Hibba: The Israeli Heritage Movement was founded in 1982 by Eliyahu Gabbay and is currently chaired by Yonah Betzaleli. 

Since its founding, Hibba has been a leader in strengthening Jewish identity through educational, social and cultural programming.  Hibba has been a Birthright provider since 2002 and has brought thousands of young Jews to Israel.  The Hibba Center, located in the heart of Jerusalem, will be the hub of Hibba's extended programming, which will touch Jews of all ages around the world. 

Eliyahu Gabbay, Hibba Founder:  Eliyahu Gabbay has dedicated over thirty years of his life to education in Israel - first as a teacher and school principal and then as chair of the Jerusalem Municipal Education Committee.  Mr. Gabbay served as a member of Knesset from 1998-1999 and 2006-2009.  Born in Baghdad in 1943, Mr. Gabbay made aliyah with his family at the age of 8.  Mr. Gabbay founded Hibba out of the desire to strengthen the ties between Jews and their shared heritage.

Yonah Betzaleli, Hibba Chair: Yonah Betzaleli has worked for the Jewish Agency for over fifty years, specializing in youth aliyah from around the world.  Mr. Betzaleli is also a member of the World Zionist Organization.  Born in Syria, Yonah Betzaleli immigrated illegally to pre-State Israel.  He is committed to strengthening the Jewish identity of young people and their connection to Israel.  Mr. Betzaleli has been chair of Hibba since 2009.