IZZY and IsraeliBox are partnering to bring you the magic of Israel, delivered straight to your doorstep!
IsraeliBox was founded by Maya Balaban, an Israeli-born-and-raised entrepreneur who made it her mission to bring Israel closer to everyone around the world, to tell the story of Israel and Israelis who live and love our country.
“Our dream is to let the stories, creations, scents, and flavors of Israel, as unique and unforgettable as Israel itself, tell the story of Israel.”
We caught up with Maya to learn more about her and IsraeliBox!
IZZY: Where did the idea for IsraeliBox come from?
Maya Balaban: For many years I worked as a marketing manager for large and well-known companies in Israel. But I have always had a dream of starting my own business that incorporates values and ideology to which I connect.
When I left the last position I became very interested in the world of e-commerce, and as I started to study it in-depth, I was exposed to the whole world of subscription boxes, and I fell in love with the field and the concept.
When I tried to think of what I could bring to the world “by surprise” every month that they could not get anywhere else, it was clear to me that Israel was the answer. I grew up in a very Zionist home, and today I raise my children in the same way. Israel is very dear to my heart — and I won because I was able to combine my two great loves and make them my daily work.
IZZY: What makes IsraeliBox different from other types of subscription boxes?
Maya: IsraeliBox brings people Israel through the lens of Israelis, a box of surprise outside of politics, outside of the media. The idea is simply to enjoy what Israel has to offer, and get to know creative Israeli businesses at the same time.
In addition, one of the important goals I set for myself is to support a different organization in our country each month. In Israel, community is a very significant thing, and we will always do something for others and try to help as much as we can. IsraeliBox tries to do our best for others who need it, for populations that are not always seen, and who want to live with dignity in the country. This does not exist in other subscription boxes.
IZZY: What’s one thing most people don’t realize about IsraeliBox?
Maya: IsraeliBox is much more than a box, and its products. The monthly subscribers get to know Israel not in an informal or touristy way, but in an experiential way that is full of content.
Suddenly, after several months of subscribing you will see how your house fills up with Israel, you will cook with Israeli spices, in every corner there will be something that will reminds you of Israel, the tastes, smells, the beauty of the Israeli artwork that hangs on the walls. It is a wonderful way to pass on tradition, heritage, and roots to future generations — through experience.
IZZY: What is your vision for IsraeliBox?
Maya: My dream is to succeed in creating a change of perception regarding Israel, to succeed in bringing Israel to people’s homes around the world, even to those who do not know Israel that well, and to make them really get to know Israel. Outside of Israel’s conflicts and problems, I want people get to know all the good and beauty that is here. And there is lots!
In the modern age, where young Jews are reading less, and less connected to their roots and tradition, I believe that speaking “in their language” and through their favorite mode of consumption, through a monthly surprise box, can create a real connection between young people and Israel. And make them fall in love again with their homeland.
Check out the limited edition IZZY-IsraeliBox!
