Sweet Connections: Bridging Ecuador and Israel Through Chocolate and Innovation

The Center for Jewish Impact and the Embassy of Ecuador in Israel hosted a unique Diplomatic Salon celebrating the power of chocolate to connect nations, inspire innovation, and foster sustainability.

The evening featured a panel discussion with Dr. Ellen Graber, Chief Scientist at the Cocoa Cure Center of the Volcani Institute; Michal Beressi Golomb, CEO of Celleste Bio, and Michel Kammoun, Founder and CEO of KAMM Chocolate in Ecuador. The conversation was moderated by Valeria Kogan, a Fellow at the Center for Jewish Impact, who guided the discussion on how chocolate, agriculture, biotechnology, and innovation are shaping the future of the industry.

Special remarks were delivered by Amb. Amir Ofek, Deputy Director General for Latin America and the Caribbean Affairs at Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighting the growing ties between Israel and Ecuador.

A special highlight of the evening was a guided tasting led by Ward Mohanna, representing Dvir Chocolate. Through the tasting, Ward shared the moving story of Dvir Karp, who was killed on October 7th, and led the audience into an experience honoring his flavors and legacy.

Lastly, guests were invited to discover an exclusive Chocolate Expo, featuring over 15 chocolate brands from Israel and Ecuador. From fine Ecuadorian cacao to bold Israeli innovations, the expo showcased the rich possibilities that emerge when tradition and creativity meet.