.png)
THE ISRAELI ANNUAL CONFERENCE FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT & AID
In memory of Dr. Yehuda Paz
Thank you to the more than 450 professionals who took part in the SID Israel Annual Conference!
Your presence and active participation allow us to continue building a professional, learning, and connected community.
As keynote speaker Max Vielle noted in his opening remarks, there is no place or time more suitable to discuss the future of the field than in Israel in 2026, a period that compels us to re-examine humanitarian systems and the way they operate. The meeting between professional insights and personal stories emphasized that humanitarian work is not merely theoretical; it directly impacts the ability of communities to recover and grow.
At the opening of the conference, Keith and Aviva Siegal reminded us that at the core of this work lies a simple human commitment: the choice not to look away from the suffering of others and to act for concrete change on the ground, understanding that the only way to build a secure future is by preserving human dignity and compassion even in difficult times.
The insights from the discussions and professional panels pointed to a clear trend toward more localized and technological models, where Israel has the tools to influence solutions in climate and entrepreneurship and to promote aid based on human respect. Ultimately, the conference discussions highlighted that our added value as a professional community lies in the ability to connect field-based knowledge with flexibility and innovation.
We conclude this gathering with new perspectives and a commitment to continue developing the partnerships formed here, ensuring our work remains effective and responsive to changing needs.
See you next year!
SID-ISrael Team
.png)
Awards
The SID Israel Recognition Awards ceremony, held in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is dedicated to expressing appreciation for professional work carried out with persistence, creating a real and lasting impact. In a conference focused on forward-thinking, this is an opportunity to recognize that the future is built upon a sequence of decisions, partnerships, and hard work that lays the infrastructure and expands the field's scope of action.
This year, we will honor both long-standing achievements and recent initiatives that have successfully adapted to a turbulent reality while cultivating new opportunities. We will present awards to two organizations for their activities, a Lifetime Achievement Award, and, in line with this year's conference theme, a special award for promoting innovation in the field of international development.
צילום: אביגיל עוזי
Shoshan Haran, PhD
Lifetime Achievement Award
This award recognizes her enduring commitment to improving the lives of smallholder farmers in Africa through the founding and leadership of Fair Planet for over a decade, and her development of an innovative model for sustainable agriculture. Shoshan has successfully transformed the experience and knowledge accumulated in Israel, particularly in seed technology and desert agriculture, into a powerful engine for change in developing nations.
Alongside her work on the ground, Shoshan has built deep collaborations with universities, government ministries, seed companies, and international organizations, influencing agricultural policy in target countries. Simultaneously, she has made a unique contribution to the advancement of the international development field within Israel, by training the next generation of professionals, bridging the gap between academia and the field, and setting a high standard for ethics, partnership, and respect for local communities.
Her professional and personal path, characterized by persistence, humility, and a profound belief in the ability to create change from the ground up, even during exceptionally challenging times, serves as a distinct example of "Tikkun Olam in practice" and an inspiration to the entire community.
Aliza Inbal, PhD
Award for Innovation in International Development
For over two decades, Aliza has led formative and diverse initiatives: through public service at MASHAV, consulting for international organizations, establishing the Pears Program within civil society, and conducting in-depth academic research at Tel Aviv University. In all these endeavors, Aliza has demonstrated a unique ability to translate forward-thinking into an applied, responsible, and impact-based language.
By founding and leading groundbreaking programs, developing models for training development entrepreneurs, and advising global policy bodies, Aliza was among the first to bridge technology, policy, and social impact. She recognized the inherent potential in promoting innovation specifically within the field of international development. Her consistent work in building the conceptual, professional, and institutional infrastructure that connects Israeli innovation with real global needs continues to influence a new generation of professionals today, setting a clear vision for the future of the field in Israel and worldwide.
צילום: מהנדסים ללא גבולות-ישראל
Engineers Without Borders - Israel
Distinguished Organization Award
Presented for professional, values-driven, and sustained leadership in the field of international development, specifically in engineering, healthcare, assistive technologies, and community resilience, with an emphasis on fostering local partnerships, capacity building, and ensuring sustainability.
Operating as part of a broad international movement, the organization has led a diverse range of projects in Israel and worldwide for years. These initiatives create a tangible impact on the lives of target communities by developing engineering and technological solutions tailored to the local context.
In 2025, the organization distinguished itself by successfully and sustainably integrating the full operations of a closing organization, thereby strengthening the entire ecosystem. Furthermore, following the events of October 7th, 2023, the organization expanded its activity into Israel to provide accessible solutions for war-wounded individuals. By combining this work with the training of the next generation of professionals through student engagement, its activities in Israel and abroad continue to generate significant and long-term impact.
.
Arava Institute for Environmental Studies
Distinguished Organization Award
For its long-standing contribution to sustainable international development, combining professional excellence, regional partnerships, and long-term impact. As a leading institution in the fields of environment, water, and energy, the Arava Institute works to strengthen local capacities and promote cross-border collaborations within a complex and sensitive reality.
The Institute’s activities combine academic and applied excellence with local capacity building, professional training, and the creation of spaces for cooperation. In 2025, the Institute stood out for its significant humanitarian aid in Gaza, through the establishment and implementation of sustainable solutions for water, sanitation, and energy challenges, built in full partnership with local communities.
This work joins years of ongoing regional activity based on accumulated knowledge, the building of local and international partnerships, and the dissemination of expertise. It demonstrates an exceptional ability to bridge the gap between emergency response and long-term development, creating a foundation for lasting impact.
Conference Gallery
9:00
Registration, Networking & Futuristic Exhibition
An opportunity to meet, engage in professional conversation, and spend time exploring an exhibition that examines the future of international aid and development
9:45
Opening Remarks
Keith & Aviva Seigel
Ayelet Levin-Karp, CEO, SID-Israel
Ahava Bensabath, Community Manager, SID-Israel
10:15
The Future of Aid: Are We Ready for the Global Shifts Ahead?
Old Dilemmas, New Realities, and What Comes Next
Max Vieille, CEO, Response Innovation Lab
10:45
From Global Trends to Israeli Dilemmas
With: Max Vieille, CEO, Response Innovation Lab
Michal Bruck, CEO, NALA
Shay Bialik, SID-Israel Board Member
11:15
Coffee Break
11:30
SID SHORTS (Bite-sized lectures)
Featuring: Tomer Bariach, CEO, Textile Credit
Yotam Polizer, CEO, IsraAID
Roni Levy, Head of Venture Builiding & Early-Stage Innovation, Nura
Charmaine Hedding, President, Shai Fund
Yau Levy, CEO, Rural Senses
Ophelie Namiech, CEO, Mindset-PCS
12:30
2026 Awards & Lifetime Achievement Ceremony
Zafrir Asaf, Chair of the Board, SID-Israel
13:00
Lunch
13:30
Research SessionNetworking | Exhibition Visit
Presentations of recent and emerging research in the field.
Introducing key questions, directions, and processes shaping current professional knowledge, with:
13:30 Caylee Talpert
13:45 Ariel Aviram
14:00 Eshel Lev OR
14:15 Renana Geldman Tavens-Eye to Eye
14:30 Natan Shata-NALA
14:45 Yaeli Nevo (Benovich)
15:00
Closing
Agenda
SID Israel’s annual conference combines professional discussions, research presentations, short talks, and opportunities for dialogue and networking, alongside a forward looking exhibition. Throughout the day, we will explore key challenges and trends in international aid and development, exchange knowledge and experience, and create opportunities for professional connections and shared learning
Max Vieille, Global Director, Response Innovation Lab (RIL)
Keynote Speaker
Max Vieille is the Global Director of the Response Innovation Lab (RIL). Previously, he worked with the UN, major humanitarian NGOs, and private contractors, specializing in Emergency Response, MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning), Disaster Risk Reduction, and Strategic Planning, with field experience in Haiti and Madagascar. He is also an adjunct professor of international relations at SciencesPo Lille, a Google Startups for Sustainable Development Advisor, and a former member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Fragility and Resilience. Max has advised USAID, the Dutch Relief Alliance, Danish Refugee Council, and Save the Children International on innovation policy in complex emergencies. He holds a Master’s in Diplomatic Studies from the University of Westminster and a Graduate Diploma in Development Administration from ANU.
Shay Bialik, Board of Directors, SID-Israel
Panel-From Global Trends to Israeli Dilemmas: The Questions That Keep Us Awake at Night
Shay Bialik is the Global Director – Head of Sustainability and Impact at the Strauss Group. She specializes in sustainable development and international collaboration. Previously, she served as a consultant for economic and social affairs in the Israeli delegations to the UN, OECD, UNESCO, and the Council of Europe, representing Israel in the OECD’s Development Assistance Committee. Shay holds a master’s in development policy and economic analysis from The New School and a bachelor’s in history and international relations from Hebrew University and Sciences Po. In 2023, she was recognized as a UN SDG Pioneer.
Michal Bruck, CEO, NALA
Panel-From Global Trends to Israeli Dilemmas: The Questions That Keep Us Awake at Night
Michal Bruck is a strategic leader in international development and social activism with over 20 years of experience driving system-wide change within the humanitarian sector. As CEO of NALA, she leads efforts to eliminate neglected tropical diseases through a holistic model integrating community-led behavior change and innovation into national health systems. Previously, Michal spent six years at the UN World Food Programme, leading strategic partnerships and shaping the global logistics cluster strategy. She is an expert in multi-stakeholder collaboration across humanitarian systems. Michal is also a social activist, co-founding Kulna Yaffa and serving on the board of Madad.
Yotam Polizer, CEO, IsraAID
Humanitarian Diplomacy
Yotam is the CEO of IsraAID, leading a global team of over 300 staff and volunteers operating in 14 countries, including large-scale responses in Ukraine. A 2023 Charles Bronfman Award recipient, he has 15 years of experience in education, humanitarian aid, and international development, and has led missions across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Yau Levi, CEO, Rural Senses
On AI and Development
Yau is co-founder and CEO of Rural Senses, developing AI solutions for social and environmental impact measurement used by organizations like the Mastercard Foundation. An expert in Impact Innovation, he previously led MobileODT’s AI team for early cervical cancer detection and co-founded SolarChange, integrating solar energy with blockchain. Yau holds a B.Sc. in Biophysics and an M.Eng. in Sustainable Development, and advises and speaks on impact and sustainability globally.
Ophélie Namiach, CEO, Mindset-PCS
The Future of Israeli Aid Organizations
Ophélie is a humanitarian thinker, system-change activist, and social entrepreneur with 20 years’ experience across UN agencies, NGOs, donors, and impact-driven companies. Founder of Mindset-PCS, she helps organizations reshape decision-making, partnerships, funding flows, and sector values. Formerly leading IsraAID in South Sudan, she now advises globally on humanitarian innovation, Israeli crisis response, and people-centered system change.
Tomer Bariach, CEO, Textile Credit
Technology, Horses, and the Redefinition of Success
Tomer Bariach is a father of two. Entrepreneur and investor focused on building a better supply chain of credit to emerging markets. Mediocre artist.
Rony Levy, Nura Global Innovation Lab
The Leapfrogging Question: Africa as a Leader in Climate Adaptation
Roni Levy is a multidisciplinary sustainable development professional working at the intersection of environmental sustainability, purpose-driven business, and international development. With over a decade of experience across Africa, Asia-Pacific, and global contexts, she leads venture building and early-stage innovation at Nura Global Innovation Lab and co-leads the Pears Challenge. Roni specializes in climate resilience, inclusive innovation, and regenerative practices.
Charmaine Hedding, President, SHAI FUND
Christian Philanthropy for Development
Charmaine Hedding is a humanitarian leader with over 20 years’ experience operating in conflict and crisis zones. Founder and president of Shai Fund, she has led emergency response, evacuations, and protection operations across the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia. She works to engage Christian and evangelical philanthropy in support of humanitarian responses in Israel and globally, applying anticipatory, field-driven decision-making to navigate prolonged crises, political fragmentation, and systemic risk.
The Speakers
-Easier Said Than Done
Insights from the past decade on how Israeli technology companies can build scalable, sustainable and financially successful businesses in Africa
Caylee Talpert
The study examines how Israeli technology companies build scalable, sustainable businesses in Africa through partnerships, localization, business model innovation, and aligned financing, generating lasting development impact alongside financial performance outcomes.
A Satisficing and dynamic food-energy-water nexus approach to sustainability
Ariel Aviram
The research proposes a new Food Energy Water model for off grid communities, defining safe boundaries, examining local trade offs, and strengthening practical, long term sustainability with limited external influence
TOV : Scaling What Works—and Making It Last
Eshel Lev OR- JDC TOV
The research explores how private, public, and philanthropic sectors come together to scale a market-driven program, transforming lives of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia
Eye to Eye: Developing Sustainable Knowledge to Transform Autism Care in Ethiopia
Renana Geldman Tavens-Eye to Eye
Eye to Eye research proposes a structured training program for pediatric residents in three public hospitals in Addis Ababa. The study will assess changes in knowledge, diagnostic capacity, and ASD diagnoses before and after the training, and share findings with policymakers to support autism training and cross-sector collaboration
From Eye to AI: Advancing Diagnosis of Intestinal Parasites in Low-Prevalence Settings
Natan Shata-NALA
The research tests an AI powered microscope in NALA’s fieldwork to improve parasite diagnosis in low-prevalence ares. The research tests an AI pow-pow-ered microscope in NALA’s fieldwork to improve parasite diagnosis in low-prevalence areas, strengthening surveillance, reducing health worker burden, and supporting sustainable disease elimination efforts
How the Future is Perceived: Climate Shocks, Time Perception, and Development Work
Yaeli Nevo (Benovich)
The talk explores how climate shocks shape the way people experience the future
Rather than focusing only on accessibility, it highlights time perception as a key element of future-oriented thinking in development work.
.jpg)
Research Session
A series of short talks presenting new research in international aid and development, recently conducted or set to begin in the coming year
About SID-Israel
SID-Israel is the umbrella organization of the Israeli professional community in international development and humanitarian aid, bringing together civil society organizations, government institutions, academic and research programs, private companies, consultants, and independent experts.
We work to create a supportive professional environment, based on the exchange of knowledge and experience, creating a clear roadmap for Israeli action in the world, education and training, cross-sector professional development, as well as raising awareness of the topic among the general public and decision makers.
.png)
Getting there
Time
Tuesday 20/01/26, 09:00-16:00
Location
Daniel Frisch St 1, Tel Aviv-Yafo
Waze: ZOA House, 1 Daniel Frisch St., Tel Aviv
Parking:
Naot Aviv Parking:
Enter via Paz – Naot Aviv
7 Dubnov St., Tel Aviv
Drive down into Naot Aviv Parking.
Elevator to Entrance A – exit to Ibn Gvirol St.
Elevator to Entrance C – exit to Shaul HaMelech St.
Parking at 3 Daniel Frisch St.:
Please note: instructions are updated on the “Central Park” parking website.
Public transportation:
Bus lines from Savidor Central Railway Station: 142 / 82
Bus lines from HaShalom Railway Station: 8 / 62
**About a 10-minute walk from HaShalom Railway Station
