Masa students meet Bennett and Sharansky
More than 3,000 young Jews from around the world, participating in long terms programs through Masa Israel Journey, have attended the Masa Israel Journey Conference and End of 2012-2013 Academic Year Event at the Jerusalem International Convention Centre.
From: Benjamin Rutland, Jerusalem, Monday
MASA students
The Masa program participants were addressed by the Israeli Minister of the Economy, Naftali Bennett, Chairman of Executive of The Jewish Agency for Israel, Natan Sharansky. They also participated in a panel discussion with the outstanding Israeli sportsmen and women Ariel ‘Arik’ Zeevi, Karen Leibowitz and Andi Ram.
Olympic medalist Judoka Ariel ‘Arik’ Zeevi said, “After a year in Israel, you will be the best ambassadors for our country.”
Naftali Bennett, Minister of the Economy said: “I salute those of you who are planning on making Aliyah. We need every one of you. For those of you that are planning to return home, I am certain that after a year here, the State of Israel will remain close to your hearts and that you will continue to visit us.”
Natan Sharansky held an open dialogue with the students during which he told them: “Masa participants discover their roots while visiting Israel and they discover that the Jewish people is one family. It is very important to us that you feel part of our family and that you represent us upon your return home.”
Masa Israel Journey is a joint project of Government of Israel and The Jewish Agency for Israel, whose aim is to strengthen the connection between young Jews around the world and the State of Israel. Participants spend 5-10 months in Israel and can choose from a wide range of programs involving volunteer work, studying or professional internships. Over 10,000 young Jews from 60 countries participate in Masa programs each year. Upon their return to their home countries, many graduates become involved with their local Jewish communities and become ambassadors for Israel.
The Jewish Agency is partly funded by the UIA.
Former Sydneysider Benjamin Rutland is Spokesperson to the Foreign and English Language Media at the Jewish Agency in Jerusalem.
nice article,benjy.short and to the point.keep up the good work!