It was a chance encounter at a Masa event in Manhattan that led Naftali Shavelson, then a recent university graduate, to his current role at Israel’s consulate in New York. Since then, Naftali has served as writer, media advisor and communications strategist for Israel’s diplomatic corps in New York, now under Consul General Ofir Akunis. His work has appeared in major global media outlets, lending a much-needed pro-Israel voice to contemporary political discourse. And he considers his and his team’s efforts more meaningful than ever in the wake of October 7th.
MEET NAFTALI:
Tell us about Your Work:
I studied media and communications in college, but like many people, graduated without really knowing what I wanted to do. What I did know was that I was looking for something not only interesting and exciting, but meaningful – a tall order.
It was at a Masa event that I met Israel’s spokesperson in New York, which set this position in motion. We exchanged contact info, and, fast-forward a few months, I began as Director of Print and Online Media at the Consulate General of Israel in New York.
For the past 2.5 years, I’ve been media advisor, speechwriter and ghostwriter for Israel’s diplomatic presence in New York. I’ve had the privilege of writing addresses, op-eds and public statements for a host of Israeli diplomatic, political and cultural figures.
Especially since October 7th, when my team’s work went into overdrive, I’ve been especially aware of the urgency and impact of our efforts. If we don’t write a piece or arrange an interview, no one else is going to do it for us, and the media landscape will simply omit a vital Israeli perspective. It’s that responsibility that keeps us going. The job can be extremely demanding, but I – and all of us – know that it has never been more important.
What is your proudest achievement?
There are a bunch of op-eds I’ve ghostwritten for Israeli officials that have appeared in the highest level of American media outlets. I’m especially proud of those pieces, which I believe introduced new viewpoints to potentially millions of readers, giving them an empathy for Israel’s struggles they may never have had before.
How would you describe the impact of your Masa program on your life and professional path?
Pivotal. Not only did a Masa event in New York directly lead to my job at the consulate, but it was my time at Yeshivat Eretz HaTzvi that cemented my love for Israel in the first place. Until those gap years, I had never even been in Israel. Yeshiva made it real for me – a country of ancient history, religious magnitude and incredible vibrance.
Who is your role model?
Abba Eban and Yehuda Avner – two Israeli diplomats who used their skills and their voices to help the world better understand the State of Israel.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I’d like to think I’ll be playing an active role in contributing to the Jewish state, shaping the Jewish future, and telling Israel’s story on the world stage.
What is your advice for young Jews around the world who want to make a difference?
One of the best tools in our national toolbox is Jewish pride. Use it. Speak up – for Jewish people and the Jewish state – online, on campus and everywhere else.