Tel Aviv is the second most populous city in Israel, after Jerusalem. The metropolitan area of Tel Aviv is home to the country's entertainment and financial centers, making it a major cultural and economic hub in the Middle East. It also plays host to many notable people who have made their mark on both Israeli society and the world at large.
Sabras, as natives of Tel Aviv are known, include some of the biggest names in politics such as former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak; Nobel Peace Prize Laureates like Shimon Peres; world-renown scientists such as Ada Yonath; entertainers like Ofra Haza; novelists such as Amos Oz and David Grossman; high-tech entrepreneurs like Yossi Vardi and Gur Teitelbaum, just to name a few.
Born outside of Tel Aviv but having close associations with it are celebrities from food (Yotam Ottolenghi), fashion (Rafael Nadal) music (Ilan Ramon) sports (Oded Kattash). Apart from entertaining or competing in their respective talents and disciplines, these individuals have also become spokespersons for progressive causes or for Israel which helps enrich cultural discourse.A newer wave of celebrities has emerged with digital media’s popularity rise: online journalists/political commentators whose reach goes beyond borders with an enthusiastic following such as Eyal Kleinkellerman (@klienhaus); social media influencers who threaten traditional mainstream advertising through sheer numbers Taimoor Salahuddin (@thetaimoor), comedians whose humor knows no boundaries Erez Tal (@TalErek); bloggers who echo untold stories on diverse topics Liran Cohen (@michlipc); photographers/artists gathering worldwide attention Yael Ravia Rinot (@yaelraviaronit).
Tel Aviv has only grown its global influence by fostering people who can express different perspectives on contemporary matters often highlighted globally by these influencers-at-large effectively putting emphasis on today’s prominent issues around Israel.