Masha Merkulova is the Founder and Executive Director of Club Z, an organization dedicated to educating American Jewish teens about Zionism, Jewish history, and their connection to Israel. Born in the former Soviet Union, Merkulova discovered her Jewish heritage later in life, which inspired her to embrace Zionism and advocate for Jewish causes. Prior to founding Club Z in 2011, she spent over a decade as a Jewish community activist in the San Francisco Bay Area, focusing on combating antisemitism and supporting Israel.

Under her leadership, Club Z has grown into a national network that empowers teens to become articulate advocates for Israel and the Jewish people. Merkulova is a prominent voice in the media, with her op-eds featured in outlets such as FOX News and the Jewish News Syndicate. She has also spoken at numerous high-profile events, including the Jewish National Fund-USA’s Conversations on Zionism and the BBYO International Convention.

Her appearance on the "Focus on Israel" episode highlights her commitment to fostering a strong, informed generation of Jewish leaders who are prepared to address contemporary challenges facing Israel and the Jewish community