Gap years in Israel...and Africa?

New Tzedek chief executive Jude Williams wants young Jews on gap years to gain a more rounded experience by visiting both Israel and a developing country.

Ms Williams — the former director of young adult group Jeneration — wants to take the international development charity “into every home of the Jewish community”. That includes putting it on the agenda of people looking to do volunteering and seeking a meaningful Jewish experience.

“It would be wonderful if there was a project where you could spend time in Eastern Europe, Israel and in Africa as well,” she said. “Three different ways to experience being Jewish. Israelis who go travelling are now having these profound Jewish experiences outside of Israel.”

Tzedek will move out of the Pears Foundation’s start-up space JHub this summer into new premises. The plan is to continue to grow. “We are perceived as a young persons’ charity. We want to work more with professionals and retirees,” Ms Williams explained.