American-Israeli to receive prestigious award from pro-Israel watch dog

Justin Hayet, a rising star in the pro-Israel community and a recent oleh, is set to receive the prestigious Portrait of Courage Award from the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis at its upcoming gala in New York City in June. The event, which celebrates Israel’s 75th anniversary, will feature renowned speakers such as Harvard Law Prof. Alan Dershowitz, pro-Israel activist Noa Tishby and British Army Col. Richard Kemp.

A graduate of Binghamton University, Hayet has been actively involved in promoting Israel’s positive image throughout his career. His dedication and commitment to the cause were recognized in 2015 when he received the David Bar Ilan Award for Outstanding Campus Activism at CAMERA’s Gala. This recognition highlighted his exceptional efforts in defending the Jewish state during his time as a student.

After completing his bachelor’s and master’s at Binghamton University, Hayet served as senior adviser to the Israeli ambassador to the UN (2016-19). This position provided him with invaluable experience of and insight into the diplomatic landscape surrounding Israel. Hayet’s role involved attending numerous meetings, offering strategic advice and closely collaborating with ambassador Danny Danon.

Currently residing in Tel Aviv, Hayet serves as COO of the prominent North American Jewish organization Bnai Zion, which aims to showcase Israel’s story through digital media. Under the leadership of Bnai Zion’s CEO Rabbi Dr. Ari Lamm, the impact of its work with social media influencers has reached tens of millions around the world, introducing Israel and the Jewish story to an audience of a scale never before seen in the Jewish world.

Hayet’s contributions to Israel and Bnai Zion have not gone unnoticed, as he was recently featured on Forbes’ Israel “30 under 30” list. CAMERA’s 2023 gala serves as an opportunity to honor Hayet’s dedication and leadership in defending Israel’s image. Taking place at the scenic Chelsea Piers on the Hudson River, the event commemorates Israel’s 75th anniversary and brings together notable figures from various sectors.

Attendees can anticipate a memorable evening featuring a lavish reception, an original CAMERA film showcasing Israel’s contributions, an award ceremony honoring Hayet, and thought-provoking speeches from luminaries in the pro-Israel community.

By recognizing Hayet’s unwavering commitment and highlighting his journey from a proactive campus activist to a prominent figure, CAMERA is highlighting its campus program’s role in helping to shape Hayet, now a rising figure in the global Jewish World.

This article was written in partnership with Bnai Zion.