Alex passed his high school matriculation with excellence. With his love for mechanical engineering, he was chosen to serve in the army’s elite Givati brigade as a bomb detonator. Alex yearned to continue his studies, and was accepted to Tel Aviv University. However, he knew that he would have to work first to pay for his education.

When Alex was accepted to Atidim in Industry, a program supported by the Jewish Agency, he could not believe his good fortune. The program, which proactively identifies the top 30 percent of youth from low-income communities and offers them equal access to higher education, is helping Alex tremendously. “I can really concentrate on my studies without worrying about my finances. I am part of a great company where I am learning my profession and I have people who are behind me one hundred percent.”

A central element of Atidim is its cooperation with leading Israeli companies. Through the program, Alex has been adopted by Phoenicia America-Israel (Flat Glass) Ltd., one of Israel’s largest glass suppliers. Phoenicia finances part of Alex’s scholarship, and he in turn works at the company a few hours every week and during the summer vacation, learning and gaining valuable experience. His “mentor” from the company helps him in the work environment as well as with his studies. Upon earning his degree, Alex is ensured full-time employment at the company for three years.

Benny Landa, one of Israel’s leading businessmen, succinctly sums up the Atidim in Industry Program, “Atidim develops what would have been wasted potential of some of the most talented youth in the country, and changes their lives. These young people, were it not for their background, would have been considered the most promising people in Israel. Atidim allows them to fulfill their potential and contribute fully to Israeli society.”

Written by Lisa Samin