The idea of Jewish Peoplehood and the recognition of Jewish diversity is central to the work of The Jewish Agency. Through a range of programs, we aim to ensure that every Jew learns about the existence of different Jewish identities and communities, and encourage an appreciation and understanding of these varying Jewish philosophies. In Israel especially, we partner with dozens of organizations in both the informal and formal education fields, as well as local municipalities, to help integrate Jewish peoplehood into activities and curricula.

Gap year accelerator program participants in a session | Photo: The Jewish Agency for Israel

The gap year accelerator program is one such initiative, developed in partnership with the Joint Council of Mechinot (Gap-Year Leadership Academies). Mechinot students are paired up with young Masa Israel Journey participants for educational sessions in which they all discuss Jewish peoplehood and their experiences as Jews living in Israel and abroad.

“The gap year accelerator program has provided our participants with opportunities to develop meaningful connections with their Israeli peers and interact on multiple levels, helping our teens feel part of Israeli society,” said Rabbi Adam Drucker, Director of Education at Young Judaea Israel (a Masa Israel Journey-supported program).

Gap year accelerator participants | Photo: The Jewish Agency for Israel

“Getting to meet young Jews from a wide spectrum of Judaism, truly representing Jewish people from all over, is really special and powerful,” said Liad, 19, from Zurich, Switzerland, a participant in the gap year accelerator program studying at Mechinat Aderet-Ayanot.