Defending Our Future. Protecting Our Past.
Councillor Brad Bradford
Brad Bradford is the City Councillor for Ward 19, Beaches–East York.
Brad believes that Toronto should be the best place in the world to raise a family, build a business, and get ahead. He brings an energetic and practical approach to City Hall, with a focus on breaking down bureaucracy, treating taxpayer dollars with respect, and making local government deliver more for Torontonians.
Brad believes that public safety is job number one for local government, and that everyone should be able to move about our city free from harassment, hate and intimidation. That is why he has been such a loud and outspoken voice against the shocking rise in antisemitism which he has witnessed on Toronto’s streets. Working alongside community leaders, including Councillor James Pasternak, Brad spent more than a year pushing for the Mayor and Council to introduce safe access zones (“bubble zones”) around places of worship, schools, and daycares. Their collective efforts led to winning a Council vote in May 2025. As of August, more than 40 establishments now have these protections in place.
Brad, his wife Kathryn, and their daughters Briar and Bronwyn are proud to call Beaches–East York home.
Rev. Dr. Jason Byassee
Jason Byassee is the senior minister of Timothy Eaton Memorial Church in Toronto, Ontario.
He was previously a full professor and the inaugural holder of the Butler Chair in Homiletics and Biblical Hermeneutics at the Vancouver School of Theology in British Columbia.
He is the author or editor of a number of books, including, most recently, Northern Lights: Resurrecting Church in the North of England, with Ross Lockhart, Better than Brunch: Missional Churches in Cascadia (both with Cascade) and Surprised by Jesus Again (Eerdmans). His work has appeared in Christianity Today, Theology Today, Books & Culture, Sojourners, and First Things. He is the editor of the nine-volume Pastoring for Life series with Baker Academic. It includes his own book with Andria Irwin, Following: Embodied Discipleship in a Digital Age (Baker).
He was previously senior pastor of Boone United Methodist Church in Boone, North Carolina. There he directed eight other pastoral staff members, led a staff of sixteen, and pastored a congregation of 1500 from five worshiping communities. He has also served as pastor of a small, rural congregation in NC, as interim preacher at First Baptist Vancouver, and as preacher to the English-speaking congregation at Chinese Presbyterian in Vancouver.
He is married to Jaylynn Warren Byassee, a fellow Methodist minister from the US, who is presently pastoring at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Toronto. Together they have three boys, ages 22, 20, and 18. Things still break in their house.
Andrew Brethour
Andrew Brethour is Executive Chairman of PMA Brethour Realty Group, which includes PMA Brethour Real Estate Corporation Inc., PMA Brethour Research Associates, PMA Land Services, PMA SalesMasters, PMA Leasing, and PMA Insiders. A registered Real Estate Broker and Broker of Record, Andrew joined PMA in 1977, became owner and President in 1989, advanced to Chairman & CEO in 2016, and transitioned to Executive Chairman in 2021. Today, PMA provides leading sales, marketing, and research services to the building and development industry from offices in Toronto, Ottawa, Collingwood, Calgary, Kelowna, and Naples.
Beyond his professional success, Andrew has been a lifelong advocate for tolerance, understanding, and human rights. Raised in North Toronto in the 1950s on the edge of the Jewish community, his early experiences shaped his conviction that antisemitism is born of fear, ignorance, and misinformation—and that only tolerance and education can overcome it. “I grew up a Christian and my parents instilled in me the values of tolerance and understanding at an early age…regardless of race, religion or creed”.
This conviction led him to support AGPI, where he has been an active supporter of its mission to combat antisemitism and defend freedom and democracy. He has participated in AGPI events in Toronto, Miami, and at the United Nations; joined the Walk for Israel; and widely shared AGPI’s educational work to thousands.
Honoured to be recognized as a Hero of AGPI, Andrew remains committed to the belief that “no one of us is as great as all of us together.”
Rebecca Eckler
Rebecca Eckler is a 10x bestselling, award-winning author and the founder of re:books, a publishing house dedicated to championing debut female authors. This Fall, she is launching Rivka Books, Canada’s first Jewish-focused broad commercial imprint, publishing works by Jewish authors and featuring Jewish themes and characters. She is also the co-founder of CANREADS, Canada’s premier book review and award site.
Beyond her literary achievements, Rebecca has become a powerful and courageous online presence, defending Israel and fighting antisemitism with clarity and conviction. Her unapologetic voice has inspired countless others to stand firm against hatred and misinformation. At a time when Jewish voices—particularly those of women—are being silenced, she has boldly championed Jewish female authors, ensuring that their stories are heard and amplified.
Eckler’s career includes work as a columnist with the National Post and The Globe and Mail, and contributions to leading publications across North America, including The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times. She is currently working on her new memoir, A Lawyer’s Wife.
A mother of two, Rebecca balances her love of watermelon and yoga with an unwavering commitment to advocacy for the Jewish community.
Aaron Hadida
Aaron Hadida is the founder of Magen Herut Security, a dedicated initiative aimed at safeguarding the Jewish community. Recognizing the increasing need for security, he established a robust network that combines volunteer efforts with professional services. His commitment extends beyond routine protection; he actively advocates for Israel, ensuring that the community stays informed and united.
Under Hadida's leadership, Magen Herut Security has provided protection for numerous high-profile figures, including former hostages, ambassadors, and speakers. This level of security not only showcases his expertise but also reflects his unwavering commitment to community safety. With patrols conducted seven nights a week, Hadida ensures that synagogues, cultural events, and gatherings across North America are well-guarded.
Hadida's approach is deeply rooted in his passion for his work, which is not merely a job but a mission to foster peace and safety within the community. His tireless efforts have earned him respect and gratitude from those he protects. By creating a structured yet flexible security model, he has bridged the gap between community involvement and professional security needs.
The impact of Magen Herut Security goes beyond physical safety; it instills a sense of trust and assurance within the Jewish community. Through his relentless dedication, Aaron Hadida exemplifies leadership and compassion, proving that security is essential for a thriving community, allowing members to live and gather without fear.
Maureen Leshem
For over 35 years, Maureen Leshem has been a fierce advocate for dignity and justice. She is the founder of the 482 Collective, an award-winning charity that provided vital support to women and children escaping domestic violence and human trafficking.
In the aftermath of October 7th, when her cousin was abducted by Hamas and the world abandoned its commitment to human rights, Maureen chose to close her organization to focus fully on strengthening the Jewish community. Now she works—both publicly and behind the scenes—to advocate for the release of the hostages and to hold individuals, organizations, and governments accountable.
Her efforts include: pressing the Minister of Foreign Affairs on Canada’s $1 million pledge to address sexual violence committed by Hamas; leading high-profile forums on the weaponization of sexual violence; challenging failed inclusion policies at the municipal level; spearheading private tours of the Nova Exhibit for senior OPP and RCMP officers; delivering a landmark antisemitism-awareness presentation at the YRP Hate Crimes Conference; and advising Jewish education and advocacy groups on their strategic priorities.
With a deep sense of belonging and responsibility to the Jewish people, Maureen has emerged as a powerful voice in the fight against antisemitism. Unapologetically principled, she refuses to bend to pressure and calls out blatant and covert antisemitism—even when it is uncomfortable or unpopular. Her authentic voice and decisive leadership in the fight for Jewish civil rights have made her a steady force for justice and dignity, reminding people to act with courage and integrity.
Rev. Andrew Love
Pastor at Grace St Andrews United Church: Andrew Love is an ordained minister with the United Church of Canada. Since 2006, Andrew has served a number of congregations in East Ontario. Currently, he leads ministry at Dominion-Chalmers United Church in Ottawa. Andrew has been active in multi-faith initiatives for over ten years. He is particularly involved in Christian-Jewish dialogue in Canada. He is writing and blogging on this at theologic.ca. He is a retired military chaplain of the Canadian Armed Forces and served as Brigade Chaplain for 33CBG. Prior to becoming a minister, Andrew was a Vice-President with Weber Shandwick International providing strategic communications counsel and brand management services to global technology companies.
Nir Maman
Nir was born in Israel and grew up in Canada most of his life. Since the age of 18, he has dedicated his life to Serving and Protecting. His professional background includes 30 years of service between the Military in Israel and Policing and Security in both Canada and the United States.
In Israel, Nir served as a Commander in the IDF’s Special Forces Counter Terror Unit and Counter Terror School where he held numerous positions including lead instructor for the IDF’s Hostage Rescue units and for all the Special units from the United States of America that would be sent to the IDF Counter Terror School for specialized training before they deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan for the Global War on Terror.
Over the course of the past 30 years, Nir has also served as head of security for numerous Diplomats from Israel and other countries, as well as for celebrities and corporate executives. Additionally, Nir has also been retained on numerous occasions to locate and rescue victims who have been abducted and taken to dangerous countries around the world.
After October 7, Nir kissed his Wife and five children (ages 21, 19, 16, 10, and 5) goodbye as he boarded his flight to Israel. For over a year, Nir deployed for 5 combat tours during the IDF’s war against Hamas where he served between two special commando units carrying out various missions throughout Gaza and Judea Samaria.
Guidy Mamann
Guidy Mamann was called to the Bar of Ontario in 1987 and to the Bar of Massachusetts in 2025. He is certified by the Law Society of Ontario as a specialist in Immigration and Citizenship Law: Case Management and Litigation and in Refugee Protection.
He is the founding partner of Mamann Sandaluk LLP, one of Canada’s foremost immigration law firms, and has appeared widely in media, conferences, and legal forums as an expert commentator on immigration policy and reform. He has testified as an expert witness before Canada’s Parliament and the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security, providing insight into cross-border immigration issues and national policy. He is regarded as one of Canada’s leading authorities in his field.
A staunch Zionist and defender of Israel, Guidy’s lifelong commitment to Jewish communal service began during his presidency of the Jewish Students’ Federation of York University. He later served as President of Jewish Immigrant Aid Services of Toronto (JIAS) and currently serves as President of the Toronto Zionist Council, where he works to modernize and energize Zionist engagement in Canada.
He is also President of the Tiferet Israel Congregation and the founder of Toronto’s Weekly Rally for Israel, which ran for 107 consecutive weeks following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
Guidy is the recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal and an Award for Outstanding Community Service from the Consulate General of Israel in Toronto.
He and his wife, Monica, are the proud parents of four daughters, two of whom have made Aliyah to Israel.
Susan Minuk
Courage takes many forms—raising one’s voice against injustice, offering comfort in grief, or standing firm when silence feels easier. Susan Minuk has long exemplified that courage through her work in Canadian media, community leadership, and advocacy on behalf of Israel and the Jewish people.
With more than two decades of experience in Canadian media, Susan is best known as host of JWeekly Canada, the only Jewish television program in the country. Through this platform, she has built meaningful connections across communities and faiths, giving voice to important issues and ensuring that stories of resilience, identity, and truth are told. In 2025, she co-produced a three-part series on antisemitism in Canada, set to air on OMNI TV. Featuring many distinct voices, the series underscores the urgent need for education, solidarity, and action in confronting hatred.
Beyond journalism, Susan has dedicated years of service to the Canadian Friends of Herzog Hospital in Israel, supporting victims of terror and providing a voice for those most affected by violence—especially since the October 7th attacks.
For her unwavering commitment to truth, education, and community, and for her leadership in standing against antisemitism while strengthening bonds of understanding, Susan Minuk is being recognized with the AGPI Hero Award.
Esther Mordechai
Since October 7th, Esther Mordechai has dedicated her life to defending and strengthening the Jewish community while continuing her longstanding work supporting women and families. She founded CWAA, the first female-led initiative dedicated to fighting antisemitism, ensuring that women’s voices are at the forefront of this struggle.
She also established B.A.M. Canada, an organization supporting marginalized Jewish seniors, women, and families through resources, advocacy, and community. Since the war began, B.A.M. has expanded its mission to unite women in advocacy for Israel, amplifying voices too often overlooked and building bridges between vulnerable communities facing different but connected struggles.
In response to the war against Israel and the ongoing hostage crisis, Esther initiated the Bathurst and Sheppard Rally—now recognized as the longest-running rally in the world in support of Israel and the hostages. This weekly gathering has become a powerful symbol of Jewish resilience and solidarity. On university campuses, she launched the Encampment Dismantlement Task Force to confront the surge of antisemitism and unsafe encampments, working to ensure Jewish students are protected.
Esther has also represented the community directly at decision-making tables, delivering deputations at the Toronto District School Board and at the Police Board, where she demanded accountability and stronger protections.
Even before October 7th, she was mobilizing support for refugees, played an important part in implementing Kiera’s Law that protects victims of Intimate Partner Violence, and championing single mothers in Toronto. Esther is also one of the founder of Kurdish and Azerbaijani lobby in Canada, building bridges between Muslim and Jewish communities.
Today, those experiences fuel her resolve. Esther Mordechai’s impact since October 7th is rooted in one belief: that communities must stand together, visibly and persistently until safety and freedom are secured for all.
Alan Wainer
The words of the late Max Eisen continue to guide Alan Wainer’s work: “Are you going to be a bystander or an upstander?” For Alan, the answer has always been clear. He has chosen to act—keeping the hostages in mind and standing steadfastly with Israel and the Jewish community in Canada and the diaspora.
Over the past two years, Alan has faced criticism and labels—“Zionist” and “racist” among them—for defending Israel publicly. Yet he has also built strong alliances across Canada, the United States, Ireland, the UK, Australia, and Israel. The son of a Holocaust survivor, Alan feels a deep responsibility to confront antisemitism, challenge the double standards applied to Israel, and speak out against those who deny the Jewish people’s right to self-determination.
Alan has used his voice on social media to advocate for Israel and Jewish communities worldwide. He has written extensively to Canadian leaders, including MPs Melissa Lantsman, Anita Anand, and Mélanie Joly, as well as Ontario MPPs and the Prime Minister, urging them to ensure Jewish Canadians receive equal protection under the law. For Alan, words without action ring hollow, and political expediency reflects a lack of moral courage.
Beyond advocacy, Alan has actively participated in Jewish organizational events, webinars, and podcasts, both to strengthen his community and to deepen his knowledge. While he wishes for peace in the Middle East, he believes it must not come at the cost of Israel’s security or survival.
Rev. Dr. David Wells
Rev. Dr. David Wells been outspoken in the fight against Antisemitism. He has served as general superintendent of The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC) since May 2008. He was appointed general superintendent at General Conference 2008. The PAOC has over 1,200 affiliated churches, satellites and church plants, 3,700 credentialed ministers and a constituency of close to 270,000 people across Canada. Internationally, the organization has close to 300 global workers serving in more than 50 nations.
Dave serves as the vice-chair of the Pentecostal World Fellowship. President of the Pentecostal and Charismatic Churches of North America and on the executive of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship. He served on the board of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada from 1999-2013 and served as chair of that board from 2007-2013.
Sharlene Wilder
Sharlene Wilder has spent her life building connections, in her home, her community, and across the Jewish world. Married to her husband, Sheldon Freeman, for almost 33 years, and the proud mother of Noah, Emily, and Hannah, she has always believed in creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and united.
For nearly two decades, Sharlene channeled that gift into a thriving career as an event planner, crafting celebrations filled with beauty, warmth, and meaning. After October 7th, her skills took on urgent new purpose. She stepped into community advocacy with the same creativity and drive that defined her career, now to stand against antisemitism and strengthen the voice of the Jewish people.
She has helped lead rallies drawing thousands, partnered with grassroots organizations to bring influential voices such as Noa Tishby, Caroline D’Amore, Eylon Levy, Elica LeBon, and Jonny Daniels to Toronto, and organized countless speaking engagements for Druze IDF soldier Nohad Mansour. Most recently, she welcomed released hostage Eliya Cohen and Nova survivor Ziv Abud to share their testimonies. In 2024, her efforts were recognized with a Community Leadership Award from MP Kevin Vuong.
Her work extends far beyond public events. As a March of the Living and Biluim Israel chaperone, she has guided teens on transformative journeys through Poland and Israel, forging lasting bonds with participants, Holocaust survivors, and IDF soldiers. Her home is a hub of connection, with gatherings and Shabbat dinners bringing together youth, survivors, wounded soldiers, and allies.
Known for her warmth, determination, and ability to turn vision into impact, Sharlene doesn’t just organize events, she builds relationships, sparks dialogue, and strengthens the ties that hold her community together.
AGPI HEROES award
RECOGNIZING HEROES
Nominate a Hero. Celebrate Courage.
Across our communities, extraordinary individuals are standing tall—defending Israel, confronting antisemitism, and lighting the way with moral clarity. These unsung heroes don’t seek recognition, but their impact, especially since October 7th 2023, is powerful and lasting.
Now is the time to honour their courage.
The AGPI Heroes Award celebrates those who boldly speak the truth, challenge hatred, and stand on the front lines of justice. Whether it's someone you admire—or even yourself—submit a nomination today and help us shine a spotlight on those making a difference.
Award Recipients Will:
- Be honoured at AGPI events
- Featured and profiled in our widely read Friday Report newsletter
- Receive a stunning award trophy and curated gift basket
- Be considered for inclusion in AGPI’s upcoming documentary, Heroes
- Gain access to exclusive AGPI events and programs
To nominate a hero, please email office@agpi.ca with a brief description of the nominee’s courageous work, along with your contact information and theirs.
Together, let’s lift up the voices of those who are making history with their courage.
Questions and Answers About the Program
Q. What are your priorities?
A. AGPI is prioritizing heroes who have been fighting antisemitism and defending Israel since October 7, 2023. However, others may be considered.
Q. Can anyone of any faith be nominated?
A. Yes, we are happy to consider any hero of any faith and background.
Q. Can I nominate myself?
A. Yes, please feel free to nominate yourself.
Q. Is this Award open to children and students as well?
A. Yes, absolutely! People of all ages can be nominated.
Q. How do I nominate someone?
A. Easy. Please send us an email with your name and the nominees contact information. Include a paragraph about the person and why you think they are deserving of the award. We will take it from there! Please email us at office@agpi.ca with the heading, "Heroes Award".
Q. Is there a timeline for this program?
A. No, we intend to keep this program going and recognize as many deserving heroes as possible.
Q. How do you select winners?
A. We have a confidential panel that reviews all nominations.
Q. How long will it take nominees to be notified?
A. It may take up to 3-6 weeks to notify nominees, but only if they are selected.
Q. Who is funding this program?
A. As part of its mission and mandate to counter antisemitism and defend Israel and democracy, AGPI is funding this program through its annual fundraising.
Some of Our Heroes
The Hon. Maurizio Bevilacqua, former Cabinet Minister in Government and former Mayor of Vaughan.
”As a founding director of The Abraham Global Peace Initiative, I am proud of the impactful work we are having in our community, particularly in the area of education, where we are teaching students to pay-it-forward by doing good in their communities. I believe what our world needs now more than ever is more kindness and compassion. Grounded in faith, our organization promotes these values every single day. I invite you to join our movement”
The Hon. Michael Kerzner, Member of Provincial Parliament and Solicitor General of Ontario
”As Ontario’s Solicitor General, I was proud to stand with The Abraham Global Peace Initiative at its gala where we pledged to stand together to confront Antisemitism, racism and all forms of discrimination”.
H.E. Ahmed Obaid AlMansoori, Global Advisory Board
"I am honoured to be part of The Abraham Global Peace Initiative. It is a noble organization that holds noble goals, dedicated for the best of humanity through combating Antisemitism, racism and xenophobia”
Chief Steven Tanner, Halton Regional Police and founding Director of AGPI
“Whether its Antisemitism, Anti-Black racism or any other form of hate and discrimination, we all need to stand up against it”.
Paul V. Godfrey, C.M. O.Ont. Honorary Chairman, AGPI
“I am immensely proud of the global reach we are having through The Abraham Global Peace Initiative. Its incredible to see just how far we have come in as little as two years – to become one of the foremost global activists and thought leaders in the fight against Antisemitism, in pro-Israel advocacy and in the promotion of universal human rights. It’s an honor and a pleasure to serve in the capacity of Honorary Chairman of this amazing organization”.
Sam Korman, 17 year-old Student Leader at AGPI
”My maternal great grandparents were Holocaust survivors.I have personally seen the escalation of Antisemitism. I came to the realization that the best way to fight for a cause that one believes
in is to step up and act. I have taken the initiative and over the
past three months, have built and launched an AGPI youth-focused
Instagram account called AGPIYouth. I want to reach youth my age and raise awareness amongst young people in my community and around the world.”
William Friedman is a prominent lawyer and serves on AGPI’s Board of Governors
“As the son of two Holocaust Survivors, I am proud to support the incredible work of The Abraham Global Peace Initiative. The organization acts locally and globally to memorialize the Holocaust and to combat distortion and denial. As survivors pass away, this work is important now more than ever. If you are a child or descendent of Holocaust Survivors, there is no better legacy you can provide to them than aligning your philanthropy with AGPI. If not us then who?”
Stephen Clark is a prominent Canadian lawyer and a founding board member of AGPI
“As an observer of history, I am deeply concerned about the world my grandchildren will inherit. I have visited the death camps and following the unspeakable crimes against humanity committed during the Holocaust, today we are still asking ourselves if it can happen again. That is just wrong. The Abraham Global Peace Initiative is uniquely focused on creating a mass human movement as a counterweight to the hate and intolerance we are seeing today. No matter your faith or background, we invite you to join us in this important campaign”.
Rhonda Travis is the daughter of Holocaust Survivors, an activist and a registered psychotherapist, helping people with trauma grow through their pain.
“I have never felt I am here by coincidence. As a daughter of two Holocaust survivors, my parents’ lives were spared in order that my life would help fulfill their destiny. The truth must be told and extended beyond their story and mine, into the future.
Today more than ever, I understand my responsibility to bring this message to the world; not from a position of fear, but from love. I am completely dedicated to this mission. I am grateful to AGPI for providing such a platform, as they are committed to ensuring that I am not alone in this important task”.
DEFENDING OUR FUTURE. PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITIES.