Israeli Designer Who Once Volunteered for Magen David Adom Gives Back in Style

Renowned designer and former MDA volunteer Kobi Halperin, whose signature Flower of Hope was featured throughout the evening.

Palm Beach, FL—  Internationally acclaimed Israeli fashion designer Kobi Halperin, who once served as a volunteer medic for Magen David Adom (MDA), has found a powerful new way to support Israel’s national emergency medical service through fashion.

At the American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA) Palm Beach Gala, held at The Breakers Hotel on Thursday, April 3, 2025, Halperin used his fashion platform to highlight the work of Israel’s only national emergency medical service.

He styled several of the evening’s distinguished participants, weaving his yellow sequined Flower of Hope into their attire. Worn by speakers, committee members, and donors, the elegant emblem served as a powerful symbol of remembrance, honoring the victims of the October 7 Hamas attacks and paying tribute to the Magen David Adom first responders who risked, and in some cases lost, their lives in the line of duty.

A second-generation Holocaust survivor, Halperin has long spoken about how inherited memory and identity have shaped his artistic voice. His years volunteering for MDA, treating patients on the front lines of emergencies, deeply informed his values. For Halperin, contributing to the gala wasn’t just about giving back. It was about honoring the selfless heroes who embodied everything he stands for.

“It was powerful to see community, philanthropy, music, art, and fashion come together to make an impact. With Kobi’s meaningful contribution and the generosity of this incredible community, we raised $4 million that will go directly toward saving lives in Israel,” said Tamara Karu, AFMDA Southeast Regional Director and National Director of Strategic Philanthropy. “That kind of support ensures Magen David Adom’s medics are adequately equipped to answer the call of duty in the most trying of times.”

The evening brought together notable leaders, including gala honorees Jane and Mark Wilf, President and Owner of the Minnesota Vikings; keynote speaker and Fauda creator Lior Raz; and performer and activist Montana Tucker. Yvel Jewelers added elegance by providing breathtaking one-of-a-kind pieces to honorees and event chairs.Halperin and Yvel’s participation and support echoed the night’s themes: resilience, remembrance, and unity.

More than 600 people attended the gala, which raised $4 million to support MDA’s operations. The funds raised highlight Palm Beach’s commitment to the Jewish community. They will be used to equip MDA’s first responders with ambulances, cutting-edge medical tools, and the resources they need to confront Israel’s most harrowing moments.

The heroism and stories of MDA volunteers were central to the evening’s message, exemplified by Zvi Reder, an MDA paramedic from Kibbutz Sa’ad. As rockets fell and terrorists infiltrated the south, Reder activated his kibbutz’s emergency team and began treating victims by 7 a.m., even as wounded festivalgoers from Nova poured through the gates. Under constant gunfire, he transported the injured to safety, all while fearing the worst for his son Dor, who was missing.

Later that day, a terrorist answered Dor’s phone. Nine agonizing days later, Zvi and his family learned that Dor and his girlfriend, Celeste, had been murdered in Kibbutz Be’eri, where they had recently moved to help children with special needs.

For Halperin, the event was a way to reconnect with his roots and contribute to the cause in a way that reflected his personal journey, from first responder to internationally recognized designer, shaped by memory, service, and a deep commitment to the future of the Jewish people.

Lior Raz, keynote speaker and creator of Fauda with actress and activitist Montana Tucker

MDA Medic Zvi Reder (Right) lost his son on Oct 7th while he was leading the emergency response to rescue wounded civilians.  

Honorees Jane and Mark Wilf, Owner and President of the Minnesota Vikings

Over 600 AFMDA supporters gathered at the historic Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida. 

About American Friends of Magen David Adom

American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA) is the U.S.-based fundraising arm of Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical service. AFMDA helps ensure that MDA’s 37,500 paramedics, EMTs, first responders, and volunteers have the training, equipment, and vehicles needed to save lives in Israel and around the world. For more information, visit www.afmda.org.