Get Up, Rise Up, Kumu: A Conversation with Yonatan Shimriz

In this “Here I Am: Summer of Hope” special episode, Shai interviews an impressive young activist with a moving story of heartbreak, hope, and transforming tragedy into leadership. Yonatan Shimriz’s brother was kidnapped on October 7 and later tragically killed in Gaza by soldiers who thought he was a Hamas terrorist. From that unimaginable loss, Yonatan created the Kumu movement: a vision for Jewish unity, resilience, and a new generation of leaders to meet Israel’s challenges head-on. Kumu is more than a movement. It’s a platform to encourage young leaders to step up and secure a better life for all Israelis. In this powerful conversation, Yonatan shares his journey of grief, courage, and determination — and why he believes every Jew must “get up” and take responsibility to be the leaders Israel needs right now.