
Uplifting the Marginalized Israeli Druze Minority
More than three years in the making, the Sanabel Leadership Program is creating waves in Israel as the premier leadership program for Israeli Druze teenagers. Join Ofer Bavly, Director General of JUF's Israel Office, to learn about the evolution of this program and the impact it is having on this minority community in Israel. The first cohort was launched in September 2023—just weeks before the horrendous attacks and the ensuing Swords of Iron war—and has since provided skill-building, connection, and leadership opportunities. Ofer will be joined by Dr. Reda Mansour, Sanabel steering committee member, former Israeli ambassador, and current CEO of Star for Life Jerusalem Foundation. The Sanabel Leadership Program is a cohort-based ten-year leadership program for Druze teenagers from Northern Israel, created and launched by the Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago. The program will form a cadre of successful young Druze in Northern Israel to lead their community in integrating into Israeli society while maintaining their heritage, culture, and identity.