JSpaceCanada, Canada’s leading pro-Israel, pro-peace, pro-democracy Zionist advocacy organization, is proud to announce the appointment of Maytal Kowalski as the organization’s first Executive Director.
The Board of Director’s appointment of Kowalski is a significant milestone for JSpaceCanada, which has been volunteer-run for its 14-year history, to date. This milestone is a product of the organization’s remarkable growth and increased capacity for impact under Kowalski’s leadership.
“I am honoured to take on this role at such a pivotal time for JSpaceCanada and for Israel,” said Kowalski. “This moment represents a step towards professionalizing the pro-peace movement in Canada and is the result of the remarkable progress we’ve made as an organization. It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of our many members, volunteers, and supporters. I look forward to continuing to build on our successes and advancing our mission of promoting peace, democracy, and human rights for Israelis and Palestinians.”
Kowalski has served on the Board of Directors of JSpaceCanada since 2022 and has served on the Board’s Executive since 2023. Amid organizational changes in the wake of the October 7 attacks and the resulting war between Israel and Hamas, Kowalski accepted the role of Interim Chair in February 2023. A proud dual Canadian-Israeli citizen, Kowalski has demonstrated exceptional dedication to advocacy focused on an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through a negotiated two-state solution championed by Canadian Jews. Her strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in expanding JSpaceCanada’s reach and influence.
Kowalski has led JSpaceCanada to significant achievements, organizing high-profile conferences, executing impactful advocacy campaigns, and establishing meaningful partnerships with partner organizations. Professionalization is the next step in ensuring that JSpaceCanada can sustain and amplify its efforts toward building Canadian support for a just, negotiated two-state solution.
Jeff Larry, partner at law firm Paliare Roland will step into the role of Board Chair on an interim basis. Jon Allen, former Canadian ambassador to Israel will remain in his position as chair of the JSpaceCanada Policy Centre. A formal search to fill vacant board positions will begin this month.