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Leadership
Meet the team behind YOUR growth
We are proud of and grateful to the immensely experienced, diverse and dedicated
team leading VIP's efforts to tackle global hunger with Israeli expertise.
MANAGEMENT
LEADERSHIP
Danielle Abraham
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Danielle has spent her career in Israel dedicated to connecting Israeli expertise to needs in developing countries. At present she is the Executive Director of Volcani International Partnerships, an NGO dedicated to promoting Israeli agricultural innovation and expertise for the benefit of Israel and the world. Prior to this position, Danielle was the Co-Chair of the annual ID2 Conference and co-founder of Impact Investing Israel, working to develop the impact investment sector in Israel. Danielle started her career in Israel as a senior policy advisor in MASHAV, Israel’s agency for International Development Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In this role she represented Israel, as a guest speaker, at the UN, OECD and German Development Bank. Danielle made Aliyah from London, where she worked for the Strategy and International Directorate of the UK Home Office. Danielle holds a B.A. and an M.A. from the University of Oxford and lives in Tel Aviv with her husband and son.
Danielle has spent her career in Israel dedicated to connecting Israeli expertise to needs in developing countries. At present she is the Executive Director of Volcani International Partnerships, an NGO dedicated to promoting Israeli agricultural innovation and expertise for the benefit of Israel and the world. Prior to this position, Danielle was the Co-Chair of the annual ID2 Conference and co-founder of Impact Investing Israel, working to develop the impact investment sector in Israel. Danielle started her career in Israel as a senior policy advisor in MASHAV, Israel’s agency for International Development Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In this role she represented Israel, as a guest speaker, at the UN, OECD and German Development Bank. Danielle made Aliyah from London, where she worked for the Strategy and International Directorate of the UK Home Office. Danielle holds a B.A. and an M.A. from the University of Oxford and lives in Tel Aviv with her husband and son.
David Chapot
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
David’s life was changed by the book Man’s Search for Meaning which pushed him to pursue a career dedicated to tackling key challenges close to his heart. David has worked with Volcani International Partnerships (VIP) since September 2020, first as Director of Programs and more recently as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to this, David worked in counter-terrorism for over five years: culminating in leading a local government counter-radicalisation team in the United Kingdom. In his last appraisal in this role he was described as a ‘national asset’. Elected by his peers as the Chair of the London Prevent Network, he also held pan-London responsibilities (including with regards to community tension monitoring in the wake of terrorist attacks). An accomplished speaker, David has lectured in post-graduate courses, presented original peer-reviewed research at academic conferences, been interviewed on BBC News and BBC Radio London, and briefed government Ministers. David is a graduate of the University of Manchester, King's College London and the World Class Manager program. He lives in London with his wife and son. He is fluent in French and English.
David’s life was changed by the book Man’s Search for Meaning which pushed him to pursue a career dedicated to tackling key challenges close to his heart. David has worked with Volcani International Partnerships (VIP) since September 2020, first as Director of Programs and more recently as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to this, David worked in counter-terrorism for over five years: culminating in leading a local government counter-radicalisation team in the United Kingdom. In his last appraisal in this role he was described as a ‘national asset’. Elected by his peers as the Chair of the London Prevent Network, he also held pan-London responsibilities (including with regards to community tension monitoring in the wake of terrorist attacks). An accomplished speaker, David has lectured in post-graduate courses, presented original peer-reviewed research at academic conferences, been interviewed on BBC News and BBC Radio London, and briefed government Ministers. David is a graduate of the University of Manchester, King's College London and the World Class Manager program. He lives in London with his wife and son. He is fluent in French and English.
Prof. Itamar Glazer
HEAD OF RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Over the course of his career, Prof. Glazer has served as the Volcani Institute’s Director of R&D, Head of the Plant Sciences Institute and Director of the Technology Transfer Unit. Prof. Glazer is also an affiliated Professor at the Hebrew University in the Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. Prof. Glazer is renowned in the field of biological pest control where he developed new microbial control agents. He holds four patents, has published over 200 peer reviewed articles and has edited two books. Prof. Glazer holds a PhD in Agriculture from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Over the course of his career, Prof. Glazer has served as the Volcani Institute’s Director of R&D, Head of the Plant Sciences Institute and Director of the Technology Transfer Unit. Prof. Glazer is also an affiliated Professor at the Hebrew University in the Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. Prof. Glazer is renowned in the field of biological pest control where he developed new microbial control agents. He holds four patents, has published over 200 peer reviewed articles and has edited two books. Prof. Glazer holds a PhD in Agriculture from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Dr. Shmuel Gross
HEAD OF AGRONOMY AND EXTENSION
In recent years, Dr. Gross served in multiple executive roles at the extension & administration department, including deputy director of the extension service department with more than 150 employees, and acting director of the extension service. These roles included close connections with all the agricultural interfaces in Israel including research institutes, universities, commercial companies, and local R&D facilities.
In recent years, Dr. Gross served in multiple executive roles at the extension & administration department, including deputy director of the extension service department with more than 150 employees, and acting director of the extension service. These roles included close connections with all the agricultural interfaces in Israel including research institutes, universities, commercial companies, and local R&D facilities.
US Board of Directors
U.S. BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Volcani International Partnerships – US, Inc. is an independent Delaware nonprofit organization, which shares a similar mission and similar values with the Israeli organization Volcani International Partnerships.
Adam Lurie
CHAIRMAN
Head of Linklaters' Dispute Resolution Practice in the United States and the Americas, and Linklaters’ Washington D.C. office, Adam is recognized internationally as among the best lawyers in his field. He is lead counsel for multinational companies, financial institutions, foreign governments and leaders, and is also active in the realm of non-profit organizations.
Head of Linklaters' Dispute Resolution Practice in the United States and the Americas, and Linklaters’ Washington D.C. office, Adam is recognized internationally as among the best lawyers in his field. He is lead counsel for multinational companies, financial institutions, foreign governments and leaders, and is also active in the realm of non-profit organizations.
Malcolm Hoenlein
BOARD MEMBER
Malcolm Hoenlein is the Vice Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, the coordinating body for 53 national Jewish organizations. He received his B.A. from Temple University and completed his doctoral course work at the University of Pennsylvania where he taught International Relations and was a Middle East specialist at the Foreign Policy Research Institute. He was the Founding Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater New York and of the Greater New York Conference on Soviet Jewry. Mr. Hoenlein appears regularly in the media, including three weekly nationally syndicated radio broadcasts, and has lectured and met leading officials throughout the world. A recipient of many awards, including the Guardian of Jerusalem, the highest recognition of the capital city, the Guardian of Zion award, the Defender of Israel award, four Honorary Doctorates, and two honorary Fellowships, he is associated with and serves on the boards of many communal, educational and civic organizations. He is on the board of the Council for Secure America, the Secure Community Network, and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
Malcolm Hoenlein is the Vice Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, the coordinating body for 53 national Jewish organizations. He received his B.A. from Temple University and completed his doctoral course work at the University of Pennsylvania where he taught International Relations and was a Middle East specialist at the Foreign Policy Research Institute. He was the Founding Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater New York and of the Greater New York Conference on Soviet Jewry. Mr. Hoenlein appears regularly in the media, including three weekly nationally syndicated radio broadcasts, and has lectured and met leading officials throughout the world. A recipient of many awards, including the Guardian of Jerusalem, the highest recognition of the capital city, the Guardian of Zion award, the Defender of Israel award, four Honorary Doctorates, and two honorary Fellowships, he is associated with and serves on the boards of many communal, educational and civic organizations. He is on the board of the Council for Secure America, the Secure Community Network, and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
Sandra Hoffen
BOARD MEMBER
Sandra is a former Partner at First New York, Managing Director at Deltec Asset Management, and Principle at American Industrial Partners. She is a trustee of the Riverdale Country School, an Emeritus Member of Columbia's Board of Visitors, former trustee of the Hirshorn Museum and Sculpture Gardens, and is on the Chairman's Council at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Sandra is a former Partner at First New York, Managing Director at Deltec Asset Management, and Principle at American Industrial Partners. She is a trustee of the Riverdale Country School, an Emeritus Member of Columbia's Board of Visitors, former trustee of the Hirshorn Museum and Sculpture Gardens, and is on the Chairman's Council at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Lord Stuart Polak
BOARD MEMBER
Appointed in 2015 as Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for political service, Lord Polak previously served as the Education Director of Board of Deputies of British Jews (1984 1989), and as the Director of the Conservative Friends of Israel. Today he remains its honorary president, and serves as chairman of TWC Associates and as a senior consultant to Marsh & McLennan.
Lord Stuart Polak was born and educated in Liverpool, England. He served as the Education Director of Board of Deputies of British Jews from 1984 1989. Lord Polak became the Director of the Conservative Friends of Israel in 1989, where he served for twenty-six years. Since stepping down in August 2015, he serves as its honorary president. He also serves as chairman of TWC Associates and as a senior consultant to Marsh & McLennan. Lord Polak was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for political service in the 2015 New Year Honours. He was created a life peer taking the title Lord Polak of Hertsmere in the County of Hertfordshire on October 2nd 2015.
Appointed in 2015 as Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for political service, Lord Polak previously served as the Education Director of Board of Deputies of British Jews (1984 1989), and as the Director of the Conservative Friends of Israel. Today he remains its honorary president, and serves as chairman of TWC Associates and as a senior consultant to Marsh & McLennan.
Lord Stuart Polak was born and educated in Liverpool, England. He served as the Education Director of Board of Deputies of British Jews from 1984 1989. Lord Polak became the Director of the Conservative Friends of Israel in 1989, where he served for twenty-six years. Since stepping down in August 2015, he serves as its honorary president. He also serves as chairman of TWC Associates and as a senior consultant to Marsh & McLennan. Lord Polak was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for political service in the 2015 New Year Honours. He was created a life peer taking the title Lord Polak of Hertsmere in the County of Hertfordshire on October 2nd 2015.
Israel Board of Directors
ISRAEL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Volcani international Partnerships is a registered non-profit in Israel. VIP's board comprises renowned Israeli leaders ffrom the fields of agriculture, international develop
Prof. Uri Mingelgrin
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Prof. Uri Mingelgrin is the Chairman of the Board of Volcani International Partnerships. He is also active as an emeritus scientist at the Volcani Center, Institute of Soils, Water and Environmental Sciences. In this capacity, he has chaired and is a member of a number of important committees that deal with environmental issues. For example, Prof. Mingelgrin chaired the joint government-private sector committee that determined the methodology, later adopted by the Israeli government, for formulating environmental laws and regulations. Since 2007 Prof. Mingelgrin has also served as an environmental consultant, specializing in environmental issues, in particular as related to soil and water pollution and remediation. Between 1994 and 1999 he served as the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Environment and for over two years (2005-2007) as the Director of Scientific Affairs of the Volcani Center. Prior to this position, Prof. Uri Mingelgrin served as a researcher in the Institute of Soils, water and environmental sciences of the Volcani Center.
Prof. Uri Mingelgrin is the Chairman of the Board of Volcani International Partnerships. He is also active as an emeritus scientist at the Volcani Center, Institute of Soils, Water and Environmental Sciences. In this capacity, he has chaired and is a member of a number of important committees that deal with environmental issues. For example, Prof. Mingelgrin chaired the joint government-private sector committee that determined the methodology, later adopted by the Israeli government, for formulating environmental laws and regulations. Since 2007 Prof. Mingelgrin has also served as an environmental consultant, specializing in environmental issues, in particular as related to soil and water pollution and remediation. Between 1994 and 1999 he served as the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Environment and for over two years (2005-2007) as the Director of Scientific Affairs of the Volcani Center. Prior to this position, Prof. Uri Mingelgrin served as a researcher in the Institute of Soils, water and environmental sciences of the Volcani Center.
Daniel Ben Yehuda
BOARD MEMBER
Daniel Ben Yehuda is a business development expert, with an emphasis on renewable energy and Fintech sectors. Passionate about catalyzing innovations and scaling impact businesses to solve global challenges. He currently leads a venture builder which invests and helps grow new companies in the Fintech space (www.om2.com). He sits on the board and supports business development activities in various OM2 portfolio companies (CreditPlace, Straterix...). Previously, Daniel spent 3 years as Director of Business Development at Lumos, providing access to affordable solar power to off-grid homes and business . Prior to that served as deputy Director of the Pears Global Innovation program at Tel Aviv University and co-founder of of the IsraelDev Network, and the DevTechHub wich all focused on policy and community building activities aimed to catalize technology solutions that answer needs of developing countries. Beyond these, Daniel also co-chaired the ID2 connection point, established an Israel Africa business forum event series and provides ongoing support to several Israeli non-profits and social ventures. Daniel holds an M.A. in environmental studies with a focus on eco-innovation and technology transfer to developing countries. His Master's thesis compared the business models used by Israeli drip irrigation companies in their Indian market activities.
Daniel Ben Yehuda is a business development expert, with an emphasis on renewable energy and Fintech sectors. Passionate about catalyzing innovations and scaling impact businesses to solve global challenges. He currently leads a venture builder which invests and helps grow new companies in the Fintech space (www.om2.com). He sits on the board and supports business development activities in various OM2 portfolio companies (CreditPlace, Straterix...). Previously, Daniel spent 3 years as Director of Business Development at Lumos, providing access to affordable solar power to off-grid homes and business . Prior to that served as deputy Director of the Pears Global Innovation program at Tel Aviv University and co-founder of of the IsraelDev Network, and the DevTechHub wich all focused on policy and community building activities aimed to catalize technology solutions that answer needs of developing countries. Beyond these, Daniel also co-chaired the ID2 connection point, established an Israel Africa business forum event series and provides ongoing support to several Israeli non-profits and social ventures. Daniel holds an M.A. in environmental studies with a focus on eco-innovation and technology transfer to developing countries. His Master's thesis compared the business models used by Israeli drip irrigation companies in their Indian market activities.
Avinoam Brog
BOARD MEMBER
Avinoam Brog is Chairman of “Ipsos Israel” Board, formerly known as Market Watch Ltd. A clinical psychologist by profession, Mr Brog is one of the most respected market analysts and political advisors in Israel. Mr. Brog has served as a researcher and advisor for his brother, former Prime Minister Mr. Ehud Barak during his election campaigns. He has also worked as an advisor and researcher to numerous political parties and local government candidates over the years. Mr. Brog is well known in Israel, his firm has done research for the leading companies in Israel and globally. He is well connected in both the Israeli business and political communities. Mr. Brog is an advisor to many leading Israeli firms and sits on numerous boards. For example, he is on the board of Volcani International Partnerships and is the founder and chairman of the board of ‘Brainster’ an artificial intelligence, cloud based neuromarketing start up. Mr. Brog speaks English, Hebrew and Spanish fluently and has spent several years abroad as an emissary of the State of Israel.
Avinoam Brog is Chairman of “Ipsos Israel” Board, formerly known as Market Watch Ltd. A clinical psychologist by profession, Mr Brog is one of the most respected market analysts and political advisors in Israel. Mr. Brog has served as a researcher and advisor for his brother, former Prime Minister Mr. Ehud Barak during his election campaigns. He has also worked as an advisor and researcher to numerous political parties and local government candidates over the years. Mr. Brog is well known in Israel, his firm has done research for the leading companies in Israel and globally. He is well connected in both the Israeli business and political communities. Mr. Brog is an advisor to many leading Israeli firms and sits on numerous boards. For example, he is on the board of Volcani International Partnerships and is the founder and chairman of the board of ‘Brainster’ an artificial intelligence, cloud based neuromarketing start up. Mr. Brog speaks English, Hebrew and Spanish fluently and has spent several years abroad as an emissary of the State of Israel.
Joanne Moore
BOARD MEMBER
Joanne Moore is an international development assistance professional with more than 25 years of project management and business development experience in Africa, Asia, and Haiti. Joanne provides consulting service to USAID's implementing partners through her company, JoMoConsult LLC. She has also partnered with Duke University’s Dr. Bob Malkin to form Pratt Pouch Consulting and promote and expand the use of the Pratt Pouch to increase access to life-saving antiretroviral medications for the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT). Previously, Joanne served as the Senior Vice President of the Africa and Haiti Region at Chemonics International, Inc., piloted a social franchise for PMTCT in Uganda for Population Services International, and focused on guinea worm eradication as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Benin. Joanne serves on the boards of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC/The Joint), Yahel Service Learning Program, and the American Associates of Ben Gurion University. Joanne earned a B.A. in African and Afro-American Studies and the Political Economy of Developing Countries from Brandeis University and a M.Sc. in Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Joanne Moore is an international development assistance professional with more than 25 years of project management and business development experience in Africa, Asia, and Haiti. Joanne provides consulting service to USAID's implementing partners through her company, JoMoConsult LLC. She has also partnered with Duke University’s Dr. Bob Malkin to form Pratt Pouch Consulting and promote and expand the use of the Pratt Pouch to increase access to life-saving antiretroviral medications for the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT). Previously, Joanne served as the Senior Vice President of the Africa and Haiti Region at Chemonics International, Inc., piloted a social franchise for PMTCT in Uganda for Population Services International, and focused on guinea worm eradication as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Benin. Joanne serves on the boards of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC/The Joint), Yahel Service Learning Program, and the American Associates of Ben Gurion University. Joanne earned a B.A. in African and Afro-American Studies and the Political Economy of Developing Countries from Brandeis University and a M.Sc. in Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Prof. Dov Prusky
BOARD MEMBER
Prof. Dov Prusky is a member of the Board of Volcani International Partnerships. He is active as an emeritus scientist at the Volcani Center’s Institute of Food Science, Department of Postharvest Science, where he serves as a scientific advisor on the subject of Mycotoxin. He also acts as an academic advisor in other Israeli Universities and Colleges, and in academic institutions around the World. Prof. Prusky was the Director of Scientific Affairs of the Volcani Center. Prior to this position, Prof. Prusky was the Head of the Institute of Food Technology and Chairman of the Department of Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce. Prof. Prusky was chosen as "Scientist of the Year '' in 2002 and granted the "Life Achievement" prize in 2012. The International Society of Plant Pathology, elected him as "Honorary Fellow of the ISPP" in recognition of his exemplary service to ISPP. Prof. Prusky is an Invited Professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Faculty of Agriculture.
Prof. Dov Prusky is a member of the Board of Volcani International Partnerships. He is active as an emeritus scientist at the Volcani Center’s Institute of Food Science, Department of Postharvest Science, where he serves as a scientific advisor on the subject of Mycotoxin. He also acts as an academic advisor in other Israeli Universities and Colleges, and in academic institutions around the World. Prof. Prusky was the Director of Scientific Affairs of the Volcani Center. Prior to this position, Prof. Prusky was the Head of the Institute of Food Technology and Chairman of the Department of Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce. Prof. Prusky was chosen as "Scientist of the Year '' in 2002 and granted the "Life Achievement" prize in 2012. The International Society of Plant Pathology, elected him as "Honorary Fellow of the ISPP" in recognition of his exemplary service to ISPP. Prof. Prusky is an Invited Professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Faculty of Agriculture.
Dr. Zohara Yaniv
BOARD MEMBER
Dr. Zohara Yaniv teaches in different academic institutions in Israel, including the Hebrew University Agricultural Sciences Campus in Rehovot, the Bar- Ilan School of Pharmacy, and Tel Hashomer and Asaf Harofeh Hospitals. She was also a visiting scientist at universities around the world, including in the US, France, Austria, and China. She is internationally acclaimed for her research on the use of plants for medicinal purposes. For example, Dr. Yaniv was partner to the discovery of plant based omega 3 oils such as sage oils, which are used as an alternative to fish oils. From 1993 to 2001, Dr. Yaniv served as head of the Unit for International Cooperation at the Volcani center. She led agricultural research cooperations between Israeli scientists and other countries such as Turkey, China, Germany, Italy, Korea and Poland. After retiring in 2002 Dr. Yaniv continued lecturing in universities, and organized national conferences in Medicinal Plants and their use in medicine. She is one of the founders of EILAM, the Israeli Association of Medicinal Plants, and is a very active member of the board.
Dr. Zohara Yaniv teaches in different academic institutions in Israel, including the Hebrew University Agricultural Sciences Campus in Rehovot, the Bar- Ilan School of Pharmacy, and Tel Hashomer and Asaf Harofeh Hospitals. She was also a visiting scientist at universities around the world, including in the US, France, Austria, and China. She is internationally acclaimed for her research on the use of plants for medicinal purposes. For example, Dr. Yaniv was partner to the discovery of plant based omega 3 oils such as sage oils, which are used as an alternative to fish oils. From 1993 to 2001, Dr. Yaniv served as head of the Unit for International Cooperation at the Volcani center. She led agricultural research cooperations between Israeli scientists and other countries such as Turkey, China, Germany, Italy, Korea and Poland. After retiring in 2002 Dr. Yaniv continued lecturing in universities, and organized national conferences in Medicinal Plants and their use in medicine. She is one of the founders of EILAM, the Israeli Association of Medicinal Plants, and is a very active member of the board.
Special Advisors
STRATEGIC ADVISORY BOARD
Dr. Yoram Kapulnik
SPECIAL ADVISOR TO THE BOARD
Prof. Yoram Kapulnik has been the Executive Director of the U.S. Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD) since August 1, 2017. He is the former Director General of the Volcani Center in Israel (2011-2016). Prior to this position, he served as the head of numerous institutes within the Volcani Center. Born and raised in Israel, Prof. Kapulnik received his doctorate in Soil Microbiology from the Hebrew University and as a Fulbright Fellow, completed his post-doctoral work at the University of California, Davis (1984-1986). Prof. Kapulnik worked for more than 25 years as a Professor of plant physiology and biotechnology at the Volcani Center, Israeli Ministry of Agriculture. His early work focused on the study of plant microorganism interactions, mainly in plant roots, and their impact on crop productivity. Later, he concentrated on the identification and utilization of natural products produced by numerous plant species and their health benefits. Prof. Kapulnik holds 16 patents, has trained more than 65 graduate and post-graduate students in his lab and has published more than 170 articles in his field in international scientific journals and edited 3 books. Over the years, Prof. Kapulnik served on numerous national and international research evaluation panels, chaired the board of the Israeli Gene Bank, the natural "food security" commission and the national working group to develop curriculum frameworks for agricultural education in Israel and more. Prof. Kapulnik is serving on the board of directors of Groundwork BioAg Ltd and Volcani International Partnerships. He also represents Israel in numerous international events in Israel and abroad.
Prof. Yoram Kapulnik has been the Executive Director of the U.S. Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD) since August 1, 2017. He is the former Director General of the Volcani Center in Israel (2011-2016). Prior to this position, he served as the head of numerous institutes within the Volcani Center. Born and raised in Israel, Prof. Kapulnik received his doctorate in Soil Microbiology from the Hebrew University and as a Fulbright Fellow, completed his post-doctoral work at the University of California, Davis (1984-1986). Prof. Kapulnik worked for more than 25 years as a Professor of plant physiology and biotechnology at the Volcani Center, Israeli Ministry of Agriculture. His early work focused on the study of plant microorganism interactions, mainly in plant roots, and their impact on crop productivity. Later, he concentrated on the identification and utilization of natural products produced by numerous plant species and their health benefits. Prof. Kapulnik holds 16 patents, has trained more than 65 graduate and post-graduate students in his lab and has published more than 170 articles in his field in international scientific journals and edited 3 books. Over the years, Prof. Kapulnik served on numerous national and international research evaluation panels, chaired the board of the Israeli Gene Bank, the natural "food security" commission and the national working group to develop curriculum frameworks for agricultural education in Israel and more. Prof. Kapulnik is serving on the board of directors of Groundwork BioAg Ltd and Volcani International Partnerships. He also represents Israel in numerous international events in Israel and abroad.
Dr. Shaul Manor
SPECIAL ADVISOR TO THE BOARD
Dr. Shaul Manor has a Ph.D. in Agronomy from Colorado State University. His particular fields of expertise include irrigation management, agricultural extension and training, monitoring and evaluation of irrigation-related research and development programs; review of findings from research and development programs and evaluation of their practicality and potential impact in similar environments elsewhere; development of appropriate ways to promote the dissemination and implementation of research findings; and direction and production of video programs for irrigation extension and training. Dr. Manor has vast field experience, accumulated in Brazil, Peru, Barbados, Jamaica, Cape Verde, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Albania Italy, Poland, Rumania, Turkey, Iran, Jordan, Cyprus and Israel. In his capacity as a Senior Consultant to the Peres Center for Peace, he has led a distance learning program on water and irrigation, within the framework of the regional "Culture of Water" project.
Dr. Shaul Manor has a Ph.D. in Agronomy from Colorado State University. His particular fields of expertise include irrigation management, agricultural extension and training, monitoring and evaluation of irrigation-related research and development programs; review of findings from research and development programs and evaluation of their practicality and potential impact in similar environments elsewhere; development of appropriate ways to promote the dissemination and implementation of research findings; and direction and production of video programs for irrigation extension and training. Dr. Manor has vast field experience, accumulated in Brazil, Peru, Barbados, Jamaica, Cape Verde, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Albania Italy, Poland, Rumania, Turkey, Iran, Jordan, Cyprus and Israel. In his capacity as a Senior Consultant to the Peres Center for Peace, he has led a distance learning program on water and irrigation, within the framework of the regional "Culture of Water" project.
Dr. Thomas Zvi Ron
SPECIAL ADVISOR TO THE BOARD
Dr. Thomas Zvi Ron is a Cum Laude graduate of the Faculty of Agriculture of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, with a specialization in Agricultural Economics and Farm Management. He worked at Wharton Econometrics of the University of Pennsylvania, and after returning to Israel became a staff member of Tahal Consulting Engineers Group. With extensive international experience, he has a record of more than 30 years of consultancy in the areas of agricultural development and water resource management. He was engaged in planning, managing and executing numerous multidisciplinary projects in about 40 countries in Africa, Latin America, Asia and Europe. He is currently engaged as a private international consultant, focused on integrated infrastructure development and is a special advisor to Volcani International Partnerships, and has worked with the team to build up and lead some of the private advisory work.
Dr. Thomas Zvi Ron is a Cum Laude graduate of the Faculty of Agriculture of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, with a specialization in Agricultural Economics and Farm Management. He worked at Wharton Econometrics of the University of Pennsylvania, and after returning to Israel became a staff member of Tahal Consulting Engineers Group. With extensive international experience, he has a record of more than 30 years of consultancy in the areas of agricultural development and water resource management. He was engaged in planning, managing and executing numerous multidisciplinary projects in about 40 countries in Africa, Latin America, Asia and Europe. He is currently engaged as a private international consultant, focused on integrated infrastructure development and is a special advisor to Volcani International Partnerships, and has worked with the team to build up and lead some of the private advisory work.
Prof. Ada Rafaeli
SPECIAL ADVISOR TO THE BOARD
Professor (Emeritus) Ada Rafaeli graduated from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver - British Columbia, Canada in 1975 and completed her doctoral thesis in Insect Physiology at the University of London, Imperial College - London, England in 1978. The ultimate goal of Professor Rafaeli's research is to discover new substances for the control of pest populations without using toxic chemicals. She believes that through a thorough understanding of the endogenous regulatory mechanisms of key processes, which are crucial for the pest survival capabilities (reproductive behavior), we will be able to design products which will disrupt these mechanisms.
Professor (Emeritus) Ada Rafaeli graduated from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver - British Columbia, Canada in 1975 and completed her doctoral thesis in Insect Physiology at the University of London, Imperial College - London, England in 1978. The ultimate goal of Professor Rafaeli's research is to discover new substances for the control of pest populations without using toxic chemicals. She believes that through a thorough understanding of the endogenous regulatory mechanisms of key processes, which are crucial for the pest survival capabilities (reproductive behavior), we will be able to design products which will disrupt these mechanisms.
Dr. Edo Chalutz
SPECIAL ADVISOR TO THE BOARD
Dr. Chalutz earned his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology at the University of California Davis in 1968. Following a postdoctoral year at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, he joined the Volcani Agriculture Institute as a research scientist at the Department of Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce. He served as head of the Department from 1978 to 1983, and went on to being the Head of the Institute for Technology and Storage of Agricultural Products, as well as the Scientific and Academic Director of Volcani. During his time in Volcani, he spent three Sabbatical years (1976, 1982 and 1989) at universities in the USA. His main scientific research centered on the biological control of postharvest diseases, and the induction of resistance to postharvest diseases of fresh fruits and vegetables. Dr. Chalutz has published more than 80 scientific publications. In 1997, he left Volcani to become the Executive Director of BARD – the US-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund, were he served for 20 years until his retirement in 2017. Dr. Chalutz focused BARD funded research on relevant agricultural issues to both countries, fostered professionalism, transparency and integrity of the BARD evaluation process, enhanced synergistic collaboration between US and Israeli investigators, opened new funding avenues for joint research and provided prompt and quality service to the scientific community.
Dr. Chalutz earned his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology at the University of California Davis in 1968. Following a postdoctoral year at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, he joined the Volcani Agriculture Institute as a research scientist at the Department of Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce. He served as head of the Department from 1978 to 1983, and went on to being the Head of the Institute for Technology and Storage of Agricultural Products, as well as the Scientific and Academic Director of Volcani. During his time in Volcani, he spent three Sabbatical years (1976, 1982 and 1989) at universities in the USA. His main scientific research centered on the biological control of postharvest diseases, and the induction of resistance to postharvest diseases of fresh fruits and vegetables. Dr. Chalutz has published more than 80 scientific publications. In 1997, he left Volcani to become the Executive Director of BARD – the US-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund, were he served for 20 years until his retirement in 2017. Dr. Chalutz focused BARD funded research on relevant agricultural issues to both countries, fostered professionalism, transparency and integrity of the BARD evaluation process, enhanced synergistic collaboration between US and Israeli investigators, opened new funding avenues for joint research and provided prompt and quality service to the scientific community.
Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy
SPECIAL ADVISOR TO THE BOARD
Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy is president of Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities in Redmond, WA. He served for six years as President Barack Obama’s appointee as the Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture in Washington, DC. Previously, Dr. Ramaswamy served as Dean of Oregon State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences, Director of Purdue’s Agricultural Research Programs, University Distinguished Professor and Head of the Entomology Department at Kansas State University, and Professor of Entomology at Mississippi State University. He has published over 150 journal articles, book chapters, and a book, and has a patent. Dr. Ramaswamy is the recipient of several awards and honors, including Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Fellow of the Entomological Society of America, Food Systems Leadership Award for Extraordinary Impacts on Food Systems, the Ellen Swallow Richards Public Service Award for Visionary Leadership and Exceptional Contributions to Advance the Human Sciences, and Hutchinson Medal from the Chicago Botanic Garden. Dr. Ramaswamy’s BSc (Ag) in agriculture and MSc (Ag) in entomology are from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, India. Following his doctorate in entomology from Rutgers University, Dr. Ramaswamy undertook postdoctoral research at Michigan State University. He is also a graduate of the Management Development Program at Harvard University.
Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy is president of Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities in Redmond, WA. He served for six years as President Barack Obama’s appointee as the Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture in Washington, DC. Previously, Dr. Ramaswamy served as Dean of Oregon State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences, Director of Purdue’s Agricultural Research Programs, University Distinguished Professor and Head of the Entomology Department at Kansas State University, and Professor of Entomology at Mississippi State University. He has published over 150 journal articles, book chapters, and a book, and has a patent. Dr. Ramaswamy is the recipient of several awards and honors, including Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Fellow of the Entomological Society of America, Food Systems Leadership Award for Extraordinary Impacts on Food Systems, the Ellen Swallow Richards Public Service Award for Visionary Leadership and Exceptional Contributions to Advance the Human Sciences, and Hutchinson Medal from the Chicago Botanic Garden. Dr. Ramaswamy’s BSc (Ag) in agriculture and MSc (Ag) in entomology are from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, India. Following his doctorate in entomology from Rutgers University, Dr. Ramaswamy undertook postdoctoral research at Michigan State University. He is also a graduate of the Management Development Program at Harvard University.
VIP's LOCAL LEADERS
A critical part of VIP's model is to create two way relationships that merge local insights with Israel's cutting-edge experience, expertise, innovations and problem solving capacities. Our key local advisors are an essential element of our approach
facilitating appropriate localisation and the identification of strong local partners.
Ngabaghila Chatata
MALAWI
Ngabaghila Chatata (Ngaba) is a prominent Malawian agrientrepreneur and our first partner for the IAPP program. When Ngaba realized that Malawi was importing nearly all of its high value crops, she recognized a sizable opportunity and envisaged Malawi as a country that could grow its own food. As a result, she and her husband founded Thanthwe Farms. Today their farm constructs greenhouses for farmers and agribusinesses, grows and brings horticulture products to market and incubates other agri-businesses. Ngaba operates a profitable farm and has provided training for over 3,000 Malawians to empower youth, smallholder farmers and other agri-entrepreneurs. Currently, Ngaba provides training for 150 smallholder farmer households and incubates 180 agri-entrepreneurs annually.
Ngabaghila Chatata (Ngaba) is a prominent Malawian agrientrepreneur and our first partner for the IAPP program. When Ngaba realized that Malawi was importing nearly all of its high value crops, she recognized a sizable opportunity and envisaged Malawi as a country that could grow its own food. As a result, she and her husband founded Thanthwe Farms. Today their farm constructs greenhouses for farmers and agribusinesses, grows and brings horticulture products to market and incubates other agri-businesses. Ngaba operates a profitable farm and has provided training for over 3,000 Malawians to empower youth, smallholder farmers and other agri-entrepreneurs. Currently, Ngaba provides training for 150 smallholder farmer households and incubates 180 agri-entrepreneurs annually.
Dr. Akhilesh Kumar
INDIA
Dr. Akhilesh Kumar is a Plant Molecular Biologist and agri-entrepreneur. He boasts over 16 years experience spanning academic research, agricultural entrepreneurship, consulting and mentorship. Dr. Kumar spent four years of his academic career as a visiting scientist at Israel’s Volcani Institute. In India, Dr. Kumar worked as part of the first Indo-Israel Centre of Excellence in Karnal (Haryana) and provided advisory services on agricultural projects in more than 15 Indian states.
Dr. Akhilesh Kumar is a Plant Molecular Biologist and agri-entrepreneur. He boasts over 16 years experience spanning academic research, agricultural entrepreneurship, consulting and mentorship. Dr. Kumar spent four years of his academic career as a visiting scientist at Israel’s Volcani Institute. In India, Dr. Kumar worked as part of the first Indo-Israel Centre of Excellence in Karnal (Haryana) and provided advisory services on agricultural projects in more than 15 Indian states.
Dr. Ahmed Nasser
PALESTINIAN AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT & PARTNERSHIPS
Dr. Ahmed Nasser is an expert in soil and environmental chemistry who serves as a Senior Researcher and as Head of the Inter-Institutional Analytical Instrumentation Unit (Tsabam) at the Volcani Institute. He holds two patents and over 40 academic publications. Ahmed devotes much of his time to community activity with emphasis on Palestinian and joint Israeli-Palestinian projects. For example, since 2007 Dr. Nasser has served as a member of the board of directors of the Alnayzak organization, an NGO devoted to the promotion of education in the fields of science and technology in the Palestinian community. Since 2017, Dr. Nasser has also served as a board member and guest lecturer at the Arava Institute at Kibbutz Ktura, an institute specializing in environmental and agricultural training for Palestinians and foreign students, including from Arab countries. Dr. Nasser serves as a consultant and instructor for the Merimis Company located in Ramallah and specializes in capacity building in the field of agriculture in the Palestinian Authority.
Dr. Ahmed Nasser is an expert in soil and environmental chemistry who serves as a Senior Researcher and as Head of the Inter-Institutional Analytical Instrumentation Unit (Tsabam) at the Volcani Institute. He holds two patents and over 40 academic publications. Ahmed devotes much of his time to community activity with emphasis on Palestinian and joint Israeli-Palestinian projects. For example, since 2007 Dr. Nasser has served as a member of the board of directors of the Alnayzak organization, an NGO devoted to the promotion of education in the fields of science and technology in the Palestinian community. Since 2017, Dr. Nasser has also served as a board member and guest lecturer at the Arava Institute at Kibbutz Ktura, an institute specializing in environmental and agricultural training for Palestinians and foreign students, including from Arab countries. Dr. Nasser serves as a consultant and instructor for the Merimis Company located in Ramallah and specializes in capacity building in the field of agriculture in the Palestinian Authority.
Thierry Ngoga
RWANDA
Thierry has over 16 years’ experience providing strategic and operational solutions to governments and development partners in relation to land management, agriculture and urban development. His deep experience – which spans 17 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa – has often focused on designing low-cost, locally grown solutions to issues related to natural resource management, agricultural systems and governance. Thierry has provided advisory services for programs implemented by World Bank, IFC, MCC, the Rwandan Government, Dutch Government, DFID and USAID. Thierry currently serves as the Head of Support to State Capability at the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).
Thierry has over 16 years’ experience providing strategic and operational solutions to governments and development partners in relation to land management, agriculture and urban development. His deep experience – which spans 17 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa – has often focused on designing low-cost, locally grown solutions to issues related to natural resource management, agricultural systems and governance. Thierry has provided advisory services for programs implemented by World Bank, IFC, MCC, the Rwandan Government, Dutch Government, DFID and USAID. Thierry currently serves as the Head of Support to State Capability at the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).
Key Local Advisor
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