Israel’s secret weapon
New immigrant actors, models fighting for Israel online
Amid the challenges that Israel faces during the war with Hamas, many young olim (new immigrants), who are alumni of Masa Israel Journey, stepped forward to use their influential platforms to shed light on events in the region.
From Hollywood actresses and models to prominent podcast hosts, these voices aimed to inform a global audience.
Ketura Andersen, @Kasturiworld on Instagram, who was a Masa Teaching Fellow and had transitioned to teach English in Israeli schools, became one of the leading voices from the Diaspora.
With an impressive following of over a million on Instagram, Andersen had been previously recognized for her contributions to Hollywood in various capacities, including as an actress, model, singer, and even as a producer and assistant director for blockbusters such as Spiderman.
However, a shift in her content reflected her deeper connection to Israel. Having made aliyah the previous month, Andersen proudly proclaimed her new status as a full Israeli citizen. “I was visiting the US before the war broke out. But I’m returning to Israel. This is my home now,” Andersen said in a statement released by Masa Israel Journey. She dedicated her platform to sharing news about Israel, emphasizing the need for global awareness.
India Persaud, another notable name from the Masa alumni group, engaged her 40,000-strong Instagram followers with updates on Israel. Her call to action? She urged Americans
to advocate for Israel by contacting their elected representatives.
Meanwhile, Margot Touitou, who had made her home in Israel a few years back after her stint with the Masa Career Program, told her international of nearly 27,000 on Instagram and a popular English podcast: “I’ve recently begun to share more, and I undoubtedly plan to use my platform for Israel’s benefit.”
Masa’s extensive alumni network of some 200,000 members reflects the breadth and depth of global connections to Israel. Responding to the times, Masa’s initiative brought together activists and influencers on social media. Their mission was clear: to provide a continuous stream of accurate information about events in Israel.
Ofer Gutman, the CEO of
Masa Israel Journey, shared the organization’s perspective: “We at Masa are deeply disturbed by Hamas’s actions against innocent Israelis. As we stand with our 5,700 fellows in Israel and our 200,000 alumni worldwide, our collective aim is to enlighten the world about the ongoing situation. Like many in this nation, Masa’s commitment is unwavering. We strive to fortify Israel. Am Israel Hai!”