women affected by trauma from the war. She is deeply committed to driving social impact in Israel and globally. 

  • Nimrod Schlezinger

    (1999, Israel) Psychology & Business Administration


    Nimrod was born and raised in Rosh HaAyin. As a teenager, he participated in three international CISV youth delegations, shaping a multicultural outlook and strong commitment to dialogue. He later served in a specialized IDF intelligence unit, mentoring cadets in combat intelligence and strategic analysis. Following his service, Nimrod joined HaShomer HaChadash and worked in agriculture in the fields of Ein HaBesor. At RU, he is an active member of the Debate Club, representing the university in national and international competitions. Nimrod also participated in the Consulting, Behavioral Economics, Venture Capital, and Entrepreneurship Clubs, and co-led the 2024 Pitch Night. After October 7th, he volunteered in RU’s emergency HQ, coordinating donations for IDF soldiers. Nimrod has held sales roles at early-stage tech startups. He is a Birthright Excel Fellow and a graduate of the Mentors and UpStart programs. Nimrod aspires to strengthen Israeli society through mental health access and innovation.

  • Matan Schwartz

    (1999, Israel), Government


    Matan was born in Ra’anana to American parents and raised with a deep connection to both Israeli society and American Jewry. After high school, he spent a gap year at the Shalom Hartman Institute, where he engaged with Jewish thought, Israeli identity, and interned with the former Chair of the Knesset Finance Committee. Matan then served in the Israeli Air Force (IAF) Spokesperson’s Unit, where he led the international media team and managed foreign press relations, and continues to serve in the reserves. As a government student at RU, he is active in the Negotiation Club, Young Pugwash Israel, and the Mentors Program. Matan has represented Israel abroad as a counselor in the Ramah Movement and on the national baseball team, and is an avid marathon runner and passionate musician. He is motivated by a sense of responsibility to remain curious, honest, and serve where he can make a difference. 

  • Eitan Sermoneta

    (2000, Italy), Psychology (International School)


    Eitan born and raised in Rome, Italy, is a psychology student at RU, with a diverse background in leadership, Jewish education, and international community engagement. He served as a paratrooper in the IDF 890 Battalion and is currently an active reservist. Eitan has coordinated VIP trips across Israel and held leadership positions in Bnei Akiva Italy, overseeing international camps and weekly programming for youth. He has also managed large-scale digital communities in the NFT sector. Eitan volunteers with “Ach Gadol,” supporting lone soldiers. He is a graduate of Mechina “Kol Ami” pre-army leadership program and Bar-Ilan University’s preparatory program. Eitan is fluent in Italian, Hebrew, English, and Spanish. He is committed to strengthening global Jewish identity and promoting collaboration across Diaspora communities through education, shared values, and strategic initiatives.

  • Shani Sheinblat

    (1998, Israel), Law and Government, Dean’s List


    Shani was raised in Tel Aviv and is a graduate of the “Kol Ami” pre-army leadership program. She served for five years in the IDF Home Front Command, completing her service as a captain. In her final role, Shani served as district officer for the Haifa Bay region, leading emergency preparedness across eight local authorities and coordinating civilian operations during COVID-19. She remains an active reservist. Shani volunteered with the Michal Sela Forum, where she coordinated a project providing protection dogs to women at risk of domestic violence. At RU, she participates in the honors program in law and the Düsseldorf Program. Shani served as vice chair of the Debate Club and represents RU in national and international debate tournaments. She will intern at the securities department of the State Attorney’s Office and aspires to use the law as a tool for justice, integrity, and impactful public service.

  • Adina Valman

    (2000, Israel), Law and Government


    Adina was born and raised in Ra’anana. She majored in film at a performing arts school, and her movie was screened at the Jerusalem Film Festival. Adina completed her National Service at the Knesset as a tour guide and later as the official photographer. At RU, she has participated in the International Humanitarian (IHL) Law Clinic and IHL Competition, Debate Club, Political Excellence Program, Shadow Government, StandWithUs, and Diploact. She interned in both legal and public diplomacy roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Justice. Adina also gained experience in journalism as a production assistant for WION’s Middle East correspondent. She has been involved in youth and community initiatives, including serving as a counselor at the Hartman Institute's Mechina, Telfed and “Beit Midrash Yisraeli.” Adina aspires to serve as a legal advocate for Israel in the international arena, advancing its interests through diplomacy and legal expertise. 

  • Eden Ziv

    (1999, Israel), Government


    Eden was born in Jerusalem and raised in Ra'anana. Before his military service, he dedicated a gap year to volunteering in south Tel Aviv, where he worked on educational programs and supported youth in underprivileged communities. During his service in the IDF, Eden served as a combat officer in the elite “Duvdevan” Commando Unit. He continues to serve as a team commander in the IDF reserves. At RU, Eden is currently pursuing his degree in government, diplomacy, and strategy, specializing in security and counter-terrorism studies. He is passionate about strengthening Israel’s national security and global diplomatic standing and aspires to build a meaningful career in public service and strategic affairs. In his free time, Eden enjoys staying active through gym training and martial arts, spending time with friends, and traveling, especially throughout Israel.