Ivonne and the Conference of Presidents Program
Interested in Becoming a Future NA’AMAT Ambassador?
NA’AMAT USA looks for emerging leaders who are committed to Jewish communal life and interested in representing our mission within broader leadership spaces.
NA’AMAT USA is proud to celebrate Ivonne as our Ambassador in the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations Ambassadors Program for Emerging Leaders, a nationally recognized leadership initiative that brings together emerging voices from across the American Jewish community.
“Leadership for me is deeply personal. My journey into
Jewish communal life has shaped how I see
community and responsibility”
Representing NA’AMAT—an organization that uplifts women, children, and families across Israel—felt especially meaningful as she stepped into this broader national conversation.
Ivonne joined the inaugural cohort in New York City for an intensive kickoff summit centered on dialogue, listening, and collaborative leadership. Participants explored Jewish communal history, leadership traditions, demographic trends shaping Jewish life, and practical skills for engaging across differing viewpoints. Sessions with educators, diplomats, and communal leaders emphasized empathy, respectful disagreement, and the responsibility of leadership in a complex moment for Jewish communities.
One powerful moment stood out to her during the summit:
“When we shared personal objects and the stories behind them,
I realized how listening and vulnerability create trust.”
She also deeply appreciated the focus on constructive disagreement — “the idea that respectful challenge strengthens us rather than divides us.”
Through the Conference of Presidents program, ambassadors engage in leadership development experiences that strengthen their ability to build relationships, foster constructive dialogue, and represent their organizations within a broader communal landscape. For NA’AMAT USA, Ivonne’s participation strengthens our connection to national Jewish leadership spaces while bringing new insight and perspective back into our work.
The experience connects closely to NA’AMAT’s mission. “NA’AMAT works with diverse communities across Israel — women, children, and families from different cultural and social backgrounds,” Ivonne explains. “Dialogue is not abstract; it is part of building real support systems for real people.” The skills emphasized throughout the program — listening across differences and engaging with integrity — directly support this work.
Looking ahead, Ivonne is eager to continue building relationships with peers from major Jewish organizations across the country while learning from national Jewish leaders and those with experience in diplomacy and public service.
“The combination of peer connection and learning from experienced leaders makes this program especially meaningful”
NA’AMAT’s involvement in this program reflects our commitment to cultivating thoughtful leaders who can bridge communities, listen deeply, and contribute to meaningful collaboration. In a time of polarization and complexity, leadership development is more important than ever. As Ivonne shares, “We can hold strong values while still honoring the dignity of others — and that balance feels especially important now.”
Ivonne returns energized and inspired, equipped with new tools and relationships that will continue to shape her leadership and enrich our organization.
Why It Matters to NA’AMAT
Our Ambassadors serve as bridges between NA’AMAT USA and the wider Jewish leadership ecosystem. They return with insights, relationships, and strategies that strengthen our programming, outreach, and community engagement while elevating NA’AMAT’s presence in national leadership spaces.
How to Become a NA’AMAT Ambassador
We look for emerging leaders who demonstrate:
• Commitment to Jewish communal life
• Strong communication and listening skills
• Curiosity and openness to diverse perspectives
• Interest in leadership development
• Dedication to representing NA’AMAT’s mission
Leadership is a shared responsibility. Our Ambassador initiative ensures NA’AMAT USA continues to grow through thoughtful, prepared, and connected leaders.
We are honored to have Ivonne representing NA’AMAT USA and look forward to the continued impact of this experience.
