Inspired by Ari Mittleman’s Paths of the Righteous: Heroism, Humanity, and Hope, the evening features Olga Meshoe Washington, a South Africa-born Christian whose personal experiences living under apartheid rule in South Africa inform her views on the Jewish State of Israel; and Lt. Aston Bright, a dedicated member of the Plantation Fire Department in South Florida whose life growing up around many Jewish friends led him to fighting fires in Israel—many in the wake of Hamas terrorist attacks—and speaking to communities around the world about Jews and Israel.

Now is the time to shine a spotlight on everyday heroes from diverse backgrounds who ardently support the Jewish People. The conversation will be moderated by the book’s author, Ari Mittleman, and celebrates the human spirit’s capacity for kindness, resilience, and positive change.

More about the Panelists
South African native, attorney, connector, and author, Olga Meshoe Washington is a keen pro-Israel advocate and in this capacity serves as the Chief Executive Officer of DEISI International and as a board member of the Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel. Olga’s expertise and unique narrative on South Africa and Africa relations with Israel, the Christian mandate to stand with Israel and her engaging delivery have contributed to Olga being a regular on the speakers’ circuit across Africa and the United States. In 2022, Olga was invited to speak at the 49th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and also participated in a UNHRC side event hosted by UN Watch in Geneva.   

Olga was named as one of South Africa’s 2011 influential young Christian leaders and in 2016 she received the 2016 Jerusalem Award from the World Zionist Organization, in recognition of advocacy for the state of Israel and the South African Jewish Community. Olga’s literary work includes Israelophobia and the West by the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs. Olga also currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Club Z, a Zionist Youth Program in the US.

Lt. Aston Bright, Plantation Fire Department, is dedicated to fighting fires in Israel through the Emergency Volunteers Project. This dedication reflects his friendship to the Jewish people and his commitment to helping others in times of need. Growing up surrounded by Jewish friends, he developed a deep bond with and love for the Jewish community, which has driven him to be a vocal advocate for Jewish people and Israel. His experiences and insights into the resilience and strength of the Jewish community, along with his unique role in supporting Israel, promise to provide a touching and inspirational addition to the conversation.