Russell Wolkind is JDC's Director of Planning and Partnerships in Europe, as well as Africa & Asia.  Born and raised in London, Russell decided to make Aliya after working as national director of a UK-based Zionist youth movement.  He has worked at JDC for almost 16 years, first in the International Relations Department before beginning his current position.  Russell lives with his wife Julia and two children in Modi'in, in central Israel.