Noa Barazani
Founder

Olim

1) What qualities make the nominee deserving of the Z3 Bridge Builder Award?

Noa is the founder of Olim in TLV, a vibrant and fast-growing community that showcases life in Israel through a raw, honest, and often hilarious lens. What began as a simple idea—highlighting the real, unfiltered experiences of new immigrants—has evolved into a powerful platform that bridges the gap between Jews in Israel and around the world. Noa recognized a missing narrative: the everyday struggles, absurdities, and moments of beauty that Olim face in Tel Aviv, and she brought them to life in a way that resonates deeply with both locals and global Jewish audiences.

Through her creative content, Noa has generated millions of views and impressions, using humor and storytelling to create common ground and spark meaningful conversation. From cultural misunderstandings to emotional reflections on identity, her posts have helped people feel seen, laugh together, and feel more connected to Israel in an accessible, authentic way.

But Noa’s impact goes far beyond social media. Under her leadership, Olim in TLV has grown into a real-world community, hosting events both in Israel and abroad, launching a podcast, organizing fundraisers, and building partnerships that amplify the voices and needs of Olim. Her ability to lead with empathy, creativity, and relentless dedication has created a safe, inclusive space for Jews from every background to feel at home—whether they’re just visiting or making Aliyah themselves.

Noa exemplifies the spirit of a bridge builder. Her work strengthens Jewish identity, fosters unity, and encourages honest dialogue across generations, geographies, and ideologies. Her passion is contagious, her voice is authentic, and her commitment to connecting Jews around the world is truly inspiring.

2) In what ways has the nominee demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to their work in bridging divides?

Over two years ago, while working full-time at a high-tech company, Noa launched Olim in TLV as a side project. But as the page quickly gained traction and began resonating with thousands, she made the bold decision to pursue it as a full-time venture—dedicating herself to building a stronger, more connected community of Olim and Israelis.

Noa consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership by ensuring every voice is heard. She brings together people from diverse backgrounds—native Israelis and new immigrants from countries like France, Argentina, the U.S., Russia, Ethiopia, Brazil, and beyond—creating a shared space where cultural and linguistic differences are embraced. Her events are intentionally inclusive, often spotlighting the traditions, foods, languages, and stories of different immigrant communities, while fostering meaningful collaboration with local Israelis. Through this, she has built a community where people don’t just coexist—they connect.

Noa’s commitment is deeply personal. She takes the time to respond to every single direct message—often in the hundreds—and uses this constant dialogue to guide her content, events, and initiatives. She has her finger on the pulse of the community, adapting quickly and thoughtfully to current events and collective emotions, whether in the wake of October 7th, tensions with Iran, or other moments of national crisis. In every situation, she leads with empathy, humor, and purpose—providing stability and a sense of belonging when it’s needed most.

Her mission is clear and unwavering: to create a vibrant, supportive, and inclusive space in Israel where people from all over the world—immigrants and Israelis alike—can come together, feel at home, and build a shared future.

3) How has the nominee's work impacted the Jewish community and beyond?

Noa’s impact on the Jewish community—and beyond—has been extraordinary. She receives messages every day from people whose lives have been changed through her work. Whether it's someone finding the courage to make Aliyah, a visitor deciding to extend their stay in Israel, or an Oleh finding meaning and connection during a challenging transition, Noa’s presence has provided inspiration, encouragement, and emotional support to thousands.

Many have shared that Olim in TLV gave them the confidence to move to Israel, the push they needed to stay, or simply helped them feel less alone. Her voice resonates far beyond the Jewish community as well—she’s received countless messages from non-Jews thanking her for sharing an honest, human, and joyful side of Israel that is rarely seen in mainstream media.

Her events are consistently sold out, bringing together hundreds of people from diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds. These gatherings have sparked friendships, professional opportunities, and even romantic relationships—helping to build not just a community, but a genuine sense of belonging.

Noa’s work is felt on a daily basis. Her content is a touchpoint for thousands, with people eagerly awaiting her weekly and daily segments—especially fan favorites like Hot Take Thursdays. These posts blend humor, cultural commentary, and community insight, and have become a key part of many Olim’s week—offering laughter, perspective, and connection.

In addition to being featured in various media outlets, Noa has been invited to speak at women’s leadership conferences that highlight transformative voices in the Jewish world. She’s also built a growing team of ambassadors and made it proud, fun, and aspirational to be connected with Israel, Judaism, and community.

Noa is incredibly deserving of this award. In just a short time, she has made a tremendous impact—and she’s only scratching the surface of what’s possible. Her energy, creativity, and dedication to bringing people together make her one of the most promising bridge builders of her generation.