Shana Tova 2026 from Leaders of the Future
September 2026
A Belief That Became a Legacy
Fifteen years ago, Leaders of the Future began with a simple belief: that Ethiopian-Israeli youth deserve every opportunity to become the leaders their communities and country need.
As we welcome Rosh Hashana, a season for looking inward, renewal, and giving thanks, we’re grateful for how far that belief has carried us.
One year and one student at a time: hundreds of graduates, a 100% university-eligible matriculation rate across every class, and hundreds of families whose paths have changed because someone believed in their children early enough for it to matter.
Showing Up, Every Day
That work continues at Oranim Academic College, with students from Haifa, Afula, the Krayot, Tirat HaCarmel, and Nesher; at the Hebrew Reali School in Haifa; and in the laboratories of Ben-Gurion University in Be’er Sheva.
We see its impact in Simcha Tzaga, an eighth grader who told us, “Before joining the program, studying was very difficult for me. Over time, I became more confident and successful.” We see it, too, in Uriel Shmuel, who found his place in a new school and was recognized as an outstanding student.
Fifteen years in, these stories still move us every time.
A Summer of Learning, Connection, and Growth
This summer, our students had opportunities to learn, build friendships, try new experiences, and discover new strengths in themselves. Beyond the activities themselves, the program created a space where students could feel supported, connected, and free to grow.
From Students to Leaders
The impact of this work extends far beyond a single program or season. We see it in the young adults who first came through our doors as students and have since gone on to pursue their own paths. Mehrat Deressa, who went on to study Electrical Engineering at the Technion, reflects: “The support I received helped me strengthen my academic foundation and build confidence. I continue to feel the impact of that long-term support.”
We now have the privilege of seeing the lasting impact of that early investment as our students grow into young adults and chart paths of their own.
Looking Ahead, Together
None of this happened by accident, or alone. As we step into the Jewish new year, we carry deep gratitude for this community that has stood with us for 15 years, and real excitement for the students whose story is still being written.
May this be a year of sweetness, strength, and continued partnership.
Shana Tova U’Metuka, The Leaders of the Future Team
Thank You for Your Support
“LOF reminded me that I am not alone, and that I am stronger than I thought.”
–Odel Abhat, Youth Program Participant
Comments