Behind President Isaac Herzog’s global search for the next ‘Voice of the People’ cohort

President Isaac Herzog's "Voice of the People" initiative, a global Jewish leadership program, has opened applications for its second cohort. Supported by Herzog's office, the World Zionist Organization, the Jewish Agency for Israel, and philanthropic partners, the initiative aims to connect Jews from diverse backgrounds to address shared challenges like antisemitism and polarization. The new cohort will include 150 participants: 50 from Israel, 50 from the US and Canada, and 50 from other Diaspora communities. Applicants must be Jewish, at least 21, proficient in English, and willing to engage in collaborative leadership work. The application deadline is October 12.

“The strength of the Jewish people has always come from our ability to remain connected across differences of geography, tradition and perspective,” Herzog stated.

The program emphasizes building trust and fostering practical cooperation, with over 20 initiatives from the first cohort reaching the proof-of-concept stage. Deborah Apeloig, an inaugural member, highlighted the program's lasting impact, stating, “Voice of the People is not only these two years that I have spent in the council - it's going to be forever a part of me and my work.” CEO Shirel Dagan-Levy noted that the initiative helps participants learn from different approaches to common problems, promoting a model of "generous leadership" by sharing ideas and data.