This month, “Seeds of Partnership”, a Jewish-Arab leadership program run by Standing Together in collaboration with Hechalutz, launched the fourth cohort. This program aims to foster young Arab and Jewish leaders committed to building a just, equal, and peaceful society in Israel. By focusing on promoting Arab-Jewish partnership, it seeks to address the deep-rooted divisions within Israeli society and empower a new generation of change-makers.
Despite improvements over the past two decades, Arab society in Israel still faces challenges like inequality and limited integration. The ongoing conflict worsens these issues and hinders full participation in society. Limited interaction between Arabs and Jews fosters misunderstanding and alienation, which is intensified during conflicts. Effective leadership, the leaders of the program believe, is now crucial to advance equality and integration for Arabs in Israel.
Leadership Seminar and Alumni Network
The core of the “Seeds of Partnership” program is its summer leadership seminar, an intensive two-week experience that brings together a cohort of 25-30 young Jews and Arabs. The seminar is designed to be a formative experience that deeply engages participants with the challenges facing Israeli society, equipping them with the tools to create partnerships, mobilize people for change, and lead social action. The seminar includes lessons, workshops, and meetings with experts on topics like Arab-Jewish partnership, democracy, social justice, and environmental issues.
The program’s impact extends far beyond the seminar itself. The alumni network, currently comprising around 100 graduates, continues to bring together participants to maintain dialogue, integrate into key positions within Israeli society, and support each other in their ongoing work. Alumni work in various sectors, including civil society, media, education, politics, and culture. Some notable positions held by alumni include the Assistant CEO of Deir al-Asad Local Council, a presenter and editor at Makan channel, and the Director of Education in Rahat’s municipality.
The network holds four seminars each year to consolidate its members, address current challenges, and provide professional support. Despite the challenges posed by times of tension and war, the alumni network has managed to maintain an exceptionally high level of partnership and involvement, demonstrating the resilience and commitment of its members.
In February 2024, “Seeds of Partnership” received a certificate of appreciation from the Knesset for its contribution to Arab-Jewish partnership, social cohesion, and hostility reduction in light of the current security situation. The program has successfully faced the challenge of recruiting participants, with demand far exceeding the number of available spots.
Additional Projects
“Seeds of Partnership” provides in-depth training for over 16 Arab and Jewish organizations. It also conducts specialized sessions in educational institutions, reaching about 500 young adults and 50 staff members. Tailored to various needs, the training expands the program’s impact and includes institutions like the Jerusalem Pre-Military Academy, AJEEC, Tel-Hai College, the University of Haifa, and the Sabaya Center. This outreach fosters dialogue and partnership between young Arabs and Jews.
Recognizing the unique role of academia as a meeting point for young Jews and Arabs, Seeds of Partnership has established a Female Students Circle for Arab and Jewish female students in partnership with Tel-Hai College.The circle, which has been running for two years, provides a space for intimacy, expression, and the encouragement of interpersonal and activist partnership. Participants earn two academic credits for their involvement. In the coming year, another circle will be opened in partnership with the University of Haifa.
Planned Developments
Do you need support integrating these resources and issues into your philanthropic, communal, or Israel education work? Reach out for consultations, connections to experts, program support, training, or to plan your next event or mission. If you’ve used our resources, tell us about your experience!
Do you need support integrating these resources and issues into your philanthropic, communal, or Israel education work? Reach out for consultations, connections to experts, program support, training, or to plan your next event or mission. If you’ve used our resources, tell us about your experience!