A Model of Leadership and Action: “Courage and Heroism Award” Presented to 78 Inspiring Individuals at the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem
To mark Israel’s 78th Independence Day, the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem hosted a special event honoring 78 individuals whose actions, leadership, and commitment to volunteering have made a real difference. The number of recipients was chosen to reflect 78 years of Israeli independence and renewal.
The honorees were selected by young participants from a range of leadership programs, who see them as role models and sources of inspiration for lives rooted in courage and purpose. The awards were presented by Israel Prize laureates Miriam Peretz and Natan Sharansky.
Among those recognized were Nahariya Mayor Ronen Marley, Galilee Medical Center Director Prof. Masad Barhoum, and Noam Soval, an 18-year-old from Nesher who mobilized hundreds of volunteers for emergency response efforts.
Recipients included:
Ronen Marley – Mayor of Nahariya and father of three, who leads the city with a deep sense of responsibility to its residents, focusing on development, recovery, and strengthening the community. He accepted the award on behalf of the people of Nahariya and other northern communities facing an incredibly difficult reality with resilience.
Prof. Masad Barhoum – Director of the Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya and father of three. He has led the center’s growth, expanded access to healthcare for hundreds of thousands, and helped establish the Galilee Faculty of Medicine, advancing a vision of equality, service, and compassion.
Noam Soval – A high school student and member of the Derech Peretz youth movement. From Nesher, Noam has led thousands of teens in emergency and home front support efforts. He received the award together with Shunit Akirav of Ramat Gan, representing Israel’s next generation of volunteers.
The award was presented by the Ein Prat Leadership Academy, Lev Echad, and their partners: Hashomer Hachadash, which includes Adam Ve’adama, Tavor Mechinot, Upper Galilee Mechina, HaEmek Mechina, the Or Movement, Yeshivat Brochin, and Derech Eretz.
The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem is proud to be a home for the spirit of volunteerism, courage, and unity in Israeli society.
