Connecting Divides, Inspiring Empathy
At InterAct, we are dedicated to building bridges, fostering understanding, and creating a future where coexistence and peace are possible. Our leadership team brings together individuals who have turned personal loss into a powerful commitment to unity.
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In 2023, Israeli peace entrepreneur Maoz Inon joined the leadership team of InterAct. Maoz’s inclusion marked a profound deepening of InterAct’s mission, as both Aziz and Maoz carried the weight of personal tragedies inflicted by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Aziz had lost his brother to violence in his youth, and Maoz experienced the devastating loss of both his parents during the October 7th attacks.
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Rather than succumbing to bitterness, Aziz and Maoz transformed their pain into a shared commitment to peace. Their bond symbolizes hope amid loss, underscoring the power of human connection and the potential to overcome cycles of violence. Through InterAct, they have amplified efforts to promote dialogue, empathy, and mutual understanding, working toward a future where Israelis and Palestinians can coexist in peace and dignity.
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In May 2024, Aziz and Maoz attended the “Arena of Peace” event in the northern Italian city of Verona, where they received the personal embrace and the support of Pope Francis, speak of their shared vision of peace.
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"In front of the suffering of these brothers, which is the suffering of two peoples, nothing can be said. They had the courage to embrace each other, which is not only a testimony but also a project for the future. Both have lost family members. The family is broken because of this war. What good is in war? We make a space of silence because one cannot talk too much. We need to hear." - Pope Francis
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InterAct’s mission is further strengthened by Jewish-American Scott Cooper, whose longstanding dedication to peacebuilding plays an integral role in the organization. Together, Aziz, Maoz, and Scott ensure that InterAct remains a symbol of resilience and a beacon of hope.
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Nearly twenty years ago, Aziz and Scott began their journey as co-directors of a peacebuilding center at George Mason University, the world’s oldest conflict resolution school. They created transformative social change programs across the globe and co-founded MEJDI Tours, a socially conscious travel company that pioneered dual and multi-narrative tours worldwide. Their groundbreaking work earned international recognition from organizations such as the United Nations, The New York Times, National Geographic, and CNN.
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In 2018, they expanded their vision by establishing InterAct as a nonprofit organization (501(c)(3)). Their goal was to bridge divides and foster empathy through innovative workshops on conflict resolution, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and intercultural understanding for schools, businesses, faith organizations, and nonprofits.
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InterAct’s journey is a testament to the power of connection and the belief that humanity can transcend division. Through education, dialogue, and shared experiences, we strive to inspire resilience, empathy, and a brighter future for generations to come.
OUR GOALS
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Challenge our communities to come together to collaboratively tackle hatred, violence, oppression, and war.
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Increase understanding of alternative narratives in conflict zones, overcoming hatred and fear by building empathy and understanding.
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Combat the rise in both Antisemitism and Islamophobia, by humanizing both Jews and Palestinians through personal storytelling.
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Amplify the voices of existing peacemakers and their work, through all forms of traditional and social media.
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Provide support (aid & scholarships) to families brutalized by conflict.
TEAM
Michal Amir is an Israeli professional based in Lausanne, Switzerland, specializing in digital marketing, strategic development, and public relations. She supports the Inon family's peace advocacy efforts as their strategic and public relations manager, focusing on event organization, community engagement, and media outreach. Michal has led impactful initiatives like the "It's Time" coalition's event in Tel Aviv and the PeaceTalks project, which fosters dialogue through media platforms. She also coordinated a significant meeting between peacebuilders Aziz Abu Sarah and Maoz Inon with Pope Francis, promoting reconciliation and understanding. Michal is dedicated to advancing peacebuilding locally and internationally.
Michal Amir
Chief of Staff
Emili is a Palestinian peace activist, with an MA in Public Policy and Political Action from the University of Franche-Comté. As the Programs Manager at InterAct International, she spearheads initiatives promoting dialogue and peacebuilding while empowering communities to address socio-political challenges. A licensed tour guide specializing in geopolitical tours of Palestine and Israel, Emili highlights the region’s complexities. Her career spans roles in local and international NGOs, focusing on organizational development, project planning, and women’s empowerment in tourism. Emili remains a passionate advocate for coexistence and collaborative solutions.
Emili Ghraiyib
Programs Manager
With a communications career that has included on-air broadcasting, a syndicated newspaper column, and corporate public relations for multiple national brands. Most recently Susan has focused on creative relationship building for both Fortune 500 companies as well as in the nonprofit world. She started her peacebuilding work in 2018 with Aziz Abu Sarah and MEJDI Tours and was an unofficial brand ambassador long before joining that team. At Interact, she wears many hats inspired to serve the mission and to help amplify the urgent message of peace.
Susan Holmer
Strategic Partnership and Communications
Kim brings a strong background in education, having served as an instructor in Training & Commanding Courses in the IDF. After her service, she worked with youth, young adults, and organizations to develop educational materials for NGOs, non-formal education, businesses, and tours. Currently, Kim serves as Director of Operations at MEJDI and Administrative Supervisor at InterAct, where she ensures smooth and effective leadership. Holding a Master’s in Immigration and Social Integration, she created interactive activities exploring Israel’s immigration history. Passionate about cultural exchange, Kim volunteers and connects her work to her travels, leading impactful initiatives.
Kim Passy-Yoseph
Administrative supervisor
Anas is a seasoned professional from Hebron, Palestine, with extensive experience in NGO work and international business. He has held diverse roles such as Office Manager, Fundraiser, and Project Coordinator, where he contributed to organizational development and community-focused initiatives. Currently, Anas serves as the Tech Manager at InterAct, leveraging his expertise to support impactful projects and operations. He also specializes in creating authentic visitor experiences in the Holy Land, blending strategic insight with his deep knowledge of the region. Anas is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and driving solutions that benefit both his community and broader audiences.
Anas Maraqa
Tech Manager
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Aziz Abu Sarah
Co-founder
Maoz Inon
Executive Director
Scott Cooper
Co-founder
Katie Davis
Fadwa Barzinji​
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Mark Bauman, Former Director of the Smithsonian’s commercial media division, former EVP Nat Geo TV, former CEO of Virtual Wonders, former war correspondent (ABC News), Emmy Award Winner, Impact Communications Advisor to political campaigns and NGO's.
Sulaiman Al Khatib, Two-time Nobel Peace Prize Nominee, founder of Combatants for Peace & The People’s Peace Fund, co-Author of In This Place Together: A Palestinian’s Guide to Collective Liberation.