 Despite current conditions in Israel, Friends of Ethiopian Jews recently hosted our annual gathering of Ethiopian Israeli leaders, activists and changemakers to discuss the most pressing issues facing the community today.For the first time since October 7th, these leaders met in person (rather than on zoom) for a day of sharing, supporting, learning and analyzing the most pressing needs of the Ethiopian Israelis today. The conference was held at the Beta Israel Village – one of the most original programs supported by FEJ and a must see on any visit to Israel! Bringing together Ethiopian-Israeli nonprofits assisted by FEJ, as well as independent activists, professors, teachers and directors of municipal programs, was an opportunity for Ethiopian Israeli leadership to discuss best practices and hone the focus of dozens of programs and intiatives. Economic advancement and parity ranked highest on the list of concerns, with cultural identity, help for the elderly, mental health and combatting ongoing systemic discrimination completing the top five. Many participants ended the day by planning to collaborate on overlapping projects. And many new directors were glad to have the chance to confer with “vatkim” – the seasoned leaders who have been driving change for years. We need YOUR help to make the ideas and visions of these changemakers a reality in Israel.
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Moshe Solomon, MK & Founder of the Beta Israel Village (on left) with Rav Dr. Sharon Shalom (right), author and head of the Ono College Ethiopian Jewish Stuides Program, opened the day. |
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We thank the inspiring Ethiopian Israeli changemakers who came from across the country to share their dreams and visions for the future of Israel. Here are some of our incredible participants and partners: |
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Rina Ayalin-Gorelik, CEO of AEJ (right), with Yuvi Tashome, CEO of Friends by Nature (center) and the women of Empowering Ethiopian Women – a new NGO, (left) |
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Tali Semani, psychologist and author, was the Conference Moderator |
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Small group discussions were held throughout the day. |
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Asher Elias (left), Founder & CEO of BIBC, Beta Israel Business Community, with Yeshitu Samuel, LCSW, Founder & CEO of Wuste Tzega Center for Culturally Adapted Psychothereapy |
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FEJ Board Member Barbara Gaffin (on right) with the Tebeka team – CEO Attorney Tomer Marsha (right), Attorney Moshe Adgo (center) and Attorney Almog Ismah (left) |
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The charming Beta Israel Educational Village & Conference Center, Kiryat Gat |
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Your generosity is crucial to these unique initiatives and programs. We thank you deeply for your ongoing support of the Ethiopian-Israeli community in Israel. |
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Thank You! Follow us on Facebook, visit our website or email us to learn more about FEJ and the incredible Ethiopian-Israeli initiatives we support. |
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