A group of Canadian professionals has joined the Halutz Initiative at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, BGU’s global leadership program focused on the future of the Negev.
Now in its fifth year, Halutz brings together individuals from around the world for a yearlong experience that includes virtual learning and an intensive seminar in Israel. Participants engage directly with BGU scholars, researchers, and regional leaders to better understand the challenges and opportunities shaping Israel’s south.
The program is designed to strengthen leadership capacity, deepen connection to Israel, and translate commitment into meaningful action.
BGU Canada is proud to introduce the 2026 Canadian Halutz Cohort, a group united by professional excellence and a shared interest in the future of the Negev.
A cohort defined by leadership and purpose
From business and technology to education and storytelling, the Canadian Halutz cohort reflects the depth and diversity of leadership shaping Israel’s future.
Andre Ohana
Andre Ohana (Montreal) is the President of Pa-Co Lighting, a leading manufacturer of specification-grade LED luminaires. Andre is excited to deepen his connection to Israel by learning firsthand about BGU’s impact on the Negev, exploring the region, and gaining insight from world-class scholars.
Alex Jacobs-Hajian
Alex Jacobs-Hajian (Vancouver) is a technology strategy professional at a global technology firm, where he advises C-suite executives on digital transformation and AI adoption. An electrical engineer with an MBA, Alex is drawn to Halutz by its academic rigor and its focus on strengthening Israel’s south.
Ishi Dinim
Ishi Dinim (Vancouver), s a filmmaker and photographer with over two decades of experience working across feature films, documentaries, and independent productions. A lifelong community volunteer and grassroots organizer, Ishi is deeply engaged in issues of education, peace, and modern Jewish life. He sees the Halutz Initiative as a space where leadership development and storytelling intersect.
Joanna Richler
Joanna Richler (Toronto) is an Account Director in programmatic digital advertising, leading data-driven campaigns and managing the Canadian Account Management team. She holds a Bachelor of Management from Dalhousie University and a postgraduate degree in Corporate Communications from Seneca College. Joanna is especially interested in seeing BGU’s work supporting students, surrounding communities, and freed hostages following the war.
Raffey Levitt-Pinsky
Raffey Levitt-Pinsky (Winnipeg) is an educator with nearly a decade of classroom experience and academic training in Education and History. A passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish education, he has extensive experience teaching these subjects and fostering fact-based dialogue in classrooms, universities, and community settings.
Why the Negev, and why now
The Negev is where Israel’s future is being built. Through the Halutz Initiative, participants engage directly with the scholars, scientists, and community leaders driving innovation and resilience across the region.
The program offers firsthand insight into both the challenges and the promise of Israel’s south, and the central role of Ben Gurion University of the Negev in shaping its growth.
BGU Canada is proud to support the 2026 Canadian Halutz Cohort as they join a global community committed to strengthening the Negev and Israel’s future.
2024 Halutz intiative participants
Learn more about the Halutz Initiative.
