For the first time, we gained access to the inner sanctuary of Israeli communication media. Once a year some two thousand media people meet for a four-day event held in Eilat. Everybody shows up – TV, radio and newspaper journalists, writers, editors and commentators. This year, we decided to participate in the convention so as to increase public awareness of our organization's work. Yehuda Maimaran, CEO of Kol Israel Haverim, Hani Mimram, Head of Public Relations, Naama Azulay, Kol Israel Haverim VP of Education, and Daniel Ben Simon, Advisor for Overseas Liaison and Public Relations, represented Kol Israel Haverim.
We reached the conclusion that this type of convention and its participants can provide exceptional exposure to Kol Israel Haverim and its programs. Participants each received a brochure in their personal folders explaining the educational work being done throughout Israel. The blue Kol Israel Haverim – Alliance logo showed up prominently on all the convention publications. We participated in the many publications and panels that took place. Yehuda Maimaran participated in a large panel discussion as did Daniel Ben Simon.
During the four days, we learned who the central actors in the media are and became acquainted with dozens of them. The seeds we planted will surely produce a rich harvest.
On the third day we were joined by Marc Eisenberg, President of Alliance International, and Sam Pinto, Chairman of Kol Israel Haverim. They held personal interviews with senior journalists, exchanged opinions and impressions on Kol Israel Haverim and on education in Israel. The journalists asked questions and our staff replied, and ended up by deciding to stay in touch.
Nearly all the journalists we met exhibited interest and promised to find the opportunity to bring the story of Kol Israel Haverim- Alliance to the general public. It was an unforgettable experience, one that took place in a friendly ambiance. We came to increase public awareness around us and feel that we fulfilled our mission with great success.