June 3, 2008 /  29 Iyar 5768

Shira Shato (24) made aliyah from Ethiopia with her mother and some of her 11 brothers and sisters in 1984. Her older brothers had come earlier, and her father came a few months after she arrived. Shira grew up in Migdal Haemek, and was an outstanding student. In the army she served as a commander of a medic’s course, and was recognized for her excellent work. 

Upon leaving the army, Shira received a letter from Atidim inviting her to participate in a new program, Cadets for Public Service. The program, supported by the Jewish Agency, prepares talented youngsters possessing exceptional leadership skills to enter key positions in Israel’s public service sector.

Shira joined Cadets for Public Service, receiving a full academic scholarship, a living stipend, a laptop computer and tutoring assistance. The special course of study included theoretical background, development of leadership skills, social activities, first hand experience working in the public sector and a bachelor’s degree from Hebrew University.

Shira majored in international relations and political science. She also volunteered at a pedagogic center in one of Jerusalem’s most underprivileged neighborhoods, tutoring school children and organizing afternoon activities. She lived in the neighborhood with another student from the former Soviet Union. 

“This program was great for me,” says Shira. “After I completed my studies I committed to working for five years in the public sector.” 

Last year, Shira served as a Hillel emissary in Columbus, Ohio. Today, she is on a fast track to success at Israel’s Ministry of Industry, Labor and Trade.

“Atidim creates great opportunities for young people like me to achieve their full potential,” says Shira. “It removes educational and social obstacles that get in our way to move forward in Israeli society.”

To learn more about the Jewish Agency's innovative Atidim programs for pre and post high school students that ensure educational and vocational success for thousands of Israelis in Sderot and across the country here, click here.

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