By Shai Peretz - Counselor for the 2008 Encounter Program

Ambassador is defined as follows in the dictionary:
"Diplomat sent to a foreign state as a representative of his state who is responsible for nurturing diplomatic relations with the foreign state."

The dictionary with its minimized and archaic definition has not recognized a new, refreshing and advanced type of ambassador - the ambassadors of the Partnership 2000 program.

The Jewish Agency laboratory decided to develop a new type of ambassador. These ambassadors are not diplomats, nor are they responsible for nurturing the relations between governments. Under very strict "laboratory conditions" 15 wonderful youth from Netivot and Sedot Negev were chosen as ambassadors. These youth have outstanding motivation to build ties with their brethren in the Diaspora and are filled with love for their land and their people.

As part of the program a delegation of youth from Philadelphia came for a 10 day visit to Israel and after several days Israeli youth were sent to Philadelphia for the same amount of time. The youth spent time together, toured historical and religious sites, had discussions and were exposed to cultures, societies and communities different to those they have been accustomed. Naturally and consequently the ties between the youth strengthened, a true understanding of the other's hardship and troubles was achieved and the Jewish/Zionist/Israeli identity of the participants was strengthened.

I will end with a personal note stating that it became very clear to me that the activities of these youth in this very welcomed framework can and will be equivalent to much more activities of the best diplomatic ambassadors.