Speaking at The Jerusalem Post 2026 New York Conference, entrepreneur and business mentor Roi Danino shared a raw, powerful look into resilience during the "Leading Through Uncertainty" panel. Reflecting on his personal journey through business collapse and serving 400 days of reserve duty in Gaza, Danino highlighted the immense emotional and operational pressures currently carried by Israeli small business owners.
"The financial loss was difficult, but the emotional breaking point was the feeling that I had disappointed the people who believed in me," Danino shared, noting that a leader's first thoughts during a crisis shift away from headlines or finances toward people. He described the late nights where entrepreneurs feel completely powerless, but also emphasized that while success builds confidence, it is failure that ultimately reveals a leader's true character.
To prevent such collapses, Danino argued that leaders must prioritize operational control over rapid expansion. "I don’t believe in building fast at any cost," he stated. "I believe in building responsibly so the structure can survive deep uncertainty."
Danino's perspective shifted significantly during his 400-day deployment in Gaza, where he witnessed fellow entrepreneurial soldiers fighting a dual battle. He recalled meeting business owners who were operating in high-stakes combat by day, only to spend their nights on their phones trying to manage debts and save their livelihoods. This experience made him realize how many leaders carry enormous pressure in total silence, even as entire families and communities depend on their survival. True leadership, he noted, is tested when you must provide stability for others while struggling yourself.
Danino concluded with a vital message for Israeli entrepreneurs, noting that asking for help and slowing down to rebuild correctly are not signs of weakness. Sometimes, he noted, leaders simply need someone who can look them in the eye and say, "I’ve been where you are, I know how heavy it feels, and it is possible to rebuild."
Written in collaboration with Roi Danino