Civil Society
Understanding the demographic makeup of Israeli society and its public discourse allows students to see Israel beyond stereotypes and rigid ideologies.
Rainbow Tours TLV
Activity description:
During this two-hour rainbow walking tour of the White City you’ll discover why Tel Aviv is the LGBTQ capital of the Middle East, hear what it’s like to be gay and Jewish, learn some queer Hebrew slang, and discuss current topics impacting the community. You’ll visit some of Tel Aviv's historical and modern pink spots, learn about leaders in Tel Aviv's LGBTQ movement, and see what a same-sex Israeli family's life is like.
Rainbow Tour TLV tells the story of Israel’s vibrant LGBTQ community in Tel Aviv, and uncovers the secrets of the largest LGBTQ community in Israel. Rainbow Tours TLV strives to promote empowering conversation in and out of the LGBTQ+ community and expose participants to the rich and colorful history of the queer community in Tel Aviv. Through meeting community members, participants learn about the diversity in Israeli society and engage in important conversations around identity, social justice, and acceptance. All tours are guided by LGBTQ guides and a significant portion of the tour income is donated to various community organizations.
Low
Tel Aviv
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The Orchard of Abraham's Children
Activity description:
Take part in a heartwarming visit to the bilingual kindergarten in Jaffa, meet Jewish and Arab educators, and learn about the challenges they face in their quest for normalcy in a complex reality.
The Orchard of Abraham’s Children nonprofit was born out of an exceptional love story between Ihab, a Muslim Arab from Jaffa, and Ora, a Jewish Israeli from the Galilee. When their first son, Nur, was born they established this unique multicultural kindergarten for Jewish, Christian, and Muslim children that reflects their interfaith lifestyle and love and acceptance for all religions and cultures in the Holy Land. Over time, the parent community around the kindergarten grew, and they established the Human First Education Center, a community center that offers multicultural human interactions and empowerment activities through workshops, lectures, art courses, spiritual teaching, and religion sessions.
Low
Tel Aviv / Center
Shared Path
Activity description:
Stroll the streets of Arab Israeli villages and towns and get an in-depth look at the life of residents. Meet local residents and discuss their everyday lives, hopes, dreams, and challenges.
Social tourism brings people, cultures, and narratives together to create social and economic change. Shared Path promotes social tourism in Arab communities in Israel, offering a variety of physical and virtual tours, activities, and meetings in Arab towns throughout the country. The tours and activities are designed to create a personal, meaningful, and equal introduction to Arab society. All activities are led by local guides who provide a firsthand glimpse into daily life in the community in the past and present as well as their hopes for the future.
Medium
Center / North
Mavrhatey
Activity description:
Visit a traditional Ethiopian “gojo” built out of mud and straw, experience community traditions and hear the story of the Ethiopian Jewish community from Yonie Skiba in this unforgettable experience.
Approximately 155,300 Ethiopian immigrants live in Israel today. When they arrived in Israel, most had no formal education and experienced deep and ongoing culture shock. Yonie Skiba, a Jewish Israeli Ethiopian activist who immigrated to Israel in a harrowing two-year journey as a young child, established Mavrhatey, which means "my light”, following her personal experiences of discrimination and protest. Through this initiative, Skiba, who currently works in group guidance, psychodrama, and teaching, hopes to bring people closer to the social tapestry of Israel by hosting groups in the Jewish Ethiopian tradition and values.
Medium
North
Desert Daughter
Activity description:
Meet with Mariam Abu Rakik for an empowering conversation about her life, her choices, and the business she founded against all odds. Learn about Bedouin society and about the role of women in it, and about an inspiring young woman trying to find her own path.
Born to a traditional Bedouin family in the village of Tel Sheva in the Negev, as a young adult Mariam Abu Rakik traveled to England to earn her bachelor’s degree. While there, she noticed people’s growing awareness of the importance of natural healing while at home, her community was forgoing its natural lifestyle and losing its holistic view of the world. When she returned to her village, she took up her ancestors’ traditions and combined them with formal studies of medicinal herbs at a local college. Over the next several years, she developed a small business from a household workshop, maintaining ancient traditions and enhancing them with innovations and natural production processes to create a unique line of ointments and cosmetic products. Her products are all based on black cumin and atriplex oil renowned for their healing properties, as well as other organic desert herbs and natural oils.
Other
South
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Hinam Center for Social Tolerance
Activity description:
Visit the Hinam Center for Social Tolerance, and participate in a textual study with a scholar, or take a tour of the village of Abu Gosh and visit a local church and mosque. Lunch, dinner, or a Dabke dance workshop are also available.
The Hinam Center, situated near Jerusalem in the Arab village Abu Ghosh, works to reduce polarization and alienation by creating meaningful bonds between members of the various sectors and cultures in Israeli society. All programs are designed to bring people together with deep consideration and sensitivity to each culture and its characteristics and strive to create in-depth and direct acquaintance with the “other” in a natural environment, emphasizing commonalities without ignoring or fearing differences.
Medium
Jerusalem
Einat Wilf
Activity description:
Engage in conversation with Dr. Einat Wilf about the challenges of Israeli society and how they are reflected in its political system and structure.
Dr. Einat Wilf is a leading intellectual and original thinker on matters of foreign policy, economics, education, and Israel and the Jewish people and her opinion articles are regularly published in international publications. A member of the Israeli Parliament from 2010-2013 on behalf of the Labor and Independence parties, Dr. Wilf has a BA in Government and Fine Arts from Harvard University, an MBA from INSEAD in France, and a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Cambridge. Born and raised in Israel, Dr. Wilf served as an Intelligence Officer in the Israel Defense Forces. She is the author of six books that explore key issues in Israeli society including “It’s NOT the Electoral System, Stupid” (published in Hebrew); “Winning the War of Words”, which compiles her key essays on Israel and Zionism; “Telling Our Story”—a collection of Wilf’s essays on Israel, Zionism and the path to peace; and “The War of Return” on the perpetuation of the Palestinian refugee issue (published in Hebrew).
Other
Center
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Nivcharot - Esty Bitton-Shoshan
Activity description:
Meet with Esty Bitton-Shoshan and discuss the role and position of women in Haredi society and in politics in particular.
Esty Bitton-Shoshan is a social activist, entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of Nivcharot—ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Women for Voice and Equality. As a journalist writing for the Haredi press, she used a male pseudonym after being told that “it was the only way anyone would take her writing seriously”. In 2012, she launched the social media-based protest movement “No Voice, No Vote”, calling on ultra-Orthodox women not to vote for parties that barred women from their ranks. This movement formed the base for Nivcharot, which raises awareness of issues of Haredi women’s rights and promotes equal representation of women in Haredi society and politics through leadership courses, social media, and advocacy. Bitton-Shoshan is active in social media, managing several open and closed Facebook groups that enable an honest exchange of views on subjects such as divorce, birth control, sexual harassment and abuse, arranged marriages, and other topics that are taboo in the Haredi world. She lectures widely on issues pertaining to Haredi women and society and in 2015, told the story of Nivcharot in a TED talk in Jerusalem.
High
Jerusalem
Fay Sukenik
Activity description:
Feminism in black and white: Learn about the lives of women in the ultra-Orthodox community that includes Fay’s personal story as well as her insights on the status of women and their aspirations within this traditional segment of Israeli society.
Feminism in the ultra-Orthodox community in Israel is a complex and multifaceted issue. On the one hand, there are ultra-Orthodox feminists advocating for greater rights and equality for women within their community, including access to education and leadership roles. Others argue that feminism is incompatible with traditional ultra-Orthodox values and beliefs. Fainy is the chairperson and founder of "Ba’asher Telchi"—an organization that provides support for ultra-Orthodox and religious women during divorce and separation—and the partnerships manager of "Drawing the Lines," a collective impact initiative. She is also fellow in the Young Leadership Program of the World Economic Forum in Davos and a member of the founding team of the "Feminist Emergency" collective in Israel. She has received numerous awards and prizes in recognition of her dedication and impact in the fields of education, feminism, and social justice, including being chosen to light a torch at the Israeli National Independence Day Ceremony in 2016. Fainy has also served as a teacher, educational consultant, and counselor, working with diverse communities and organizations to make a positive impact.
High
Jerusalem / Netanya
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Muslala
Activity description:
Experience Muslala, an environmental endeavor in the heart of Jerusalem, in a visit to the Terrace—a space that connects art, environmental awareness, and sustainable thinking. Tour this unique green roof, a space for research, and a creative play space for public use in art, sustainability, and community. Meet with members of Muslala for a conversation about Jerusalem’s unique social and environmental challenges.
Muslala is a non-profit established in 2009 by artists, residents, and community activists of the Musrara neighborhood in Jerusalem that strives to create a new model for artistic activity with a social orientation. Most of the activities take place outdoors in the public realm and have a widespread impact that extends beyond East and West Jerusalem. Muslala currently has five projects in Jerusalem including The Terrace, a unique green roof on the Clal building; the Food Rescuers, who are tackling Jerusalem’s poverty and nutrition challenges by saving produce surplus at the wholesale market; the Sinsila Community Center in East Jerusalem; the Workshop, a community carpentry shop; and the Roof Organization, founded to create rooftop culture in Jerusalem.
Low
Jerusalem
Sivan Yaari - Innovation Africa
Activity description:
Experience a unique encounter with Sivan Yaari, a trailblazer dedicated to creating a lasting impact in rural Africa. In her talk, Sivan will delve into the transformative work of Innovation: Africa, a nonprofit that is redefining what’s possible for communities without access to clean water and electricity. Through captivating stories and real-world examples, Sivan will reveal how cutting-edge Israeli solar and water technologies have brought light, hope, and opportunity to millions. Learn about the challenges her team has overcome, the lives that have been changed, and the powerful partnerships that have made this mission a success. Take advantage of this chance to be inspired by a leader whose innovative approach proves that small actions can create a ripple effect of change.
Sivan Yaari is the founder and CEO of Innovation: Africa, a non-profit organization bringing Israeli solar, agricultural, and water technologies to African villages. Born in Israel and raised in France, she pursued her education in the United States, earning a degree in Finance from Pace University and a Master’s in International Energy Management and Policy from Columbia University. With over 20 years of experience working in Africa, Sivan has spent the past 15 years leading efforts to provide clean water and light to more than 4 million people across 10 African countries. Innovation: Africa, under her leadership, has held Special Consultative Status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council since 2012 and has received numerous awards, including the United Nations Innovation Award. Sivan’s accolades include being named one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world by the Jerusalem Post and lighting the torch at Israel’s 75th Independence Day ceremony. She has also been recognized as one of Israel’s 50 Most Influential Women by Forbes. Sivan lives in Tel Aviv with her husband and three children, continuing her impactful work across Africa.
Low
Tel Aviv
Nimrod Gorenstein
Activity description:
Be inspired by Nimrod Gornstein’s Profound Insights on Israeli Society and Law. His engaging lectures blend storytelling with historical and current analysis, offering a deep dive into the complexities of Israeli society, law, and politics. His dynamic presentations bring clarity to challenging topics, sparking thought-provoking discussions for all audiences. Nimrod introduces the Israeli legal-political framework, exploring its state-religion constitutional history and evolving challenges. He also highlights the ongoing struggles of the Israeli LGBTQ community, comparing its legal and political framework to global counterparts and examining activism in the face of political unrest. His discussions on discrimination uncover the experiences of marginalized groups, including Arabs, women, LGBTQ individuals, Mizrahi, Ethiopian, and Haredi Jews. With a focus on legislation, politics, and history, Nimrod’s lectures offer a transformative perspective, leaving audiences inspired to engage with critical social issues.
Nimrod Gornstein is a civil rights lawyer and board member of the Israeli "Aguda," the leading NGO advocating for LGBTQ rights in Israel. He leads a pro-bono legal clinic at the Israeli College for Management, teaching law students civil rights litigation and policymaking. Previously, he facilitated the creation of a pioneering governmental unit for LGBTQ promotion at the Ministry for Social Equality, executing large-scale projects across 70 municipalities and advising on legislation and Holocaust survivors' social and legal issues. Nimrod also served as a Knesset advisor, headed the legal department of the "Aguda," and represented the organization in a landmark lawsuit addressing religious-based discrimination. He is currently researching this topic at Tel Aviv University, where he is completing his thesis. He holds an LLB in Law and a BA in General History (summa cum laude) from Tel Aviv University. Nimrod resides in Tel Aviv with his partner Adam and their son Jeremy, contributing to LGBTQ strategic planning amidst Israel's social and legal challenges.
Medium
Jerusalem / Tel Aviv / Center
Ibrahim Abu Ahmed
Activity description:
Join an engaging and thought-provoking talk with Ibrahim Abu Ahmed, a passionate activist and expert in geopolitical issues, as he explores the challenges faced by Arab citizens of Israel. Drawing on his extensive knowledge and personal experiences, Ibrahim will provide a nuanced perspective on the complex realities of identity, integration, and inequality within Israeli society. Explore the complex and often conflicting identities of Ibrahim and his community as they navigate the intricate challenges of being Palestinian Arabs in a Jewish state.This session offers a rare opportunity to gain deeper insights into the socio-political dynamics shaping the Arab community in Israel, with reflections on broader regional influences.
Ibrahim Abu Ahmed is an Arab-Palestinian-Israeli activist, geopolitical speaker, and writer. He is the co-creator and co-host of the podcast Unapologetic – The Third Narrative. His expertise spans a range of regional issues, including the challenges facing the Arab community in Israel, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, developments in Syria and Lebanon, and Iran's role in the region. Ibrahim holds a master’s degree in National Security Studies and a bachelor’s degree in International Relations, with studies completed at the American University in Cairo, James Madison University, and Haifa University. Born and raised in Nazareth, he now resides in Central Israel, where he continues his work as a speaker and advocate for dialogue.
Medium
Center / Haifa
Mohammad Darawshe
Activity description:
Join an exclusive conversation with one of Israel’s foremost leaders in the realm of shared society, Mohammad Darawshe, for an illuminating discussion on the past, present, and future of Israeli-Arab relations. As an expert on Jewish-Arab dynamics in Israel, Darawshe will delve into the evolving civic and national identities of Arab citizens, tracing the journey from coexistence to a truly integrated shared society. This is an eye-opening opportunity to gain insight from a visionary deeply involved in shaping Israel's future.
Mohammad Darawshe is the Director of Strategy at the Givat Haviva center for shared society and the former Co-Director of The Abraham Initiatives. He previously served as the Elections Campaign Manager for the Democratic Arab Party and later for The United Arab List.
An expert on Jewish-Arab relations, Darawshe has lectured at institutions such as the European Parliament, NATO Defense College, US congress, and the World Economic Forum. His work has been recognized with the Peacemakers Award from the Catholic Theological Union and the Peace and Security Award from the World Association of NGOs. He was also a Leadership Fellow of the New Israel Fund. In 2009, he contributed to drafting Israel's Coexistence Education policy and has served in various national strategic roles.
Darawshe holds a Master’s Degree in Peace and Conflict Management from Haifa University and a BA in Social and Political Science from Emek Yizrael College. He resides in Iksal with his wife and four children.
Medium
North / South / Center / Jerusalem
The Desert Stars
Activity description:
Experience the rich culture and leadership of the Negev’s Bedouin community. Immerse yourself in a unique journey into the heart of Bedouin culture and leadership transformation with Desert Stars. Choose from various activities, including a traditional tent experience with authentic hospitality, cultural workshops, and inspiring discussions with Bedouin changemakers. Explore the challenges and triumphs of this evolving society through guided tours, hands-on workshops like pita baking and embroidery, and fascinating lectures on leadership, identity, and progress. These activities offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing how Desert Stars fosters meaningful change in the Negev and beyond.
Desert Stars is an Israeli non-profit organization committed to cultivating a new generation of Bedouin leaders in the Negev. Founded in 2013, it unites mission-driven youth across tribal lines, empowering them to drive meaningful change within their communities and Israeli society. The organization offers comprehensive programs such as the Forsan Al Sahra Youth Movement, Leadership High School, and Women’s Leadership initiatives, providing education, leadership training, and personal development. By addressing socio-economic and educational disparities, Desert Stars fosters inclusion and coexistence while honoring Bedouin values and traditions. Desert Stars envisions a thriving, united Negev led by a strong Bedouin community equipped to navigate modern challenges. Recognized as a transformative force for change, it continues to inspire and empower a new generation of leaders dedicated to creating a more inclusive future.
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Noor Ferro-Zaheraldeen
Activity description:
Druze communities are a traditional society where women are still struggling for integration in Israeli society, but where young men are serving in the IDF. As a minority in Israel, the Druze are striving for recognition while losing men in Israel's wars. A Druze woman, Noor has an unwavering commitment to drive positive change by leveraging her expertise, particularly in empowering underrepresented communities. Join Noor for an honest conversation about the Druze, where she will open a window to Druze life and traditions, discuss her struggle to bridge gaps for the Arab community in Israel and share the story of Arab and Druze integration in the tech industry. You can also join Noor on a thought-provoking and enriching tour of her village, visit the memorial house of Druze soldiers fallen in Israel’s wars (Yad Lebanim), meet with a Druze entrepreneur, visit a local artist, or enjoy a traditional Druze meal.
Noor Ferro-Zaheraldeen is living in the Druze village Dalyat Al Carmel, near Haifa. She is the founder and owner of two initiatives: JobLee, a Tech Recruitment and HR Service company with a focus on the northern district of Israel, and Bayanat-Up, a market research company with a focus on the Arab business ecosystem in Israel. Noor worked at Intel and was a researcher at the Milken Institute. She holds a BA in statistics from Haifa University and an EMBA from Tel Aviv University.
Medium
North
The Food Rescuers
Activity description:
Visiting the Food Rescuers, a Jerusalem-based grassroots sustainability organization, is a unique opportunity to learn about food security in Jerusalem while joining a cooking session, a food fermentation and preservation workshop, or enjoying a full meal, all using market surplus products. You can also donate the outcome of your food preservation workshop to local families in need.
Since its establishment in 2019, the Food Rescuers has been working to promote a sustainable and community-oriented food system in Jerusalem. They are located in the heart of the wholesale market, where the majority of fruits and vegetables destined for markets, vendors, shops, and institutions in the city arrive. The organization tackles the issue of approximately 15 tons of surplus and edible produce being discarded daily. Through the collaborative efforts of their dedicated community of volunteers and various cross-sector partnerships, they are actively engaged in reducing food waste by establishing an urban food rescue system.
Medium
Jerusalem
