ABOUT Mike Silverman

Mike Silverman – Candidate for the 2025 World Zionist Congress.

Representing Habonim Dror Aotearoa (“Habonim”) and Parents & Friends of Habonim NZ (“PnF”).

Endorsed by HaAvoda/Labour Zionist Movement & Brit Etz.

Shalom, my name is Mike Silverman. I am proud to stand as a delegate candidate for the 2025 World Zionist Congress, representing Habonim and PnF under the banner of HaAvoda and Brit Etz in Israel.

As a small, yet committed Jewish community in the South Pacific, we hold a deep connection for Israel. But distance presents challenges, and it’s vital that Israel continues to support our efforts to strengthen this connection and sustain our community for future generations.

HaAvoda has pledged its support to us—through PnF and Habonim—which will help empower our incredible Madrichim (Youth Leaders). With your support, they will have greater resources, expanded educational programs, and more opportunities to reach Chanachim (participants) beyond just Auckland and Wellington. This means a more vibrant and inclusive future for Jewish youth across New Zealand.

I am a member of the Auckland Hebrew Congregation and I work for the Auckland Chevra Kadisha as their Property/Operations Manager. I was previously on the Goldwater Trust Board and responsible for the property portfolio.

My journey with Habonim began as a toddler growing up next to the old Habonim maodon in Parnell. I officially joined Schtilim in 1980, attended numerous winter and summer camps, went on Shnat Hagshara in 1990, and was Rosh HaMachaneh for summer camp in 1992.

For the past decade, I have co-led PnF with my wife Shari, working closely with Habonim Mazkirut, Madrichim, and wider parent community to ensure our Youth Movement thrives. Watching our young leaders grow and contribute so meaningfully to Jewish life in Aotearoa has been a true privilege.

My two sons - Jono, who went on Shnat in 2023 and is a Madrich in Auckland, and Ben, who is a junior Madrich - have been involved with Habonim from a very young age.

For over 75 years, graduates of Habonim have shaped Jewish communities in New Zealand and beyond—and continue to be powerful advocates for Israel. I believe passionately in the potential of this movement and ask for your vote to help strengthen its impact.

👉 Register to vote at https://nz.eventmagix.com
(Yes, it costs $3—but it’s a small price to help sustain and support our Jewish future.)

 🗳️ Voting opens 15 June and runs through 30 June 2025.

Make your voice count. Vote Mike Silverman, Parents & Friends of Habonim NZ and Habonim Dror Aotearoa.

The World Zionist Organisation (WZO) is the connection between Israel and the Jewish communities in the diaspora that support Eretz Israel.