Identity Seminars (Midreshet Masa)

Connection. Identity. Resilience.

Introducing the Ethiopian Community to the Greater Israeli Society

Interactive Workshops

Delivering workshops in schools in an engaging and participatory way.

Learning about Heritage

Deepening knowledge of the rich history, spirit, and traditions of Ethiopian Jewry.

Connection to the Sigd

A personal connection to the inspiring story of the Ethiopian aliyah and the traditional Sigd celebration.

“Midreshet Masa” sends teams of Nishmat students to present seminars for 7000+ Ethiopian-Israeli and Israeli youth in schools around the country every year. Topics include navigating dual identity, modern Zionism, combatting racism, and more. The workshops are conducted in elementary and secondary schools by professional facilitators from the community. It provides a glimpse into the story and values of the Ethiopian community, their journey to the Land of Israel, and the Ethiopian holiday of the Sigd.

The program offers activities both tied to the calendar year and timely events, such as holidays, preparation for summer vacation, Aliyah Week, and more.

Activities can either take place at your school or on our campus.

Activities cover a variety of themes:

Sigd Holiday – The Ethiopian holiday which falls on the 29th of Cheshvan, is a day of fasting, purification, and renewal of the covenant with Hashem.
Jerusalem Day – A celebration of the reunification of Jerusalem, remembering those who perished on the journey to the Land of Israel.
Memorial Day for the Victims of Sudan – Commemorating Jews who perished in the refugee camps in Sudan.
Aliyah Week – Dedicated to honoring the contributions of immigrants to Israel, especially Ethiopian Jews.
Zionism – The aspiration to return to the Land of Israel and establish a Jewish state.
All-Ethiopia Day – A one-day experience of life “back then,” to understand for a moment the meaning of Aliyah.

Program Staff

Dr. Esti Bar-El

Director of Academic Advancement, Nishmat Ethiopian College and Level Up Programs

Bhran Worku

Identity Seminars Coordinator

Alumnae Testimonials

״The wonderful Yerus from the Identity Seminars came to us for the Sigd and led classes from grades 1 through 8, adapted to each level. She shared her personal story, combining pictures, music, and dancing. It was a very hands-on and enjoyable experience. The girls really participated, the teachers were enthusiastic, and it gave a very positive and pleasant taste of the Ethiopian community here with us. Thank you very much!״

Moriah Abramovitch, Talmud Torah Moriah

״We have been working with Midreshet Masa for several years, and they have become our go-to resource for the Sigd holiday. Their talks succeed in making the holiday’s customs accessible to middle school girls in a captivating and meaningful way, while simultaneously addressing questions of personal identity in an age-appropriate manner. The girls leave the sessions full of insights and with a stronger connection to Ethiopian tradition and to themselves. The speakers come with a true sense of mission, professionalism, and a rare ability to connect with teenagers. Highly recommended for any institution seeking content with added value.״

Moran Shtel, Social Education Coordinator, Pelech Jerusalem

״I would like to recommend the activity we held through Midreshet Masa, led by Rivka—an activity that was simply amazing and moving beyond all expectations. Rivka managed to captivate the girls in an extraordinary way. She presented an engaging and diverse presentation, spoke about Ethiopian culture, their journey, and her personal story, and introduced many things to the girls that they had never known. She strengthened them in their emuna, in themselves, and in their own strength, creating a deep and moving bond between everyone. At the end of the activity, she taught the girls dances, sang songs, and the atmosphere was filled with joy and laughter. It was a rare combination of depth and lightness, emotion and happiness.״

Oriah, Ulpenat Mevo Choron

For Details or Registration

ברהן וורקו

0546259849

0523107919