20VC: Israeli Resilience From Tech and Beyond with Michael Eisenberg and Adi Levanon
Oct 12, 2023
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Michael Eisenberg and Adi Levanon discuss the current situation in Israel, the resilience of Israeli citizens, global responses to the conflict, and stories of love and bravery amidst challenging times.
Israeli people have shown incredible resilience and unity in the face of ongoing attacks and personal losses.
There is a strong emphasis on continuing with life and focusing on humanitarian efforts amidst the turmoil.
Deep dives
The resilience and unity of the Israeli people
In the midst of the devastating situation in Israel, the Israeli people have shown incredible resilience and unity. Despite the ongoing attacks and the personal losses many have experienced, they have come together to support each other and help those affected. From setting up centers to provide aid and support, to volunteering and assisting in various ways, the entire country is mobilizing in a collective effort to overcome the challenges they face.
The magnitude of the situation
The scale of the violence and its impact cannot be understated. With over 1,100 casualties and thousands more injured or missing, the loss and devastation are significant. The ongoing attacks and threats from Hamas have created a war-like situation in Israel, with continuous bombings, helicopter and fighter plane activity, and a constant state of vigilance to protect the country from further harm.
Calls for international support and solidarity
Despite the support from some nations and individuals, there is a call for more global support and solidarity in condemning the atrocities committed by Hamas. It is emphasized that this is not just an Israel-Palestine conflict, but a matter of fighting against hate, terrorism, and the spread of violence. The need for individuals, politicians, and tech leaders to speak up against these acts and stand up for what is right is emphasized.
The importance of focusing on humanitarian efforts and resilience
Amidst the turmoil, there is a strong emphasis on continuing with life and focusing on humanitarian efforts. The story of a couple who got married on the Gaza border, surrounded by old soldiers in uniform, symbolizes the resilience and determination of the Israeli people to find joy and carry on with their lives despite the challenges they face. Support and aid for those affected by the violence is crucial, and the tech community is coming together to provide assistance and resources.
Michael Eisenberg spent 15 years as a General Partner @ Benchmark working alongside Bill and the Benchmark partnership. Following Benchmark, Michael co-founded Aleph, one of the leading Israeli venture funds of the last decade with a portfolio including Lemonade, Melio and HoneyBook, just to name a couple of Aleph’s unicorns.
Adi Levanon is the Founder & Managing Partner @ Selah Ventures, a solo-GP-founded venture fund investing $500k checks into AI-based solutions that enhance financial services, healthcare organizations, fintechs, and SMBs, with a focus on founders in the US and Israelis globally.
In Today's Episode on Israeli Resilience We Discuss:
Where are we at today? What is it like on the ground, today?
Have the international community reacted as expected? What more can be done?
What does it mean to be called up for "reserve"?
How are companies dealing with 25% of their teams being called into the armed forces?
Are VCs investing still? Does work carry on?
Whose reactions are exemplary and we should look to follow?
Whose have been woeful and should be called out?
What are the single biggest misconceptions of the situation?
What can people do to help? What can be done?
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