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As the Director of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF), San Diego & Orange County Chapters, Brian Blacher takes the reigns during one of the most difficult times for Jews since the Holocaust.
In 1994, Brian Blacher migrated on his own from South Africa where his family still resides today. Over the last 3 decades, he spent his career successfully launching and growing start-ups in the health and wellness industry. As a certified trainer and nutritionist, co-author of the Eatwize Nutrition Program, and graduate with a degree in physical education with a major in exercise physiology and economics, he combines his passion for health and fitness with his business acumen to create businesses, programs, and facilities that motivate people to consciously engage in healthier lifestyle practices.
With antisemitism on the rise in the United States, Blacher shifted gears and changed his focus. Along with Dr. Eli Ben-Moshe, Brian co-founded Shields of David in 2018. Their mission is to make sure the next generation of Jews feel strong and proud of their identity. The Shields of David program provides factual history on the birth of Israel and Jewish perseverance. Students learn to act against bigotry and antisemitism with knowledge and self-defense courses. Shields of David’s vision is for future generations to be fearless and empowered by their Jewish identity.
“Our aim was to educate and support our Jewish youth to stand up and be proud Jews. We noticed the rise of Anti Semitism on the college campuses in 2017. Many people around us said we were overreacting!” said Blacher.
A true Zionist, Blacher’s passion for Israel is unwavering. In August 2024, he took on a new role as Associate Director of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, San Diego & Orange County Chapters. Two months later, he was thrust into action as a result of the atrocities of October 7. Blacher worked tirelessly around the clock with his team to ensure that the soldiers of the IDF were supported during this difficult time. His leadership and commitment to the soldiers have brought the San Diego Chapter to new heights. Recently, Blacher was named Director of FIDF San Diego & Orange Counties, where he continues to lead the chapter ensuring the our beloved soldiers are receiving the support they need.
“Our soldiers are fighting on the frontlines daily to protect Israel, but also the Jews in the Diaspora. We owe it to them to have their backs because their job is to protect Israel. Ours is to protect them!” he says.
The FIDF Solidarity Gala dinner will be held on Sunday, November 10. This year the program will honor Marilyn & Stanley Smiedt z’l, who have not only steadfastly supported Israel and her soldiers, but the San Diego community as well. Learn more at www.fidf.org/events/sdgala24.
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