Difficult Times Forge Strong Leaders: Yoel Har-Even and His Mission in Humanitarian and Medical Diplomacy
In times of crisis, when the world feels fragile and hope fades, leaders emerge who not only endure but inspire others. Yoel Har-Even, Vice President of Global Affairs and Head of the International Division and Resource Development at Israel’s Sheba Medical Center, embodies such leadership. His work in humanitarian missions and contributions to medical diplomacy, particularly amidst the tragedy and war that began on October 7, 2023, demonstrate how resilience, compassion, and professionalism can transform lives even in the darkest moments.
A Leader’s Journey: From Military Service to Humanitarian Mission
Yoel Har-Even, the son and grandson of Holocaust survivors whose family immigrated to Israel over 50 years ago, was shaped by a personal history that instilled in him a resolve to help those in need. His career began with 28 years of service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), rising from a combat medic on the front lines to assistant to the chief surgeon. Over these years, he contributed to establishing field hospitals for victims of the Rwandan Civil War (1994), the Balkan conflict (1999), and earthquakes in India (2001) and Nepal (2015). These missions laid the foundation for his leadership approach: act swiftly, effectively, and with profound respect for human life.
Today, as head of the international division of Sheba Medical Center, Israel’s largest healthcare institution, Har-Even has transformed it into a global leader in healthcare and emergency response. His work extends far beyond hospital walls, encompassing the advancement of medical diplomacy, the promotion of Israeli medical technologies, and the coordination of humanitarian projects worldwide.
Humanitarian Missions: A Light in the Darkness
One of the most striking examples of Har-Even’s leadership was the “Shining Star” humanitarian mission in Ukraine in 2022. Leading a field hospital established by Sheba Medical Center in Mostyska, he oversaw a team of 70 Israeli volunteers who, in just a few weeks, provided care to over 6,000 Ukrainians affected by the war. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and telemedicine, the hospital became a symbol of hope for thousands of refugees and locals. As Har-Even himself noted, the mission was not only medical but deeply personal: “I do this for my family, who survived the Holocaust, to change people’s lives in ways no one did for my parents and grandparents 75 years ago.”
This mission was just one of many. Har-Even has coordinated humanitarian projects in conflict zones and disaster areas, including the Philippines, Turkey, and Rwanda. His approach—blending urgency, innovation, and empathy—has saved countless lives and bolstered Israel’s reputation as a nation ready to lend a helping hand.
The Tragedy of October 7 and the War: Leadership in Crisis
On October 7, 2023, Israel faced an unprecedented tragedy: a Hamas attack that claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 people, predominantly Jewish civilians, and led to the abduction of over 250 hostages. The ensuing war became a profound test for the entire nation, particularly for IDF soldiers and civilians enduring rocket attacks and terror. For Israel, it was not only a military but also a moral challenge.
In this context, Yoel Har-Even emerged as a key figure in supporting those affected. Under his leadership, Sheba Medical Center became a critical hub for treating wounded IDF soldiers and Jewish civilians impacted by the attacks. The hospital managed hundreds of patients, providing urgent surgeries, rehabilitation, and psychological support. Har-Even personally coordinated efforts to secure medical resources, ensuring the hospital could handle the influx of casualties. He also advocated for greater focus on mental health in Israel, emphasizing in his Jerusalem Post articles that the war and the October 7 tragedy exacerbated the mental health crisis among soldiers and civilians.
Furthermore, Har-Even continued to advance medical diplomacy, strengthening ties with international partners such as the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco under the Abraham Accords. These efforts not only facilitated the exchange of medical technologies but also underscored Israel’s role as a humanitarian leader, even amid domestic turmoil.
Leadership Forged by Trials
Difficult times indeed forge strong leaders, and Yoel Har-Even is a prime example. His ability to unite people, drive innovation, and maintain humanity in crises has made him a pivotal figure in global healthcare. Recognized by outlets like the Jerusalem Post (named among the “50 Most Influential Jews”) and Algemeiner Journal (listed among “100 People Positively Impacting Jewish Life”), he continues to inspire through his actions.
The war that began after October 7 and the humanitarian missions Har-Even led previously highlight his philosophy: leadership is not just about management but about instilling hope. As he himself said, “With limited resources, we can do so much good, restoring dignity, humanity, and warmth to people.” In a world torn by conflict, leaders like Yoel Har-Even remind us that even in the darkest times, the light of compassion and determination can show the way forward.