Einat Levi first arrived in Morocco 15 years ago, leading delegations of Israeli businesspeople and tourists across the kingdom. After Israel opened its embassy in Rabat, she was recruited to join its staff as an economic advisor. Two years later, she left to establish a nonprofit organization aimed at strengthening Moroccan-Israeli ties and preserving Jewish heritage in the country. Now, her efforts are receiving major recognition.
This year, Levi is being granted the "Coup de Cœur" (choice of the heart) Award in the northwestern city of Sidi Kacem. The award committee, sponsored by Morocco’s Culture Ministry, describes: "Through this distinction, the Forum wishes to recognize your outstanding intellectual contribution to the study of cross-cultural relations, dialogue, and cooperation, as well as your commitment to fostering deeper mutual understanding between communities and nations."
Originally from Haifa, Levi is the only Israeli among this year’s honorees. Speaking to Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth, she said, “I was surprised to get the news while touring in Shefar'am. I was so moved that I couldn’t hold back my tears. For me, the heart has always been the compass that guided my path to Morocco."
After October 7, were you afraid to continue living in Morocco?
“Absolutely. I was in Israel when the war in Gaza broke out. I asked myself whether I should go back, whether I would feel safe. I decided to stay in Israel for a month before returning. Since then, there are places I avoid, but overall, I feel safe. People know I’m Israeli and treat me with respect. I know many Moroccan citizens; some have become close friends, fully aware that I’m Israeli."
Levi received the award alongside renowned Moroccan Jew André Azoulay, 84, a longtime senior adviser to Morocco’s monarchs. “He’s a Jewish leader of great stature who opened many doors for me in Morocco,” she said.
“It’s very moving. It’s hard to believe that an Israeli is honored during such challenging times of boycotts and protests,” Levi said. “Still, giving an award to an Israeli like me, and to a distinguished Jewish figure like André Azoulay, sends a clear message about the Moroccan government’s position: this is an Arab country that wants to promote intercultural relations and mutual understanding. That’s no easy task, especially given the current climate toward Israel across much of the Arab world.”