Impact Report 2025
Introduction
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Over the past year, our staff and tenacious students have reached unprecedented new heights.
Allied Voices for Israel (AVI) extends beyond Jewish student life, offering workshops in public and Catholic schools, building coalitions on campuses with diverse cultural and faith groups, and creating shared voices of unity. We also connect students to Israel and work with them to advocate for Israel and human rights on dozens of campuses across Canada.
Our work also extends beyond Canada, bringing Jewish and non-Jewish students to Israel to experience its diversity and meet with journalists, politicians, and human rights experts fighting for change. On campus, we amplify student voices through our Common Ground and Voices of Change programs, uniting students of all backgrounds against antisemitism and hate.
We have led vital initiatives with First Nations, Hindu, Christian, Iranian, and Catholic leaders; reached thousands of students through our workshops at Jewish, public and private schools; led our Common Ground missions in Israel and Italy, bringing together student advocates for Israel, Jewish and non-Jewish alike on 15 campuses across Canada; and worked with students to elevate their voices through media outlets such as The National Post, The Toronto Star, and The Toronto Sun.
We have also traversed new grounds in 2025 - we created Jewish and Christian unity events with students in Calgary and Vancouver; hosted “Ask Me Anything” tablings with Jewish and Hindu students at the University of Toronto, and with a Holocaust survivor at Concordia University; launched a new podcast featuring Muslim, Hindu, and Indigenous voices; Distributed awards to two dozen AVI student leaders at our First Annual Herzl Awards; and so many more initiatives, which we are proud and excited to share with you in this comprehensive report.
None of this would be possible without you. By supporting AVI, you are fuelling a movement that empowers young leaders to confront hatred with courage, compassion, and unity.
Am Yisrael Chai!
Daniel Koren
Founder & Executive Director
Allied Voices for Israel (AVI)
Matthew Friedberg
Chair of the Board
Allied Voices for Israel (AVI)
At A Glance
24,684
Participants Reached
270
Workshops & Programs
Over
300
Partner Groups
8 Provinces Impacted
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35,000+
Combined Digital Followers
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Allyship Highlights
AVI is grounded in the belief that meaningful coalition-building is key to addressing anti-Jewish hatred and all forms of hate on and beyond campus. We are committed to principled allyship—one that never requires students to compromise or disavow a fundamental part of their identity, including the expectation that Jewish students renounce their connection to or support for Israel in order to be accepted.
Over the past year, we have been proud to partner with a wide range of communities, extending far beyond the Jewish community. We are deeply grateful to our allies across First Nations, Hindu, Christian, Iranian, Catholic, and Ethiopian communities, among many others. Thank you for standing with us and helping build a more inclusive and united community.
Iranian & Jewish students stand against oppression
In November, AVI organized a solidarity gathering at Tehranto Restaurant bringing together Jewish and Iranaian students at York University, in partnership with the York U Liberals and SSI York. This community-building dinner at fostered dialogue and cross-cultural connections.
AVI hosted a solidarity dinner at Tehranto Restaurant with Jewish and Iranian students at York University, affirming our support for Iranian voices and community connection amid a period of widespread political and social unrest in Iran.
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Bringing Christian & Jewish students together
In October and November, AVI hosted Jewish & Christian unity events in Calgary and Vancouver, bringing students together with key partners to build lasting relationships and strengthen cross-community allyship.
In October, AVI convened Jewish and Christian students with University of Calgary for a community-building bowling night with Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry Canada, Passages, and SSI Calgary. This was followed in November by a Jewish x Christian unity social in with Friends of Israel, the BC Jewish Student Association, and Israel on Campus (IOC), strengthening cross-community solidarity and allyship.
Uniting Ethiopian & Jewish students at York U
In March, AVI hosted a shared dinner at Arada Restaurant, bringing together members of SSI York at York University and the York Ethiopian Student Association to foster dialogue and community connection.
Our students gained meaningful insight into Ethiopian culture and the rich, unique history of Ethiopian Jewry. We look forward to building on this partnership through future events, and we are proud of our AVI Student Ambassadors, Lotan, Michael, and Bisrat, along with the other student leaders who made this evening possible.
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Bringing students & allies to the Nova Exhibition
With the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ), AVI brought over 150 students, allies, and supporters to Toronto's Nova Music Festival Exhibition in May.
Attendees heard from Nova survivor Tal Ben Dror, whose testimony brought the realities of Oct. 7 into sharp focus, and from AVI Founder and Executive Director Daniel Koren, who shared his personal loss in the Nova massacre. Two AVI Student Ambassadors (one Jewish and one Christian) also reflected on the courage required to stand publicly for Israel today, underscoring the importance of unity and community in the face of rising hostility.
Hindu & Jewish AMA at UofT
In October, AVI’s Allyship Advisor Abhinav and Common Ground Ambassador Lotan spoke with students at University of Toronto’s St. George campus, highlighting the meaningful connections and shared values between Hindu and Jewish communities.
Lotan and Abhinav engaged in meaningful discussions on their experiences, culture, and Israel advocacy, emphasizing allyship. Hindu and Jewish students discuss their shared values, including respect for humanity, and the importance of dialogue and tolerance.
Educational resources distributed at Manitoba First Nations conference
In June, AVI distributed over 135 educational resources on understanding Jewish indigeneity to Israel were distributed to attendees at the International Nations for First Nations Gala at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
First Nations leaders and attendees from various backgrounds enjoyed reading our resources on Jewish indigeneity to Israel, and our glossary of terms on the Arab-Israeli conflict. It is great to see our resources resonating with our allies in First Nations communities from across Canada!
"Over the recent period, our organizations have cultivated a purposeful collaboration grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to truth and reconciliation. AVI has demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique experiences of Indigenous peoples while standing firm in support of Israel and the Jewish community worldwide."
Dr. Sheree Trotter
Director
Indigenous Embassy Jerusalem
Sharing perspectives from Harry LaForme
In November, AVI co-sponsored “An Anishinaabe Zionist’s Perspective on Israel and Indigeneity” at Montreal’s Temple Emanu-El Beth Shalom, featuring Justice Harry LaForme, Canada’s first Indigenous appellate court judge.
In November, AVI co-sponsored “An Anishinaabe Zionist’s Perspective on Israel and Indigeneity” at Montreal’s Temple Emanu-El Beth Shalom, featuring Justice Harry LaForme, Canada’s first Indigenous appellate court judge, sharing his unique perspectives on Israel and Jewish-Indigenous connections.
Uniting Through Laughter with Mark Breslin
In February, AVI hosted “Uniting Through Laughter,” a comedy night with YukYuk’s founder Mark Breslin, bringing together Jewish students and allies in partnership with diverse community groups.
In February, AVI hosted “Uniting Through Laughter,” a comedy night for Jewish students and allies featuring YukYuk’s founder Mark Breslin. The event was held in partnership with CAEF, the Canadian Chinese Political Affairs Committee (CCPAC), the Canadian Organization for Hindu Heritage Education (COHHE), the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), the Council of Muslims Against Antisemitism (CMAA), and Muslims Facing Tomorrow.
Indian Independence Day & Hindu Heritage Month Event
Jean-Luc represented AVI as a speaker at both the IndiYeah Festival celebrating Indian independence in August and a Hindu Heritage Month event in Calgary in November, fostering connections with the Hindu community.
In August, Alberta Campus Advisor and Advocacy Associate Jean-Luc spoke at the IndiYeah Festival, celebrating 79 years of Indian independence. Building on this engagement, in November he was invited to speak at Calgary’s Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall for a Hindu Heritage Month event, hosted by the Coalition of Hindus in North America (CoHNA), further strengthening AVI’s connections with the Hindu community.
Created Jewish-Indigenous solidarity video series
In June, AVI collaborated on a video series with Indigenous leaders exploring connections between Jewish and First Nations communities.
In June, in recognition of Indigenous Heritage Month, AVI partnered with Indigenous Embassy Jerusalem and the Canadian Antisemitism Education Foundation to produce a video series highlighting Indigenous voices. The series explored shared struggles and meaningful points of connection between Jewish and First Nations communities.
Pre-Canada Day BBQ with UofT Conservatives Club
In June, AVI hosted a fun pre-Canada Day BBQ at U of T with MPPs Laura Smith and Stan Cho speaking to students.
In June, AVI hosted a pre-Canada Day BBQ at the University of Toronto in partnership with the Conservatives Club. Students heard from MPPs Laura Smith (Thornhill) and Stan Cho (Willowdale), who shared their perspectives and engaged directly with participants in lively discussion.
AVI alum's powerful speech at interfaith church event
In May, AVI alumnus Justin Chow delivered a viral speech at Toronto’s Interfaith Bridge event, condemning anti-Jewish hatred and advocating for the protection of Jewish voices.
In May, AVI alumnus and former Allyship Advisor Justin Chow delivered a powerful speech at Toronto’s Interfaith Bridge event, “Then/Now: A Night to Remember.” His inspiring address, which went viral, condemned anti-Jewish hatred on campus and called for the protection of Jewish voices alongside those of other minority communities.
Campus Initiatives
Ambassadors begin their Common Ground journey with a 10-day training program in Israel, where they are introduced to the country’s rich diversity and hear from a wide range of Israelis (Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and others) working toward peace and coexistence. After returning to campus, participants complete the requirements of their Common Ground Ambassadorship, applying their skills and knowledge while joining a nationwide network of like-minded advocates and alumni across Canada
AVI’s students and team in British Columbia led a vibrant year of campus engagement at the University of British Columbia. In September, BC Campus Advisor Stefanie Broit hosted a bagel lunch for students, and AVI partnered with Chabad UBC for an apples-and-honey cake bake in celebration of Rosh Hashanah, followed by the “Roll With Knowledge” sushi and trivia night with Hillel.
In October, AVI, alongside alumna Zara and StandWithUs Canada, engaged students in conversation about building a better tomorrow to mark the release of all 20 living hostages. In November, Common Ground Ambassadors Matthew and Joseph led a creative “Hebrews and Hip Hop” tabling, and in December, AVI students celebrated Hanukkah with a festive dreidel-decorating event in partnership with Hillel UBC.
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Common Ground Summer '25
This summer, AVI’s Common Ground Ambassadors participated in an immersive educational program in Italy focused on Jewish indigeneity to Israel, following a rapid program pivot in response to the outbreak of the 12-day war. Seventeen students—over half of them allies—took part in guided learning across Venice, Verona, Florence, Rome, and Vatican City. The program highlighted centuries of Jewish presence in Europe and enduring ties to the Land of Israel, from Venice’s historic Jewish Quarter to the Arch of Titus in Rome. Students explored themes of allyship through historical symbols, examined firsthand accounts such as Moise Vita Cafsuto’s 18th-century travels to the Levant, and concluded with a Vatican visit examining both historical context and modern efforts toward interfaith dialogue and coexistence.
Avery
Common Ground Ambassador
I think Ela’s testimony and involvement when visiting the Nova site was great at bringing up vulnerability within our group which helped us connect more. And I loved our talks with Ihab and Khaled and wish we got to stay longer, especially with Khaled, as I think his history of reporting + how it’s changed over the years is a critical window into the complexity of Israeli-Palestinian relations.
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Gracie
Common Ground Ambassador
As we stand against evil and the recent surge of antisemitism around the world - especially on our university campuses - I know that it is important to advocate for truth and show support and solidarity with the Jewish people. I am very honoured and excited to be actively supporting Israel as an AVI Ambassador this year.
Common Ground Winter '25
This winter, AVI’s Common Ground Ambassadors participated in an immersive educational program in Israel and Canada, exploring Jewish indigeneity, intercultural connections, and advocacy in action. Students from across Canada joined us in Israel, meeting Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and engaging with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hearing from an Arab-Israeli journalist, and experiencing the diverse city of Ramle. In Sderot, former IDF officer Col. Res. Grisha Yakubovich briefed students on southern border security and current geopolitics. Participants bore witness at Re'im, the site of the Nova Music Festival massacre, meeting survivor Ela Levogoren, and toured the underground headquarters of Magen David Adom, learning from interfaith first responders about the defense of Israel’s blood and human milk banks. Students also explored Ethiopian heritage in Tel Aviv, Druze culture in the Carmel village of Ussafiya, and reflected on historical and contemporary perspectives on Jewish indigeneity. Following visa-related adjustments, nine Ambassadors continued their program with an educational retreat in Niagara Falls in January 2026, where they further honed their advocacy and leadership skills and engaged with diverse speakers to deepen their understanding of Israel and Jewish identity.
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In the Media
Explore compelling pieces written by our talented students over the past year. Our final cohort of 12 Campus Media Fellows powerfully shared their lived experiences while advocating for Israel and confronting anti-Jewish hatred on campus.
Collectively, AVI students were published in more than 10 news outlets, with additional coverage—including quotes and mentions from AVI staff, students, and allies—appearing in nearly 20 outlets overall. Highlights include AVI student Liat’s National Post article on the safety of Jewish students at TMU amid campus disruptions, and AVI student Lotan being quoted in the National Post regarding his complaint to York University over an alleged student union code of conduct violation involving the designated terrorist entity Samidoun.
Zach
Common Ground Ambassador
It’s much easier to learn about Israel when you are here and you see the people and can experience all the things we are talking about in the workshops. Things feel more tangible and people are more humanized when we can form connections in person and see the real situation on the ground.
AVI leadership amplified our work through key media appearances this year. Founder and Executive Director Daniel Koren appeared on multiple podcasts, including The Honest Report Podcast, IFCJ’s Nourish Your Biblical Roots, and Leaders on the Frontier, discussing Canadian campus developments, Israel advocacy, Bukharian culture, and AVI’s founding.
Noa, AVI’s Director of Quebec and Atlantic Canada, was interviewed on Radio Centre-Ville Montreal with host Paul Lip, highlighting AVI’s initiatives and support for students across Canada.
Launched in 2025, Common Voices is a podcast grounded in the belief that building bridges fosters peace and understanding. Through powerful stories from peace-seeking leaders and everyday individuals. The podcast highlights initiatives that promote coexistence, mutual respect, and meaningful allyship with Israel and the Jewish people- demonstrating how finding common ground allows us to speak in Common Voices.
Over
441
Downloads
Our Debut Season Was More Popular Than
83%
Of Other New Shows On Spotify!
Digital Presence
Thank you to our dedicated community across our social media platforms. Over the past year, AVI has seen a dramatic increase in digital reach and engagement, significantly expanding our ability to connect with students, allies, and supporters nationwide.
Our most substantial growth occurred on Instagram. Below are some highlights that showcase the scale and impact of this growth:
16,645+
Followers
From February to December 2025, Instagram became AVI’s primary growth platform, expanding reach far beyond existing followers and translating content into a rapidly growing, engaged community.
10,000,000+
Total Views
AVI’s Common Roots High School Program engaged students through six national webinars exploring media and social-media bias, allyship in action, Israeli and Palestinian narratives, and effective campus advocacy. The 2024 cohort concluded with an unforgettable closing weekend in May—two days at a cottage filled with hands-on workshops, community-building activities, and a graduation ceremony celebrating students’ growth as advocates. The 2025 cohort launched with an opening weekend focused on icebreakers, educational sessions, and experiential campaigns designed to build coalitions, strengthen Israel advocacy, and combat anti-Jewish hatred. Throughout the year, Common Roots Ambassadors translated learning into action, including student-led tablings such as Anna and Shawn’s Hanukkah trivia and prize event in Victoria. In parallel, AVI’s High School Advisor and Director of Education delivered workshops at public and private schools across Canada, expanding the program’s national reach and impact.
Education
Lia
Common Roots Mentor
My experience with AVI was truly inspirational. Meeting new people with a shared love for Israel was heartwarming and gave me such a good sense of community. I learned how to properly defend my nation against false information and hate. I had so much fun and enjoyed the program and am so glad to be back as a mentor this year.
Our dedicated team delivered educational workshops to audiences ranging from elementary school students to community members across Canada. This year, Director of Education Gabriela led workshops on understanding Israel and combating anti-Jewish hatred in 14 Catholic schools and one public school across Ontario and British Columbia. A standout moment came in April and May, when Gabriela facilitated two in-depth workshops on combating antisemitism for Grade 11 and 12 Genocide Studies classes at Burnaby North Secondary School in Burnaby, B.C. Gabriela, and our team, have led hundreds of workshops over the course of the past year including at BBYO's international conference, Canadian Young Leaders Coalition: Forum on the Future, and a webinar discussing the Nuances of Language for the Winnipeg community.
Earlier in the year, in February, former Allyship Advisor Justin Chow addressed more than 2,000 attendees at a Toronto District School Board meeting ahead of a vote on Affirming Jewish Identities & Addressing Antisemitism, a report outlining recommendations to confront rising anti-Jewish hatred in TDSB schools. Justin urged the Board to treat antisemitism with the same seriousness, care, and urgency afforded to all other forms of hatred.
Toronto Catholic District School Board teachers were asked:
Marking 2 years since October 7
October 7 marked a moment of profound loss for our community, and across Canada, AVI students and supporters came together to mourn, remember, and bear witness. In the days and weeks following the attacks, remembrance took many forms: from our second annual flag-planting ceremony with MPP Michael Kerzner—where 1,219 flags were planted to honour the 1,219 people murdered on October 7, with flags generously provided by the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews—to campus vigils, poetry readings, and memorial tablings led by students at OCAD, McGill, McMaster, York, Guelph, Western, TMU, the University of Calgary, and beyond. Students baked in memory of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, tabled to honour the victims by name and number, and spoke with courage at vigils, including powerful reflections shared by our Common Ground Ambassadors. At TMU, students honoured Canadian victim Ben Mizrachi, killed at the Nova Music Festival. Beyond campus, in the streets of Toronto, we invited passersby to read aloud from Never Again: Allies Speak Out Against Antisemitism, amplifying voices of solidarity in the wake of tragedy. Together, these tributes reflected our commitment to remembrance, community, and ensuring the victims of October 7 are never forgotten.
Key Events
Over the past year, AVI brought together students, community leaders, and supporters through a series of high-impact signature events that strengthened our mission and sustained our work. From the launch of Never Again: Allies Speak Out Against Antisemitism, which amplified the voices of students, alumni, and courageous allies, to sophisticated community gatherings such as our Scotch & Cigars evening in support of campus initiatives, these events created meaningful spaces for connection and advocacy. We proudly celebrated student leadership through the Modern Maccabee Awards and our inaugural Herzl Awards, honouring exceptional courage, integrity, and impact. Our 48-hour matching fundraiser and live telethon exceeded expectations, raising nearly $400,000 to directly support AVI’s growing programs nationwide. Together, these moments reflect a community that shows up to ensure Jewish students are supported and antisemitism is confronted head-on.
Brought Rawan Osman to Vancouver & Montreal
AVI amplified critical conversations on antisemitism and the Middle East through public talks with journalist and ally Rawan Osman in two cities.
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In April, journalist and ally Rawan Osman first spoke in Montreal at an event supported by AVI alongside community partners, with AVI alumni Melanie and Samuel in attendance, offering insight into the Iranian conflict and the broader fight against antisemitism. Later that month, she continued the conversation in British Columbia at Tragic Awakening: A New Look at the World’s Oldest Hatred, further advancing thoughtful dialogue and allyship across communities.
The 1st Annual Herzl Awards
In December, AVI celebrated outstanding student leaders at the inaugural Herzl Awards, recognizing their dedication to combating hatred and misinformation.
In December, AVI hosted the first Herzl Awards, celebrating two dozen student leaders for their advocacy and impact across Canadian campuses and high schools. Highlights included the Michael Mostyn Award, named in memory of the late CEO of B’nai Brith Canada. With energetic hosts Page and Jian Magen, AVI benefactors and stakeholders joined in recognising our Student Ambassadors and alumni whose work fighting antisemitism and misinformation continues to inspire.
Modern Maccabee Awards
In November, AVI Student Ambassadors Liat and Bisrat were recognised with the Modern Maccabee Award for their campus advocacy.
AVI Student Ambassadors Liat and Bisrat received the Modern Maccabee Award at the fifth annual Hanukkah Reception, hosted by the Consulate General of Israel in Toronto & Western Canada in partnership with the Honourable Premier Doug Ford. The award celebrated their outstanding advocacy and leadership on campus, highlighting their commitment to promoting Israel, combating antisemitism, and strengthening student communities.
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Shalom Namaste
In June, AVI hosted a restorative wellness gathering centered on healing, mindfulness, and cross-cultural connection.
AVI brought students and community members together for a wellness experience focused on healing and resilience. The program featured guided restorative yoga and crystal bowl healing led by Rhonda of Mindfulness & the Lotus Studio, power yoga with Neeva, owner of She Pilates & Yoga, and a joyful laughter yoga session led by Ragini & Pooja of the Canadian Organization of Hindu Heritage Education (COHHE). Through movement, breath, and shared reflection, the event created space for renewal and collective well-being during a challenging time.
Scotch & Cigars for Israel
In September, AVI hosted an elegant evening of fine spirits, cigars, and live music, raising support for our campus initiatives.
In September, AVI community members and stakeholders gathered for a sophisticated evening celebrating world-class spirits and cigars while supporting AVI’s essential campus programs. Guests enjoyed expertly prepared fare from Olive Branch, premium scotch selections, and live music by Porch Jam. The event combined enjoyment with purpose, bringing together supporters to advance AVI’s mission of advocacy, education, and community-building on campuses across Canada.
AVI raised
$130,000
AVI raised
$390,000+
AVI Matching Fundraiser
In November, AVI’s 48-hour matching fundraiser, featuring a live telethon, raised a record breaking amount to support our campus initiatives.
AVI hosted a telethon as part of our 48-hour matching fundraiser, featuring Student Ambassadors Coby, Bisrat, and Eyal. The campaign surpassed its goal, raising nearly $400,000 to support AVI’s advocacy, educational programs, and student initiatives on campuses across Canada. The event showcased the dedication and energy of our student leaders while rallying the broader community to invest in AVI’s mission.
"Allies" Speak Out Book Launch
In July, AVI helped launch Never Again: Allies Speak Out Against Antisemitism, an anthology highlighting voices of allyship, with over 250 community members in attendance.
AVI co-launched Never Again: Allies Speak Out Against Antisemitism, a collection of stories and reflections addressing rising antisemitism. Over 250 attendees heard readings from AVI students, alumni, and stakeholders, and a panel with human rights advocate Raheel Raza, Councillor Brad Bradford, and journalist Warren Kinsella. Curated with editor Sharon Zohar, the event combined dialogue, community connection, and opportunities to purchase the anthology, reinforcing that in a time when silence is not an option, never again resounds louder than ever.
Our Board of Directors
Matthew Friedberg, Chair
Nathan Choran, Treasurer
Rhoda Singer, Vice Chair
Jonathan Spiegelman, Secretary
Vivienne Grace Ziner
Our Staff
Daniel Koren, Founder & Executive Director
Noa Peretz Benchaya, Director of Quebec & Atlantic Canada
Gabriela Rosenblum, Director of Education
Idaliah Snajdman, Director of Campus Affairs
Stefanie Broit, British Columbia Campus Advisor
Abhinav Deshwar, Allyship Advisor
Michelle Gorokhovsky, High School Advisor
Sharon Krasni, Communications Associate
Jean-Luc Mudingayi, Alberta Campus Advisor & Advocacy Associate
Ofra Nissani, Operations Consultant
Yardena Rosenblum, Communications & Social Media Coordinator
