Reflecting on a Year of Professional Growth in Israel

As the Jewish New Year approaches, our office is alive with celebration with festive foods, apples dripping with honey, and an abundance of wine and beer. For me, celebrating Rosh Hashanah at work is an uncharted experience. I remember times when the mere pronunciation of “Rosh Hashanah” was a challenge for my coworkers, let alone understanding its significance or why it warranted a day off. The apples and honey are emblems of hope for a sweet new year, mirroring my own aspirations for growth and new beginnings in this old-new land. The holiday is steeped in symbolism with themes of renewal and introspection. In this spirit, I will reflect on my journey since relocating to Israel over a year ago. 

The communal spirit permeates all facets of Israeli life. Festivals and holidays transform streets into hubs of joy. It’s not unusual to find yourself welcomed into a stranger’s home for a holiday dinner or swept up in a spontaneous street dance. This open-heartedness, initially bewildering, has grown to be a cherished part of my life in Israel, offering a profound sense of belonging and community that eluded me in my previous life abroad.

I find myself increasingly intertwined with the rhythms of Israeli life. This integration extends beyond savoring the festive foods or grasping the holiday prayers. It’s about embracing the Israeli ethos of resilience and renewal—qualities mirrored not only in the holiday itself but also in everyday interactions and the indomitable spirit of the people of Israel.

From Stranger to Startupper

When I arrived, I was a stranger with no contacts, completely new to Israel. Yet, within a year, I’ve become a co-founder of a major VC-backed startup, alongside three Israelis. This journey unfolded even amidst existential war and rocket attacks—a testament to the dynamic Israeli spirit. 

This swift transformation can largely be attributed to Israel’s unique networking culture. In the “startup nation,” introductions are often just a quick phone call away, and people are remarkably open to making connections. At tech meetups and Shabbat dinners, casual conversations quickly turn collaborative, offering myriad opportunities for even the newest immigrants to weave themselves into the professional fabric. Israelis’ readiness to support each other, particularly in business, is striking, underpinned by a shared understanding that today’s assistance could lead to mutual benefits tomorrow.

The influence of Israel’s educational system and mandatory military service in fostering a culture of innovation and direct communication is profound. Many of my Israeli colleagues bring invaluable skills from their military service—leadership, problem-solving, and the ability to thrive under pressure. These skills complement an education system with a strong emphasis on science and technology, creating a workforce that is technically adept and proficient in navigating the complexities of a startup environment. This unique combination enables startups here to thrive amid challenges that might stifle innovation elsewhere. Hierarchies are flat, and everyone, from intern to CEO, is approachable, fostering a free flow of ideas and swift decision-making. This environment has pushed me to become more assertive and innovative—traits highly valued in the Israeli business culture.

The Israeli Way: Open Doors and Open Minds

Contrast this with my experiences in the USA, where my emails often went unanswered despite numerous attempts at outreach, even with people I have known for a long time. In Israel, I’ve found that people, including busy CEOs, are incredibly approachable. They respond to emails, engage in meaningful dialogue, and are often willing to meet face-to-face over coffee. This accessibility pervades professional and personal interactions alike, reflecting a cultural hallmark of directness and openness that not only facilitates business but fosters genuine relationships.

In Israel, networking doesn’t require formal appointments or stiff business lunches; it might happen during a casual game of beach ping pong or at a local café. This informality, initially disconcerting to newcomers, is actually a key component of business dynamics here. It creates a more relaxed atmosphere that encourages open communication and the free exchange of ideas, without the constraints of excessive formalities.

The collaborative spirit is also evident in the startup ecosystem, where events like hackathons and meetups are common and well-attended. The collective understanding that everyone benefits from shared success fosters a culture of innovation where ideas are openly exchanged, leading to rapid advancements and collective growth.

Moreover, the principles of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and gemilut chasadim (acts of kindness), deeply ingrained in Jewish culture, reinforce this openness. These values extend beyond personal interactions into the business realm, where companies often engage in community service or social entrepreneurship. This blurring of personal values and professional objectives helps cultivate businesses that are not only successful but also socially responsible and deeply connected to their communities.

Finally, the readiness to engage and assist reflects the security needs that have shaped Israeli society. The constant need for vigilance and mutual support in times of crisis has cultivated a mindset where collaboration and rapid response are second nature. This readiness transcends into the business environment, where adaptability and quick thinking are essential for success. Israelis are trained to think on their feet, whether facing a security alert or a business crisis, making them excellent problem solvers and resilient business partners. This unique blend of cultural traits enhances business interactions and also enriches the social fabric of the nation, making Israel a uniquely vibrant place to live and work.

Conversations that Matter

In Israel, profound discussions are not reserved for the elite or intellectuals. I’ve engaged in deep philosophical debates about technology and cosmology with taxi drivers and had insightful exchanges on artificial intelligence with a local car rental broker. The willingness to discuss complex ideas across different social strata, without judgment, is a hallmark of Israeli culture. This intellectual openness is a testament to a society that values education and diverse perspectives, where every conversation has the potential to be enlightening.

This cultural characteristic stems, in part, from educational priorities that emphasize fostering creative thinking and debate from a young age. Israelis are encouraged to question and debate various topics in a manner that is respectful yet forthright. This educational approach cultivates a population comfortable with exchange and disagreement, essential qualities in a vibrant democracy. Consequently, it’s not unusual to find yourself in a spirited discussion about global politics or futurism at a casual dinner or even in a more unexpected setting like a public bus.

In Jerusalem, atop a city roof, I once lost hours to a conversation with a drifter. This man, without a permanent address, carries his home globally on his back. Elsewhere, he might be ignored, or worse, shunned. But in Israel, every soul is a universe, each voice a treasure trove of wisdom.

Moreover, the historical context of Israel, shaped by waves of aliyah (Jewish immigration), has created a melting pot of ideas and philosophies. Each wave brought with it different cultural norms and knowledge, which have been integrated into the broader Israeli psyche. This diversity is celebrated and leveraged into everyday discussions that enrich everyone involved. In this way, a simple chat over coffee can turn into an impromptu masterclass on world history or quantum physics, reflecting the rich tapestry of backgrounds that make up Israeli society.

Finally, the role of cafes and public spaces as communal hubs further facilitates these meaningful conversations. In cities like Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, cafes are vibrant arenas of exchange where people of all ages and backgrounds meet to discuss, argue, and share controversial ideas. The layout of these spaces often encourages interaction between tables, making it easy for a quick question to a neighbor to evolve into a deep discussion involving several participants. 

Through these dialogues, I’ve gained not only knowledge but also a deeper understanding of the Israeli mind and heart. Each conversation has been a building block in my integration into Israeli society, illustrating how dialogue can bridge gaps and build understanding in ways that formal interactions often cannot.

A Nation of Warrior-Poets

The patriotism here is palpable. Israelis are ready to defend their country at a moment’s notice. This was vividly illustrated on October 7, when people of all walks of life donned their army uniforms and volunteered for duty, no questions asked. Witnessing this commitment firsthand has not only deepened my appreciation for this country but has also solidified my desire to build a future and raise my children here. The blend of resilience and duty combined with poetic expression, often in the form of music, art, science or literature, highlights a unique aspect of Israeli culture where the warrior and the poet coexist.

This synthesis of the martial and the artistic is deeply rooted in Israeli history and Jewish tradition. The historical narrative of Israel, full of battles for survival, has fostered a culture where military service is seen as an obligation of the people. It’s easy to find soldiers who are musicians, scientists, writers, or artists, embodying the spirit of the ‘warrior-poet.’ These individuals bring a sensitivity and creativity to their roles in the defense forces, often using their artistic talents to convey their experiences and emotions. This cultural duality enhances both the individual and collective resilience, offering a means to cope with the harsh realities of conflict through creative expression.

The importance of remembrance and storytelling in Israeli culture further enriches this identity. National holidays such as Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day) and Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) are observed with solemnity and profound respect across the nation. During these times, stories of heroism, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit are shared in schools, homes, and public gatherings. These narratives are not just recounted; they are felt and lived, often accompanied by songs with deep emotional and cultural significance. This practice of storytelling honors those who have sacrificed and also reinforces the values of bravery and creativity among the younger generations.

Through living in Israel and witnessing the seamless integration of these dual aspects of Israeli identity, I have come to appreciate the profound balance this culture maintains. It is a balance that does not diminish the importance of defense nor does it overlook the power of intellectual expression. Instead, it celebrates and cultivates both, ensuring that the spirit of the nation remains both strong and smart.

Looking Forward

As I celebrate this New Year in Israel, surrounded by new friends and colleagues, I am grateful for the opportunities and the unexpected lessons of the past year. Israel has not just been a place of refuge or a new home; it has been a crucible for growth, learning, and connection—a true testament to the resilience and warmth of its people. The celebrations, rich with cultural heritage and communal joy, have not only marked the passage of time but also the deepening of bonds that now tie me to this land and its history.

In this upcoming year, I look forward to continuing my journey in Israel, embracing its challenges and rewards. Each holiday and every communal event deepen my understanding and appreciation of this complex, vibrant society. I plan to explore more of the country, from its ancient streets in Jerusalem to its bustling tech hubs in Tel Aviv, each place a new chapter of my ongoing Israeli story. As I weave my personal ambitions with the threads of this nation’s dynamic culture, I am eager to see how my own story will unfold in this land that continually teaches resilience, innovation, and the importance of community.