Every year, hundreds of young Jews from countries across the globe come to Israel for immersive experiences on Masa Israel Journey programs. Cofounded by The Jewish Agency and the Government of Israel in 2004, Masa’s offerings range from study abroad opportunities to internships to Jewish studies programs and more. These experiences empower a new generation of young Jewish leaders, infusing them with a stronger connection to Israel and a deeper understanding of life in the Jewish state.

And a September 2022 Impact:NPO study, called “Israel Immersion,” by Masa proved just that. The report found that young adults who participated in a long-term Masa program in Israel are more likely to be engaged with their Judaism; eight in 10 Masa alumni agreed strongly that being Jewish was an important part of their lives. It further made the case that these programs may, in fact, be the single most effective tool to ensure Jewish continuity, with 92% of long-term Masa alumni intending to raise their children Jewish and 62% reporting they are active in their local Jewish communities.

Masa participants | Photo: Masa Israel Journey

Tisha, 28, from Honolulu, Hawaii, is a Masa Israel Teaching Fellow (MITF) in Netanya. The MITF program is a 10-month fellowship for post-college graduates (21–35) who want to make a difference by teaching English to children in underserved communities in Israel while immersing themselves in Israeli society.

“Israel offers us a completely new perspective and we are privileged to play a part in each student’s education because we can genuinely change their lives,” reflected Tisha. “As Fellows, we bring value to our schools by offering our own experiences and sharing our cultures with our students, motivating students to want to learn English.”

Tisha (front row, right) with fellow Masa participants | Photo provided by Tisha

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Talia in the kitchen | Photo provided by Talia

Meanwhile, Talia, a trained chef in classical French cuisine from London, England, participated in Masa Remote Work, which allows young professionals who can work from home to relocate to Israel. Despite challenges getting catering gigs in Israel, Talia was able to ​​secure work at a few local restaurants and with a renowned cookbook author, and through it all, Masa supported Talia, assisting her in getting a visa and offering resources.

“Israel is a land of hope, opportunity and endless energy, and my time here over the past year has been a dream come true,” Talia shared. “Thanks to Masa, I’ve been able to experience the best of Israel at breakneck speed and indulge in all it has to offer.”

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