Maya Vorobyov grew up with a deep appreciation for Jewish identity and resilience. She grew up straddling between being secular and deeply Zionist, immersing in Israeli life yet aware of the fragility of Jewish freedom. Her early work producing IDF delegations abroad exposed her to the importance of strengthening ties between Israel and Jewish communities worldwide and ultimately shaped her path. Today, as Executive Director of TalkIsrael, Maya is empowering young creators to reshape how Israel is seen online.

Through free workshops, fellowships, and partnerships across the United States and Israel, TalkIsrael equips emerging and established creators with tools in storytelling, branding, and digital strategy. Maya’s philosophy is simple but powerful. Instead of leading with politics, lead with people. Share Shabbat dinners, beach sunsets, Pride celebrations, culture, food, and everyday resilience. In a social media environment saturated with conflict, she believes authenticity and Jewish joy resonate most, especially with a generation that connects to lived experience over talking points.

In this conversation with Our Campus United’s Founder & CEO Yasmeen Ohebsion, Maya offers practical advice for students navigating online hate and hesitation. Your voice matters, no matter your following. Focus on those who are open to learning, lead with personal experience, and stay consistent. At a time when many young Jews feel pressure to stay quiet, her message is clear. Speak up with confidence, creativity, and pride.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, thoughts, or opinions of Our Campus United (“OCU”), its affiliates, or any other individuals or entities associated with OCU.

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