Grew up in Colorado. After her program, Margot returned to the United States for a short time but quickly returned to Israel, and started a career in the tech industry that lasted 10 years. However, with time Margot began posting and sharing her life as a new Olah in Tel Aviv and quickly became a well-known online personality, especially in Israel, thanks to the “Tomer” persona she created to characterize the Israeli man from the perspective of an American woman. This caught a lot of attention online and brought her many followers. In 2021, during Operation Guardian of the Walls, Margot felt compelled to speak out and explain to the world what was really happening. Since the current war began, my efforts have intensified. She shares and publish content about Israel globally and has gained significant recognition in Israel and abroad for her activities.
Margot has positioned herself as the Aliyah Big Sister to new Olim, offering straightforward advice to those who need help adjusting to life in Israel.
MEET MARGOT:
Tell us about Your Work:
I’m Margot, also known as “@MargotExplainsItAll” and the “Aliyah Big Sister,” creating authentic, humorous, and insightful content about life and dating in Tel Aviv. I coined the popular term “Tomer” and have built a trusted platform where my audience learns, laughs, and connects over shared experiences of Jewish culture and Israeli life. After being dangerously targeted by anti-Israel online trolls, I turned a scary and ugly experience into an opportunity to create Chaim Sheli (“My Life”in Hebrew), a membership community offering exclusive videos, guides, and weekly newsletters in a safe, troll-free space to empower and inspire those navigating life in Israel.
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievements include launching my membership community, Chaim Sheli, which transformed a challenging experience into a safe, empowering space for my audience. I’m also incredibly proud of having my video about antisemitism featured on Dr. Phil and being highlighted in a Kan 11 segment last summer, which explored the impact of the term “Tomer” that I coined, as well as my content and observations about dating in Tel Aviv.
How would you describe the impact of your Masa program on your life and professional path?
My Masa program provided me with the professional and personal experiences that laid the groundwork for my 10-year career in tech. It gave me the tools, connections, and confidence to build a successful career while also establishing a solid foundation for my future life in Israel.
Who is your role model?
Two words: Taylor Swift
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself having made a significant impact in the Jewish and Israeli world, successfully building a prosperous content creation career in Israel, and overcoming the many challenges that come with this path.
What is your advice for young Jews around the world who want to make a difference?
My advice is to never make yourself small—embrace who you are fully. One day, you’ll realize that what you perceive as weaknesses are actually your greatest strengths. Never dull your shine, and remember, those who hate you are often just confused admirers.