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MY Gap Year MASA GAP YEAR PROGRAMS 2019—2020 MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 3 MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA

Participants return from Masa Israel programs invigorated, inspired and with an enhanced sense of their Jewish and Zionist identity. They display maturity, independence, and a heightened interest in our Australian Jewish community.

A study by the University of Sydney has shown that taking a structured Welcome! gap year invariably serves to develop the individual into a more focused student with a better sense of purpose and engagement in the world. They also found that taking a Gap Year had a significant positive impact on students’ academic performance at university and reflected positively on ones CV and future employment opportunities.

If the plan is to go straight to university and skip the gap year, ‘Taking a gap year’ is an Australian tradition but taking a gap year Masa Israel has amazing Gap Year Study options where you can study in Israel is a rite of passage. It is an opportunity to experience Israel in some of Israel’s top universities. For a semester or a year, you can with thousands of other Jewish school leavers from around the globe be earning valuable university credits all while enjoying the benefits of who flock to Israel for their gap year. The following pages highlight a gap year in Israel. the amazing and enriching gap year programs available through Masa Israel Journey, the umbrella organisation for all long term Masa also offers an ‘Israel by Design’ service where participants Israel programs. have the option of building their own Israel program according to their needs, wants and interests. The program can be designed for an Masa Israel Journey gap year programs are not about ‘taking a year individual or a group of friends. off’ but about having ‘a Year ON’. It is about tasting independent living, immersing yourself in Jewish and Israeli life and culture, giving back, We encourage you to take the time to browse through the pages and meeting people from around the world and learning about yourself familiarise yourself with the gap year programs on offer. With generous and others through life changing experiences. Masa Israel Journey funding for eligible participants thanks to Masa Israel Journey and represents a large range of programs which have been designed to suit affordable 5, 7, 10 or 12 month program, there is a program to suit participants wishing to explore their individual academic, adventure, everyone and anyone! Feel free to contact our dedicated Israel environmental, creative and volunteering interests. Many of these program office to discuss any of the program options in this booklet. programs bring together students from around the world to live, explore, study and volunteer in areas directly related to their interests. Sarit Braver Whether you’re into sport and fitness, music, dance, volunteering, Israel Program Office permaculture, Jewish studies or just getting to know Israel and all she Zionist Federation of encompasses then there is a program for you. Email: [email protected] Phone: 03 9572 5584 MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA

WHAT IS MASA GRANTS & ISRAEL JOURNEY? SCHOLARSHIPS MASA FUNDING SUPPORT

Masa Israel is a project of the Government of Israel and the Jewish All eligible Masa program participants receive a universal grant. Agency for Israel that connects young people with a range of Israel The grant amount is dependent on the type and length of the program experiences and opportunities. It was established in 2004 program and ranges from US$200 to US$3200. with the vision that all young Jewish adults should have the opportunity to spend a semester or a year in Israel. Masa therefore provides Masa Israel also provides means tested scholarships to eligible generous grants and needs –based scholarships to make the programs participants who may need extra financial assistance and meet the accessible and affordable for all. eligibility criteria. Today, Masa Israel Journey is the umbrella organisation for over 300 For more information on Masa Israel funding and how to apply please immersive gap year, study abroad, internship, volunteer and special contact your program representative or the ZFA Israel Program Office interest programs. Programs range from 5–12 months, with a vast on 03 9272 5584 or email [email protected] array of options catering to every interest.

The Zionist Federation of Australia (ZFA) is the federal roof body of Please note all gap year program participants must register with Masa all Zionist organisations and activity in Australia. It is responsible Israel Journey by filling out a grant application on the Masa Israel website: for developing, enriching and supporting a meaningful relationship masaisrael.org between the Australian Jewish community and the State of Israel. ZFA Israel Programs is your go-to address for all Israel programs information at the ZFA. We are the Australian representatives of Masa Israel Journey and Australian partners of Taglit – . MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA

TABLE OF GAP YEAR ON CAMPUS PROGRAM SCHEDULES 20 44 Aardvark CONTENTS 21 Bar Ilan 45 Big Idea 22 Hebrew University 46 Bina 47 Eco Israel 23 Technion 48 Israel By Choice 25 Israel By Choice 49 Israel Dance Journey 27 Israel By Design 50 Ohrsom YOUTH MOVEMENT SHNAT 29 Israel Dance Journey 51 Way More Israel 3 Limmud 11 Aardvark 31 Nitzana Desert Challenge 4 MTA 13 Big Idea 33 Mechina Kol Ami 5 Hashomer Hatzair 15 Bina 35 Ohrsom Gap Year Program 6 17 Eco Israel 37 Project Ten 7 Habonim Dror 19 Eilat Hotel 39 Tzofim Garin Tzabar 8 Hineni 41 Way More Israel

9 Netzer 42 MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 3

Bnei akiva­ Limmud

AZYC SHNAT Limmud is ’s program for those who want to taste and experience all the wonderful aspects of Israel. Chanichim who choose to spend the year on Limmud are able to live on a Kibbutz, learn in Yeshiva or Midrasha, assist in Magen David Adom from the back of ambulances and partake in Shvil Yisrael, a 10 day hike throughout various parts of the country. The participants will join a Mechina Olamit with Israel adolescents who are preparing to go into the IDF. Limmud is a once in a lifetime chance for participants to develop independence and deepen their connection to the , not through buses and touring but by engaging with the land and meeting its citizens.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 11 Months · Start month: January · Age: 17-20 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 5

Bnei akiva­ MTA Hashomer Ha’tzair

Midreshet Torah v’Avodah is an institution based program that ensures The Hashomer Hatzair shnat program is an exciting year of individual participants leave Israel with a suitcase full of Torah and knowledge. growth and self exploration. That said, Shnat is also about participating The institutions that our program is connected to provide boys and in a collective, the Shnat Kvutza (peer group), and about being part girls incredible teachers and classes throughout the year. For 2020, of a movement forum. This means that the process of independence, the yeshivot for the boys are Yeshivat Har Etzion (Gush) and Yeshivat individual growth and discovery is connected to and supported by the Eretz Hatzvi and the midrashot for the girls are Midreshet Harova and other members of the group and the madrichim (guides) of the kvutza. Midreshet Amit. All of the institutions offer something different but The program consists of four building blocks; firstly, the Hashomer share a commitment to facilitating and encouraging the growth of our Hatzair values, which come from a historical legacy and a particular participants. Aside from the learning aspect of the program, they’ll be worldview. There is also the Israel, , and Hebrew aspect. This exposed to many chesed (volunteering) opportunities as well as being program emphasises the unique nature of Israeli society, history, involved in various seminars about Israel and Bnei Akiva. language, and geography. The third aspect is Kvutza and community, as the program is synchronised such that the entire Hashomer Hatzair World Movement will be on the same program. Part of the mission of the program is to help facilitate tightly-knit, intimate, caring, thoughtful collectives of people who work to better one another and the world at large. Finally, the last building block is democratic education, an idea which permeates through the entire program. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 7

Betar Habonim Dror

Betar Shnat includes many different experiences over the course of the The Habonim Dror Shnat program is an intensive 9 month program with the first being Machon, a 3 month leadership 10-month educational leadership program in Israel. Shnat plays a program at the Machon Le Madrichim in Jerusalem. During this significant and central role in the movement, and is our greatest period, the chanichim will experience classes in Hebrew and learn source of strength and inspiration. about Jewish history. They will also embark on day trips around The program is split into a number of components. The first is Israel. Volunteering is also a large aspect of Betar’s Shnat program, Yesod, an intensive educational, social and leadership development where each year the group will volunteer at a different place in Israel program run for the first three and a half months of Shnat. It takes promoting the Betar goal of activism within the community. During this place on a Kibbutz, and aims to provide participants with a broad time the group will be communally living in an apartment together. knowledge and understanding of Jewish and Israeli history. Kaveret is the second component of the program in which participants will be living independently in houses in Israeli cities. Together with other movements and organisations shnatties will be leading in a variety of projects for youth from all sectors of society. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 9

Hineni Netzer

Hineni Shnat offers immersive and authentic experiences which allow Participants of Shnat Netzer engage in topics of Israeli history, participants to gain essential life and leadership skills. The program Israeli politics, Zionism, Progressive , leadership training combines education, volunteering, leadership training, travelling and and much more. Throughout the year, participants live, study and independent-living. The Shnat program provides an opportunity to work together to create an intentional Progressive Jewish and connect to the Jewish homeland, to learn about Jewish history, culture Reform Zionist community. Together with Netzer branches around and religion, to form friendships with other young people from Israel the world, participants learn about the relationship between and around the world, to learn Hebrew, to explore one’s own identity, communities and Israel, as well as being empowered youth who can and to challenge oneself to learn and form opinions about the issues make a change in the progressive communities inside and out of Israel. that affect Israel and the world today. Graduates of the Shnat program Living in the heart of Jerusalem, participants are joined by others are well-rounded and experienced individuals who have a unique from around the world to learn together about independent living and commitment to their community and to others. community building. They will be taught by current change-makers, activists and educators, all working to improve Israeli society. Classes will incorporate the values of Progressive Judaism and Progressive Zionism in an informal way. Engaging with the Progressive community in Haifa, the participants will integrate deeper into Israeli society as they experience social, cultural and political issues first-hand through meetings, workshops, tours and volunteering opportunities with . These Israelis work in community and social action projects across the city that improve the lives of Haifa’s residents. Living in a flat in the city and meeting up with their counterparts, Noar Telem (Israel's Reform Youth Movement), on their gap year program, the participants will gain insight into Israeli life from a new perspective. Three times a week the participants will volunteer in small groups or individually putting into action the ideology of Tikkun (repair) and their own passion for change. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 11

AARDVARK

The Aardvark Israel Program offers Jewish students from around the world the opportunity to “MAKE ISRAEL YOURS,” by providing a tailor- made program so participants can build a customised experience in Israel. The beauty of Aardvark, and what sets it apart from other programs is the opportunity to Intern. Participants choose from a long list of unique internship opportunities at impressive companies and organisations. Participants also get to explore the hidden gems of Israel through weekly trips and excursions, study fascinating topics including Hebrew and enjoy independent living in furnished apartments in the center of Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. The experienced staff and high ratio of staff to students allow Aardvark to cater to the different interests of its student population, who come from a wide range of countries and backgrounds.

Special Interest Add-Ons: · The International Program, which has educational and tourist trips to Ethiopia, , , , Czech Republic and China · Nepal Cultural Exchange Program · Trip · MADA course - including the option to volunteer on an Ambulance. PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Sea Sports · Duration: 4.5, 7, 11.5 Months · Aardvark Extreme · Start month: January or September · Career and Development track · Age: 17-21 · American Jewish Summer Camp · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Not Included

* See page 44 for schedule. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 13

big idea Hi-tech

BIG IDEA Gap Year in Israel is an in-depth program for high school graduates who seek to combine HI-TECH training and internship experience all while enjoying the benefits of a gap year in Israel. The program offers a 5 or 9-month experience in Beer Sheva & Tel Aviv. Gain direct hands on experience with top industry professionals and gain key skills to become a Programmer, Designer or App Developer. Participants also receive an official certificate as a Front-End Developer or Web Designer. This Program will boost your resume with essential high tech experience, setting you apart from the crowd and igniting your professional career. Experience an authentic Israeli experience via weekly exciting trips throughout Israel with experienced guides. Study Hebrew at Ben- Gurion University and gain college credits, and intern in leading start-ups and hi-tech companies in Be’er Sheva and Tel-Aviv. Work and live alongside like-minded people, gain significant professional and life skills for your personal development, make life- long friends and create memories that will stay with you forever. “During impact month which is part of the program we developed apps for the local science museum in order to give back to the community of Be’er Sheva. You work with your PROGRAM OVERVIEW friends on something you are passionate about and of course, · Duration: 5 or 9 Months your're working on something that is bigger than yourself” · Start month: February and September · Age: 18 —Jay Singer, 18, Melbourne, Australia · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included * See page 45 for schedule. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 15

BINA Social Action

BINA Gap Year in Tel Aviv is a life-changing 5 or 10-month experience that combines communal living with Israelis, experiential learning, hands-on volunteering, travel, and leadership training. Mechina: Our gap year participants don't live in a bubble! On BINA Gap Year, you'll be in a real Israeli Mechina (post high school, pre-army program), living, learning, travelling and volunteering together with Israelis your own age. Real Social Action: Engage in real, impactful, hands-on social action in the community where you live. Get to know the diverse populations of Tel Aviv including new immigrants and refugees. Connect your studies to real issues of social justice: poverty, environment, migration and more. Volunteering opportunities include working with children of many different ethnicities, including the large asylum seeking population from Sudan and Eritrea, with senior citizens and disabled populations in the local community centre; and leading activities in our botanical gardens for members of the local community. Experiential Learning: Explore Jewish and Israeli culture from a secular and cultural perspective with an emphasis on social justice. PROGRAM OVERVIEW Enjoy interactive courses at the BINA Secular Yeshiva in Tel Aviv, guest · Duration: 5,10 Months speakers, activities in Tel Aviv, and day tours as well as overnight · Start month: August and February trips in diverse areas of Israel, with a focus on encounters with local · Age: 18 populations. Trips range from Druze villages, to ultra-orthodox · Accommodation: Included communities, and Arab towns, as well as overnight hiking excursions · Meals: Included and weekends on kibbutzim.

* See page 46 for schedule. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 17

ECO ISRAEL

Eco-Israel offers Jewish young adults the opportunity to embrace per maculture and sustainable living through intensive hands-on experience and coursework on an organic farm. Upon completion of the program you will receive an internationally recognised certificate in permaculture design. Based at the Hava & Adam Eco-Educational farm in Modi’in (located halfway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv) Eco-Israel allows you to explore how ecology, Judaism, and Israel blend together in a working model of a self-sustaining ecological community. The Hava & Adam Eco-Educational Farm is completely dependent upon the energy, creative resources and time of its residents. All members of the farm, including a group of young Israelis on a year of service, share responsibility in running the site and making it their home. As a large family, you will cook with your fellow residents, eat together and work together.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 5 Months · Start month: February or September · Age: 18-30 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included

* See page 47 for schedule. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 19

EILAT HOTEL EXPERIENCE

The Eilat Hotel Experience will prepare you for an exciting career in the fast-paced world of the hotel and hospitality industry. Starting with an introduction to the city of Eilat, the program focuses on Hebrew and cultural studies, followed by hands-on hotel internship experience and workshops. Coursework and practical experiences include maintenance, food and beverage service, dining room, kitchen, hospitality and reception. As a participant of this program, you are expected to engage in community service and will be offered a host family with whom you can spend special Shabbat dinners and holidays. This program is heavily subsidised by the Israeli Government.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 6 Months · Start month: February, March or July · Age: 18-30 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included · US$300 per month stipend included MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 21

BAR ILAN UNIVERSITY GAP YEAR The Gap Year at Bar Ilan University is a multi-faceted experience that combines university learning with Jewish growth, seeing the land of Israel, and connecting with amazing role models. ON CAMPUS You will experience: · Stimulating university courses · Inspirational Jewish learning and growth at your own pace · Amazing trips across the Land of Israel · Uplifting Shabbatons in breathtaking locations · And a vibrant group of unforgettable rabbis, teachers and friends.

TELAVIV UNIVERSITY PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 8 Months Situated in the heart of Israel's coastal region, Tel Aviv University is the · Start month: February or October country's largest academic institution boasting a diverse and dynamic · Age: 18-30 student body. Its faculty is comprised of nationally and internationally renowned scholars and scientists, many of whom are leaders in their · Accommodation: Included fields. The program at Tel Aviv University offers students an opportunity · Meals: Included (additional price) to learn Hebrew and take courses in English for full academic credit while immersed in Israeli culture. PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 4.5 Months · Age: 18-30 · Accommodation: Not Included · Meals: Not Included MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 23

HEBREW UNIVERSITY Hebrew University offers a variety of first-year courses in the areas of Israel and Middle Eastern studies, Religion, Brain and Behavioural Technion Sciences, and Environmental Studies. The Gap Program provides a solid initiation into academic study, Undergraduate Engineering Degree and the credits earned are transferable to most universities. All students participate in the Freshman Seminar. This seminar provides first-year students with a strong foundation to assist in the transition from high school to university. It provides academic If you are planning on studying Engineering after school then look and social support while strengthening the participant’s skills in no further than the Technion. Technion is consistently ranked among academic research and writing. The seminar also affords students the world's top 50 universities and is one of the leading institutes of the opportunity to interact and form a community with fellow students science and engineering in Israel and the world. Technion International and the administration all while being immersed in Israeli culture. offers students from countries around the world an opportunity PROGRAM OVERVIEW to join Technion academic programs which are taught entirely in · Duration: 4, 8.5 Months English. Since its founding in 1912, the institute has educated generations of engineers, architects, and scientists who have played a · Start Month: January or August key role in laying the State of Israel’s infrastructure and establishing its · Age: 18-30 crucial high-tech industries. · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Not Included It is no secret that Technion Graduates Drive Israel’s High-Tech Economy: Technion graduates make up the majority of Israeli-educated scientists and engineers, constituting more than 70% of the country’s founders and managers of high-tech industries. Technion graduates founded and/or lead two-thirds of Israeli companies on NASDAQ

Academic Programs: · BSc in Civil Engineering · BSc in Mechanical Engineering

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 4 years · Start month: January or August · Age: 18-30 MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 25

ISRAEL BY CHOICE

Israel By Choice (IBC) is a 5 or 10 month program for students aged 18-20 who are not currently affiliated with a youth movement, yet who are interested in a long term gap- year program in Israel. IBC is open to participants from all levels of religious background, political belief and community involvement. The program observes all laws of Shabbat and Kashrut to allow those wishing to observe these customs the opportunity to do so, and to establish mutual respect between participants. IBC introduces participants to a wide range of social, political and religious points of view to allow each participant to explore and gain an understanding of the complexities of modern Israeli society. The name, Israel by Choice, originates from the foundations of the program which include pluralism, personal expression and empowerment, as participants contribute to the design and progress of their gap-year program. Participants are involved in decision making processes which impact where and how they will spend their time during the program. This is performed within a well structured and supportive framework, flexible enough to meet the interests of each participant. PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 5,7 or 10 Months · Start month: February · Age: 16-30 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included

* See page 48 for schedule. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 27

ISRAEL BY DESIGN Design your own Israel program!

If none of the programs in this book are for you – no problem! Just create your own! Israel by Design participants have a unique opportunity to completely create their own gap year in Israel. Participants choose where they want to live, the amount of time they want to spend in Israel and what they would like to do!

If you want to give English lessons to underprivileged youth whilst interning at a Tel Aviv start-up, whilst taking yoga classes – all while living 10 minutes from Tel Aviv’s beautiful beaches? No problem. It’s your program!

The program is suitable for individuals, groups, or a few friends looking to share a meaningful long-term experience in Israel. On your own or with your mates, Israel by Design can give you the Israel experience you really want!

Email [email protected] for more information PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 5+ Months · Start month: Your own choice, in agreement with program · Age: 18-30 · Accommodation: Included Meals: Included * See page 49 for schedule. · MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 29

ISRAEL DANCE JOURNEY

Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company (KCDC), widely recognised as one of the world’s leading dance companies and led by acclaimed Artistic Director, Rami Be’er, hosts a unique 5-month international and pre-professional dance program known as the Dance Journey program. Open to dancers aged 18 years and up from around the globe, the Israel Dance Journey program offers an incredible experience for professional development. Participants learn from company dancers including some of Israel's top choreographers and dance teachers. The dance village is located in Kibbutz Ga'aton in the picturesque region of the Galilee, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. You will also have the opportunity to tour Israel, learn Hebrew, and much more! Types of academic accreditation: Recognized as an apprentice program by most major academic institutions.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 5 Months · Start month: February or September · Age: 18-35 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Not Included MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 31

NITZANA DESERT CHALLENGE

Desert Sports Challenge is a unique, five month program that combines hands on experience of sports activities in the desert, studying Hebrew, touring Israel and getting to know more about Israeli culture. You will be trained by sports professionals in the fields of rappelling, jeeping, diving, navigation, mountain biking, swimming and running. Almost every day you will be involved in physical activities, as well as theoretical study in the classroom. At the end of each week you will have an opportunity to put into action all that you have learned. Approximately once a month, there will be a competition. Your professional instructors will endeavour to meet each individual at his/her level of sportsmanship and endurance.

Nitzana has great facilities. · There is a half Olympic size swimming pool, and a new gym with the latest workout equipment and machines. · There is a two mile (app. 3 km) running track that goes all the way around the community. There is also a 3.10 mile path (5 km) that runs from Nitzana to the Egyptian border along side The Path of Peace. · The terrain for biking is superb. Off road, you will bike through the PROGRAM OVERVIEW desert and over mountains. The view is breathtaking. At times you will · Duration: 10 Months encounter the desert wildlife. The fresh air is great to breathe and the · Start month: September immense expanse of the blue sunny sky is awesome. · Age: 16-30 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 33

mechina KOL AMI

Kol Ami is a post-high school preparatory program (Mechina) with a unique syllabus focusing on issues of peoplehood, Israel engagement, and the bonds between Israelis and the Jewish people abroad and volunteering in the local community.

The current group of participants includes Israelis as well as young people from Australia and New Zealand.

Kol Ami strives to build and promote young, idealist and ambitious leadership which focuses on social responsibility and to position Israel as empowering and, in turn, being empowered by the Jewish communities around the world.

Here's the breakdown: · Young from Israel and around the world getting to know Israel: the land, the culture, and the people. · Six months of personal growth and empowerment (September to February). · Learn and volunteer together to impact Israeli society and each other. · Study public diplomacy, Jewish texts, and the concept of a unified Jewish People – together with Israelis, in English. · Build your physical endurance and navigation skills – the same skills the Israelis are learning to prepare for their service in the . PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 6 Months · Located on the pastoral grounds of a Jewish Agency Youth Village. · Start month: September · Age: 16-30 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 35

ohrsom gap year

The Ohrsom Gap Year Program revolutionises the gap year experience, intending for its participants to gain a meaningful and holistic year-long journey. The program places emphasis on three key areas: Education, Experience and Travel. Education: students are able to gain both formal and informal fundamental Jewish values and concepts as well as career building and personal growth. Experience: Participants are challenged through internships and MDA experiences, but also rewarded through Ski Trips to the North of Israel and Scuba Diving Trips in Eilat. Travel: The program includes traveling abroad to countries such as India where they will hike the Himalayas. Ohrsom takes its participants to Poland for a week of introspection and experiential learning. Students also travel through visiting several cities where they will have the chance to Sky-Dive, Hike, visit the Northern Lights and more! Ohrsom puts emphasis on self-growth and independence, thereby providing students with an apartment in Jerusalem as their base throughout the year. Ohrsom is an international organisation and our students will be spending the year with international participants creating friendships and connections worldwide.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 10 Months · Start month: February · Age: 18 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included

* See page 50 for schedule. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 37

The Project Ten program brings together young Jewish adults from all over the world, to empower them to create sustainable change for PROJECT TEN vulnerable communities in Israel and around the world empowering them. The program helps build sustainable projects in developing Social Action communities and offers a meaningful platform for young Jewish adults from Israel and around the world, to encounter each other explore and encompass what it means to be a "Jewish Activist." The first 5 months are spent volunteering on Kibbutz Harduf in the Galilee region. The next 3 months participants choose to volunteer in one of the following volunteer centres: • Oaxaca, Mexico • Winneba, Ghana • Durban, • Namulanda, Uganda • Gondar, Ethiopia Participants on Kibbutz Harduf can volunteer within two main areas of the Kibbutz: Informal Education and Sustainable Agriculture. Informal Education • Jewish-Arabic Theater studies. • English classes for elementary school children in the Bedouin villages • Work with adults with special needs in Beit Elisha, rehabilitative community in Harduf, in stables, ceramics, vegetable garden, bakery or cafe that they run. • Beit Tuvia: working with children and youth at-risk who have been removed from their homes. Agriculture PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Start month: February or September Work in the organic farms of Kibbutz Harduf, one of the primary · Age: 18-30 producers of organic food in Israel. Work in the forest bio dynamic · Accommodation: Included garden, ecological buildings. · Meals: Included *The Project Ten program is heavily subsidised by the Israeli Government. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 39

TZOFIM GARIN TZABAR IDF Service

The Tzofim Garin Tzabar program is a unique project launched in 1991 and supported by the Ministry of and Integration, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, the Defense Ministry’s Social Security Division, the Ministry of Education, the , Nefesh B’Nefesh, Masa Israel Journey, the , the Religious Kibbutz Movement, the World Zionist Organization, etc. Tzofim Garin Tzabar members are 18-24 year old (women up to the age of 23) Jewish youths from across the globe who chose to make aliyah to Israel to undergo full and meaningful service as lone soldiers in the IDF. The Garin members are integrated within various communities (both religious and secular) throughout Israel that adopt them and become a warm, supportive home for them from arrival in Israel through to discharge from the IDF and even afterwards. This program is heavily subsidised, enquire for price. “Being a isn’t easy but having the help and support system of Garin Tzabar helps me remember why I made this choice in the first place and why I wouldn’t have done it any other way even if I had the chance.“ —Gal Avioz, Sydney, Kibbutz Ginnigar 2015

“Garin Tzabar is your home away from home. If you want a supporting family to help you when you need, there is no better way to do it than Garin Tzabar.” —Alon Katz, Melbourne, Kibbutz 2018 MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY ZFA 41

WAY MORE ISRAEL

Way More Israel is the ultimate gap year program servicing young Aussies. Way More Israel is a 5 month program that lets you live and explore Israel but also gives you the opportunity to intern and focus on your career whilst also enjoying your gap year to its fullest. The program prides itself on giving its participants an all-around experience that encompasses Hebrew ulpan, tours, workshops, hands-on Jewish learning, group volunteer projects and cultural activities all whilst living in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. The internship/volunteer component is 3 months, during this time participants develop and sharpen their skill sets. This is a game changer and will put participants' leagues ahead of their future colleagues by enhancing their resume and ultimately their future career prospects. The last month consists of spending time in the North of Israel combining hiking, community service, and hands-on learning. Weather-permitting, participants spend time outdoors in this holistic Israel experience.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 5 Months · Start month: January · Age: 17-20 · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included

* See page 51 for schedule. MASA ISRAEL JOURNEY

KIBBUTZ ULPAN

Want to learn Hebrew while living and working on a kibbutz and taking part in its rich and unique culture? Kibbutz Ulpan is one of the most affordable long-term programs in Israel and offers programs at different kibbutzim throughout the year. Participating in a Kibbutz Ulpan program is a time-honoured tradition that visitors from all over the world have experienced for more than six decades. Today, it is an ideal choice for anyone looking to spend some time away from home to become part of a community that only exists in Israel. program schedules

PROGRAM OVERVIEW · Duration: 5 Months · Start month: Rolling dates (depending on each Kibbutz) · Accommodation: Included · Meals: Included *Itineraries/sample schedules are subject to change subject to are schedules *Itineraries/sample Aardvark Weekly Schedule

Morning Afternoon Evening

Sunday Volunteering/Internships Special Interest Activities Apartment Meetings

Monday Volunteering/Internships Studies Evening Program (optional)

Tuesday Excursions Excursions Evening Program (optional)

Wednesday Volunteering/Internships Studies Faces of Israel

Thursday Volunteering/Internships Studies Free Weekend with or Special Interest Activities Optional Shabbaton

Big idea Weekly Schedule

Morning Afternoon Evening

Sunday App. Developer Course Evening group activity

Monday Ulpan (Hebrew learning) App. Developer Course Project time Free Evening

Tuesday Day tour/ career seminars/ explore start-up nation/ Volunteering day

Wednesday Ulpan & App. Developer Course Internship Apartment meetings

Thursday Educational Day: Every week participants head out to a different location in Israel and learn more about various topics about the state of Israel, the Jewish people, the history and much more. Weekend Free weekend Friday morning Shuk tour Saturday evening Havdala Optional for those who stay at Be’er Host family for Friday night Sheva: dinner BINA GAP YEAR SCHEDULE

Sunday 8:30-9:30 9:30-9:50 11:20-11:40 11:40-1:10 1:20-2:30 2:30-5:00 5:00-5:20 5:20-6:50 6:50-7:50 Presentation Opening of Break Bible Lunch Electives Break Council Dinner from Weekly the Week Through Meeting Leaders Many Lenses with Elliot Monday 8:00-9:30 9:50-1:00 1:10-2:30 2:30-7:30 7:30-10:00 Team Time Morning Lunch Afternoon Workout Volunteering Volunteering Dinner Free/ House Time Tuesday 8:00-9:00 9:00-9:10 9:10-10:50 10:50-11:10 10:00-1:10 1:10-2:30 3:00-4:30 5:00-7:00 7:00-8:00 8:00-9:30 Musical Break Social Justice Break Issues in Lunch Talmud with Ulpan Dinner Madrich Shacharit with Noga Modern Israel Leon Wiener Presentation Brenner with Yuval Dow Samia Linden Wednesday 8:00-9:00 9:30-9:50 9:50-11:20 11:20-11:40 11:40-1:10 1:10-2:30 2:30-7:30 7:30-10:00 Ecology Break Theatre with Break Pirkei Avot Lunch Volunteering Workout Yael Tal with Shmulik Dinner/ Yadan House Time Beginning of Cleaning Thursday 7:00-9:30 9:00-10:30 11:30-1:00 1:10-3:00 3:00-4:00 4:00-4:50 4:50-6:00 6:45-7:45 Cleaning Ulpan Philosophy Lunch Stories of Break Summary of Dinner with Amos Halutzim the Week Yinon (pioneers) with Muki Tsur Friday 9:30-11:20 11:20-11:40 11:40-1:10 1:10-2:30 Preparation Shabbat Kabbalat Cultural for Shabbat Activity Shabbat Activity Project Time Break Team Time Lunch

Eco israel

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

8:00 PDC Farm Work Day Medical Herbs Class Hebrew I

10:00 Seeding Circle PDC Farm Work Day Medical Herbs Class Hebrew II

11:00 Taska PDC Farm Work Day Medical Herbs Class Sharing SKills

1:00 Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch

2:00 Tour outside the Farm Jewish Heritage Farm Work Day Mud Building Class Harvest Cricle Class

3:00 Tour outside the Farm Jewish Heritage Farm Work Day Mud Building Class Personal Space Class

4:00 Tour outside the Farm Jewish Heritage Farm Work Day Mud Building Class Personal Space Class IBC

February to Jerusalem Independent Living Summarisation/Reflection June During this time (2 months) participants During the second block (2 months) of the During the fi nal month of the program, are offered four tracks (Volunteering, Israel program, participants are encouraged to the emphasis is on summarising all the Advocacy, Midrasha/Yeshiva and sports) to lead an independent lifestyle. They live in incredible friendships, experiences and choose from. All participants on the program apartments in smaller cities of Israel and are memories made over the entirety of the live together during this time regardless of required to shop, cook, clean and budget for program. It is important for participants their track choice. All participants will get themselves. The group usually lives in two to self-refl ect and look forward into how the opportunity to volunteer regardless of separate locations and participate in many they will incorporate all the lessons they their track choice. group activities/trips/learning seminars have learnt into their communities back during this period. in their respective communities. There is *Optional Poland Trip also a substantial amount of fi nal touring, adventure and seminars. July to Magen David Adom- Ecological Farm Ambulance Service August Join volunteers from around the world Participants have the option to volunteer making an impact on Israeli society. The for Magen David Adom and work alongside program is based in nearby the city of Modiin Israeli staff and volunteers on ambulances and serves nearby communities. Volunteer and at MDA stations. On completion of projects are according to your own interests a compulsory intensive 60 hour training and include opportunities for teaching, course, the participants will be qualifi ed to organic agriculture, sustainable living, volunteer on the ambulances, working on a community theatre, childhood development, shift basis. and special needs inclusion.

September Mechina Kol Ami Mechina for 12 weeks. During this time the participants will live, learn and participate to A Mechina is an educational institution in various activities with the members of the November where young Israelis can spend their ‘gap Mechina. This amazing opportunity allows year’ after high school, before beginning the participants to experience Israel and their compulsory national service. In this Israelis fi rst hand and develop long-standing component of the IBC program participants friendships and bonds with their Israeli are given the unique opportunity to join the counterparts.

Dance journey

160 hours 100 hours 300 hours 40 hours 40 hours 40 hours 50 hours

Ballet Modern Dance Repertoire Floor Work Body Conditioning Improvisation Introduction to & Physical Choreography Awareness

60 hours 30 hours 30 hours 40 hours

Original Beginning History & Ethnic Diversity Volunteering Choreography & Modern Culture of & Community Composition Hebrew Israel Outreach Language

All courses, their duration and content are subject to change from semester to semester. ohrsom

February Departure Ski Trip (Mount Jerusalem Introduction Eilat Scuba Internships/Jerusalem Hermon) and Yeshiva/Sem Certifi cation Course Marathon/Purim March Internships/Jerusalem Marathon/Purim April India (Hike in Himilayas, Pre-Pesach Prep MDA Course/ Tour Dehli, Tiger Safari) and Pesach Yom HaShoah/ Yom HaZikaron/ Yom Ha’atzmaut May MDA Volunteering

June Yeshiva/Sem Ohrsom Israel Tour

July Eilat Diving (Advanced Yeshiva/Sem Sar-El Scuba Certifi cation)

August Israel Advocacy Tisha B’Av Yam L’Yam Poland Prep Poland

September Yeshiva/Sem Kibbutz Rosh Hashonah/Yom Kippur/Sukkot

October Europe (4-5 Cities)

November Closing, Goodbyes.

Way more israel

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

7:30 Dinner and 10:00 Orientation (with breakfast!) Group Group Shabbat Shabbat in in Rova Ice-breakers 1:30 Challah bake with Chana Rova 3:00 Free

9:30 Class Rav Gav 9:00-12:00 Ulpan 9:00-12:00 Ulpan 11:00-2:00 Ulpan 9:15 Dr Jacob Friedman Free Free (renowned psychiatrist) speaking 11:00-1:00 - Old City 2:00 Leave for volunteering 2:00 Leave for 3:00 Leave for volunteering at Weisbergs- “Psychiatry and Tour with Patrick volunteering 7.00 Dinner 7:15 Dinner followed by class Spirituality” Amar from Rabbi Shlomo Tal about 7:30 Evening at the Improv 12:45 Leave for JeruRace Adar

Negev Trip 9:00-12:00 Ulpan 9:00-12:00 Ulpan 11:00-2:00 Ulpan 9:15 - Volunteer at Or Meir Free Free U’Bracha 2:00 Leave for volunteering 2:00 Leave for 3:00 Leave for volunteering volunteering 11:00 Internship Pilot Trip 7:15 Dinner 7:15 Dinner 7:45 Character Development 7:45 Class Rabbi J Taub Dr L Bernstein 11:00 Western Wall Begin Internships Internships Internships Internships Free Free Experience 7:15 Dinner 6:00-9:00 Ulpan 6:00 Class Rabbi DB Cohen 7:45 Class 7:15 Dinner Girls - Ayelet Gordon Boys - Rabbi Weiner Class - Q&A with Internships Internships Internships Internships Elisheva 7:15 Dinner 6:00-9:00 Ulpan 7:15 Dinner 1:30 Tour of Shalva 7:45 Movie night 7:45 Refl ections