April 27, 2008 / 22 Nissan 5768

The Jewish Agency holds a special place in the hearts of Shlomit Avraham and her family. We have helped her integrate and succeed in Israel, every step of the way.

Shlomit Avraham, 19, was born in Ethiopia and came to Israel at the age of two. She feels that she has a firm grasp of both Israeli and Ethiopian culture, and this has made her an effective young leader in the Ethiopian community. “Throughout high school I was a youth counselor for Ethiopian kids in Afula, where I grew up. I was constantly encouraging them to step out of the Ethiopian community and experience what was happening in Israeli society.” As a result, Shlomit invited both veteran Israeli and Arab youth to join her group to encourage interaction and understanding among youngsters from all different sectors.

In addition to her social activities, Shlomit was determined to get ahead in school. “My parents worked very hard so that all ten of their children would have a chance for a better future in Israel. At the same time, the Jewish Agency supported our advancement and gave us opportunities that pushed us forward.”

Shlomit joined the Jewish Agency’s Sparks of Science program which supports the advancement of Ethiopian students in math and science. The program is run in conjunction with Israel’s major universities. “When there were 40 people in a class I got lost, especially in math,” says Shlomit. “Through Sparks of Science I received special tutoring, twice a week, with only five kids in a class. We went to the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology once a week where we had great science classes. I never would have passed my math matriculation exams without this program.”

Shlomit also took part in a special music enrichment program that cost close to $1,000. The Jewish Agency supported her participation, and Shlomit has developed into an accomplished singer. “My parents always encouraged us, but their economic situation was difficult. The Jewish Agency really helped me to utilize my potential.”

Today, Shlomit is doing her national service at a hospital in Afula. After finishing her service she plans to take her college entrance exams and study communications or international relations. “I feel that I have been so lucky,” says Shlomit. “I come from a great family that backs me in everything that I do. I also have the support of the Jewish Agency and people from all over the world who really care about me. I never felt that I lacked anything.”