Apply
Sign-in
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Youtube

Providing an Outstanding Educational Experience

Givat Haviva International School in northern Israel is a coed boarding high school that brings together promising young students from diverse communities and varying economic backgrounds. Over three years they are developed as leaders for cross-cultural cooperation and conflict resolution through a unique approach blending academic excellence with emotional intelligence.

Students aged 15 to 18 live and study together in a respectful, listening community where their individual backgrounds and personal stories are truly valued. In this environment, they form enduring friendships that cross divides and connect communities. GHIS teaches the two-year IBDP, as well as a 10th grade class for Israeli and Arab Jewish day students with a rigorous pre-IB academic education.

About
About

Building GHIS

GHIS is part of the Havatzelet Group – a non-profit organization working in the field of promoting shared society education.
In 2018, Havatzelet and Givat Haviva decided to establish GHIS as an essential part of their mission.

Learn more

Local and International Advisors

Central to the success of GHIS continues to be the practical and financial support of our dedicated local and international advisors.
Learn more

Leadership Team

GHIS was opened in 2018 under the leadership of Nurit Gery and Yuval Dvir as an educational incubator to develop ethical leaders for the future — to help move from disharmony to egalitarian societies that operate in peace.

plus icon

Read bio
Yaniv Sagee
Co-Founder

plus icon

Read bio
Nurit Gery
Executive Director

plus icon

Read bio
Yuval Dvir
Head of GHIS
Co-Founder

plus icon

Read bio
Clare King Lassman
Director of Communications and Fundraising

plus icon

Read bio
Hadas Talmon
Director of Boarding

plus icon

Read bio
Yardena Spector-Nizri
Director of Admissions
Alumni Relations

Our Diverse Faculty and Staff

Leading GHIS is a team of experienced and empathetic academics, administrators and staff committed to supporting the school’s mission to prepare and inspire students to bring about positive change in the world. The aim is for them to mirror the diversity of the student population, becoming role models. They are passionate about helping every student maximize their learning and development both inside and outside the classroom.

plus icon

Read bio
Hannah Wilpon
IB Coordinator
Head of English

plus icon

Read bio
Hiba Younis

Arabic

Mentor

plus icon

Read bio
Ahmad Asali
Arabic
Mentor

plus icon

Read bio

David Zehavi

Hebrew Literature

Mentor

plus icon

Read bio
Katy Khoury
Chemistry

plus icon

Read bio

Victor Kapilevich

Economics

plus icon

Read bio
Kerrie Shvaike

Assitant Headteacher – Teaching and Learning

Global Politics

plus icon

Read bio
Shani Manor

English

TOK

Mentor

plus icon

Read bio
Haya Gelman
Hebrew Literature

plus icon

Read bio
Assaf Dagai
Mathematics
Computer Science
Mentor

plus icon

Read bio
Tamar Eshel
Mathematics

plus icon

Read bio
Nir Navon
Mathematics

plus icon

Read bio
Benny Tavory

plus icon

Read bio
Natalie Krasnostein
Theater

plus icon

Read bio
Efrat Gal Shemesh
Visual Arts
Mentor

plus icon

Read bio

Josh Yarden, PhD

Theory of Knowledge

Social and Cultural Anthropology

World Religions

Mentor

plus icon

Read bio

Merav Geva, PhD

Biology

Mentor

plus icon

Read bio

Dotan Yarden

Music

English

Mentor

plus icon

Read bio

Nazira Abu Dbay Taha

Physics

 

plus icon

Read bio

Yamit Himmelfarb

Spanish

 

 

Staff

As a community we firmly believe that education takes place not only in our classrooms, but also in the dormitories, dining hall, on the fields and stage, and anywhere faculty and staff interact with our students.
Student Guidance Team

plus icon

Read bio

Gigi Azem

Director of Students Well-Being

plus icon

Read bio
Carrie Golan

School Therapist

plus icon

Read bio
Rana Zahalka Younis
Educational Counselor

plus icon

Read bio
Dr. Jonathan (Yoni) Kaplan
University Guidance Counselor
Community Educators

plus icon

Read bio

Rom Idan

Community Educator

plus icon

Read bio

Ilia Sergeev

Community Educator

plus icon

Read bio

Clémence Cougourdan

Community Educator

plus icon

Read bio

Ketsia Mayenne

Community Educator

Campus Life Associates

plus icon

Read bio

Shira Lavi

Volunteer

plus icon

Read bio

Aviv Barnea

Volunteer

plus icon

Read bio

Elina Ibragimov

Volunteer

plus icon

Read bio

Adar Tamir

Volunteer

plus icon

Read bio

Malte Schäkel

Volunteer

plus icon

Read bio

Shiri Licht

Volunteer

plus icon

Read bio

Amit Adar

Volunteer

Employment Opportunities

GHIS is committed to recruiting and retaining an exceptional faculty and staff who reflect the empathy and kindness that underpins the school’s culture. Our dynamic educators are deeply committed to the entire student experience.

Thank you for your interest in GHIS. We welcome applications from recent high school graduates or current college students who would like to assist with admissions or marketing. Please email Nurit Gery at nurit@gh-is.org with your CV and a cover letter explaining your interest in our school.

About

Non-Discrimination Policy

GHIS is committed to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin or sexual orientation. At GHIS we encourage applications from and do not discriminate against students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin or sexual orientation.

  • Givat Haviva
    Mobile Post Menashe
    3785000 Israel
  • Tel: +972 46309240
  • admissions@gh-is.org
GH 1
dp-programme-logo-en 1
GHavazeletGr 1
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Youtube
  • © Copyright, GHIS, 2021. Photography by Danielle Mehler.

Yaniv Sagee

Chair
Co-Founder

For more than seven decades, Givat Haviva has provided educational programs aimed at developing a just, equal, and inclusive society. In 2018, we created GHIS as an educational incubator to develop leaders for the future of our world, the Middle East, and Israel—to help move from competition and struggle between nations to a shared, egalitarian society that operates in peace.

GHIS students study the complexity of global conflicts, the differences, and the similarities between them. They learn that individual identity can exist while accepting the identity of the other, and that conflict can be transcended through greater mutual understanding.

Our school draws on the insights of the IB program and the experience of our students from around the world, and supplements it with conflict resolution knowledge accumulated over more than 70 years in Givat Haviva. With this formula a responsible cohort of young people is being created that will one day lead our shared society.

As CEO of Givat Haviva from 2012-2021, Yaniv was one of Israel’s primary leaders of shared society. In this role he created programs that promote these values and educate as many citizens as possible to the benefits of working together.

Nurit Gery

Executive Director
Co-Founder

GHIS is more than just a school. Through our students, their families and communities, and the growing network of committed supporters, GHIS’s impact stretches around the world. Our mission of building peace through education is a message that is resonating far and wide to attract students and stakeholders alike—individuals who appreciate that they can be part of a project that is creating a new cohort of leaders for change.

Together, people of all faiths, from the United States and around the world, are building a like-minded community much larger than the GHIS population. Our school’s impact is creating a ripple effect across the globe, and I am grateful for the incredible commitment and contribution of all supporters—from diverse communities in the United States, to the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Northern Ireland, Morocco and many more.

Our supporters understand the value of educating our passionate and ambitious young students through a lens of shared experience. All will gain a global perspective, top-class education and applicable skills for their future, giving them confidence to be agents of change in all spheres of life both in Israel and across the world.

Nurit joined Givat Haviva in 2015 after 20 years in senior corporate roles. She has traveled around the world building a network of partners, friends, and supporters with GHIS at its core. Nurit graduated from Technion – Israel Institute of Technology with a B.A. in Biology, and has an MBA from the University of San Francisco, California.

Yuval Dvir

Head of GHIS
Co-Founder

GHIS provides a world-class educational experience that equips our students with the tools, knowledge, and life skills to thrive in a diverse, globalized society. We offer the internationally acclaimed IB Diploma Programme facilitated entirely in English, a robust extracurricular program, dynamic residential campus life, and a team of highly experienced, qualified, and dedicated educators.

We are fully committed to the well-being, personal growth, and academic success of each of our students. We have developed extensive support systems ranging from pastoral and emotional care, trained boarding staff, a learning support center, one-on-one tutoring, career counseling, and guidance through the university application process. We ensure that each of our students is matched with a teacher-mentor throughout their enrollment in order to holistically support them.

Above all, GHIS is a community of eager and passionate leaders. We believe in people. We believe in education. We believe that our graduates will carry our mission and expertise, and transform the world by connecting people and making their societies fairer, more just, and more inclusive.

Yuval is a doctoral candidate at the Institute of Education at University College London. He has a B.A. in Economics and Business Management, an M.A. in Education Leadership and Administration, and an M.Mus. in Musical Performance from Tel Aviv University.

Clare King Lassman

Director of Communications and Fundraising

Clare joined GHIS in 2017 as a fundraiser, forming part of the founding team that brought the project to life. GHIS gives Clare the perfect platform to share the very best of Israel with an international audience. “In the future we will see GHIS alumni leading their peers and making this region and the world more equitable.”

Clare came to Israel on sabbatical from the UK in 2007 having worked in fundraising for nonprofits for more than 15 years. She immediately volunteered in initiatives bringing together Arabs and Jews. Understanding the importance of bridging the divide, and wishing to connect diaspora Jewry to shared society projects, she committed herself to this role professionally. Clare and her family decided to settle in Israel and she has been working in this field ever since.

Before gaining her B.A. in Urban Studies from Sussex University, Clare graduated from the Institute for Youth Leaders from Abroad in Jerusalem.

Hadas Talmon

Director of Boarding

Hadas heads up the GHIS boarding team and also coordinates all the CAS activities. She spent an impactful year at the Arava Institute with international students, including Palestininans and Jordanians, which opened her mind to the power of cooperation in a multicultural setting.

“When I heard about GHIS, I knew I had to be involved in helping a new generation of young Israelis learn it is possible to listen and respect others’ opinions without judgment.” Hadas lives on campus with her young family, and is available to students 24/7.

Immediately prior to joining GHIS, Hadas was a geo-political tour guide and involved in environmental education. She earned her B.A. in Geography and Environmental Development from Ben Gurion University and an M.A. in Natural Resource and Environmental Management from the University of Haifa.

Yardena Spector-Nizri

Director of Admissions and Alumni Relations

Yardena sees a direct connection between her teenage role as the founder of the Scout troop in Kfar Saba, and the milestones that connect her professional life. From director of Young Judaea summer programs to dean of students for AMHSI, each involved her creating something from scratch, guiding teams, taking responsibility, and managing big and complex projects.

Even before GHIS was founded, Yardena was there to help; originally as a volunteer and later as the director of admissions. “I am proud to be the first person that potential students meet in their interview, and the one who will stay connected as they become alumni. I feel as if they are my own children, and am honored to celebrate their successes with them.”

Yardena obtained her B.A. in Education and Political Science from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and has recently completed an M.A. in American Jewish Studies from the University of Haifa.

Hannah Wilpon

IB Coordinator
Head of English

Hannah came to Israel from Washington D.C. as a teaching fellow with the Masa Israel Journey program, where she taught English to middle school students. As the year came to an end, she decided to stay and joined GHIS.

“I like to be busy, so as well as teaching English language and literature, plus Spanish, I recently took on the challenge of becoming the IBDP coordinator.”

Hannah earned a B.A. in History from Elon University, North Carolina, and is also a certified history teacher.

Hiba Younis

Arabic

Hiba is a GHIS superstar—no job is too big or too small. She teaches Arabic, and is both a school administrator and a mentor. Totally dependable, Hiba is outstanding in everything she does.

“To be a mentor is to give the students support as a mother. To be a teacher at GHIS is a totally different experience from my work in other schools. I wish I could have been a student here.”

Hiba obtained her B.A. from El Qasame College, and M.A. in English Literature from Bar Ilan University.

Ahmad Asali

Arabic
Mentor

Ahmad joins GHIS as an Arabic A teacher for the DP1 cohort, and also teaches Arabic to 10th grade students.  He is a newly qualified teacher in citizenship and nationalism, and has substantial experience in the area of Jewish-Arab shared education.  

“Facing and being aware of social issues has a big and meaningful value in my life. I believe that the mutual responsibility between citizens and countries is the key to creating a better place to live. My purpose is to be involved in promoting the face of the society and to be dedicated to human rights around the world. Being part of those changes and having had influence truly defines me.” 

Ahmad earned his B.A. in Political Science and Media from Tel Aviv University, where he also gained his teaching certificate.

David Zehavi

Hebrew Literature
Mentor

David joined GHIS because he was looking for the right educational establishment to develop personally and professionally. As soon as he heard about GHIS, he realized that it suits his values.

“As someone who has always been committed to coexistence in Israel, I see GHIS as a great vehicle to bring young people together in an accepting and non-prejudicial way.”

As well as being a teacher, David is also trained in special needs education at the elementary school level..

David holds a joint Honours B.Ed.  in Special Education ages 6 to 21, and BA in Literature at Oranim College  

David Zehavi

Hebrew Literature
Mentor

David joined GHIS because he was looking for the right educational establishment to develop personally and professionally. As soon as he heard about GHIS, he realized that it suits his values.

“As someone who has always been committed to coexistence in Israel, I see GHIS as a great vehicle to bring young people together in an accepting and non-prejudicial way.”

As well as being a teacher, David is also trained in special needs education at all school levels.

David holds a joint Honors B.Ed.  in Special Education ages 6 to 21, and BA in Literature at Oranim College 

Katy Khoury

Chemistry

Katy is an extremely experienced and highly sought-after chemistry teacher. Prior to GHIS, she worked for many years as a lecturer at Madatech, Israel National Museum of Science, Technology and Space, and also taught at top high schools in Haifa.

“GHIS is a special place which allows me to develop my abilities and express myself. I am accepted by students and staff as I am—which is different from other places where I have worked.”

Katy obtained a B.Sc in Chemistry Education and a Teaching Certificate from Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, an M.Sc. in Education in Technology and Science, and a B.Sc. Chemistry from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Victor Kapilevich

Economics

Victor has a diverse real-life business background. Prior to GHIS, he worked for international schools teaching Economics and Business and Management. Before starting his teaching career, Victor had various marketing roles in global consulting and banking companies.

“GHIS is a unique environment that allows me to utilize and combine my international practical experience and teaching passion. My key goal is to widen students’ horizons from standard “bookish” knowledge to real life application of Business and Economics theory.

Victor gained a M.A. in Socio- Economic Geography from Moscow State University after M.V. Lomonosov and and M.A. in Pedagogical Science, from Moscow City Pedagogical University. Victor holds a professional IB Professional Development IB Certificate  Cat.2  Economics and Business management.

Victor has a diverse real-life business background. Prior to GHIS, he worked for international schools teaching Economics and Business and Management. Before starting his teaching career, Victor had various marketing roles in global consulting and banking companies.

“GHIS is a unique environment that allows me to utilize and combine my international practical experience and teaching passion. My key goal is to widen students’ horizons from standard “bookish” knowledge to real life application of Business and Economics theory.

Victor gained a M.A. in Socio- Economic Geography from Moscow State University after M.V. Lomonosov and and M.A. in Pedagogical Science, from Moscow City Pedagogical University. Victor holds a professional IB Professional Development IB Certificate  Cat.2  Economics and Business management.

Kerrie Shvaike

English
Global Politics

Kerrie has been writing all her life; she was a journalist and worked in radio before deciding that teaching was her true vocation. She has always believed in the advantages students gain from living in a multicultural and diverse environment, and she wants to show GHIS students that any of them can have an impact if they chose the path of politics.

“The IB system gives me the leeway to teach new things and develop new initiatives. I encourage the students to always speak up, even when they do not feel confident.”

Kerrie has an M.A. in Politics from the University of Edinburgh, a UK Teaching Certificate from University of London, Celta English Teaching Certificate from Cambridge University, and is currently working on an M.A. Education at the University of Bath.

Shani Manor

English

Shani is an experienced educator with a background in American and Israeli education institutions and international NGOs. Having grown up in both Israel and the USA, she is thoroughly familiar with the experience of studying abroad and understands the challenges students face. Shani loves knowledge, interactions, learning, and teaching, and once in a while, she’ll bring her guitar and sing the material to students.

“For me, education is a mind-blowing experience — big bangs that happen in our brain as we connect the dots of our experience of existence. As a teacher, it is my way to teach students to think for themselves and believe anything is possible for them to achieve.”

Shani has an MA in Government Studies from the Interdisciplinary School, where she wrote her thesis on the US Security Council’s decision making process on military intervention. She also holds a BA from Manhattanville College in Philosophy, Writing, and African Studies, as well as a teaching certificate from Levinsky College of Education.

Haya Gelman

Hebrew Literature

Haya had not planned to continue teaching, but after meeting the students and faculty at GHIS she knew that joining was the only way forward.

“Literature and humanities enable my students to learn how to rethink their life and surroundings in open and pluralistic ways. I see my role as opening their minds and teaching them tools to develop critical and broad thinking.” In her additional role as a mentor, Haya aims to support her mentees through their years at GHIS.

Haya earned her B.A. in Mass Communication and Management from Tel Aviv University, and M.A. in Hebrew Comparative Literature from the University of Haifa.

Assaf Dagai

Mathematics
Computer Science
Mentor

Formerly a senior software developer at Amdocs in Israel, Assaf decided in 2018 to leave his hi-tech career behind in order to teach math and computer science at GHIS. Assaf is an adored teacher and colleague and spearheaded the planting of a forest adjacent to GHIS.

“I believe the essence of education is to instill learning skills, strengthen the students’ self-confidence, and bolster their ability to communicate effectively.”

Assaf earned his B.A. in Finance and Business Management with a minor in Computer Science from Connecticut State University. He holds an M.A. in Leadership and Management from Tel Aviv University.

Tamar Eshel

Mathematics

Becoming a high school teacher was an unexpected professional diversion for Tamar, who prior to joining GHIS, was a statistics mentor at the Open University of Israel and a statistician at the College of Management Academic Studies in Rishon L’Tsiyon.

“Teaching a diverse group of students at GHIS has broadened my horizons and allowed me to put my values into action.” She has a reputation for being wholly devoted to her students.

Tamar earned her B.A. in Economics and Agriculture from the Hebrew University’s Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment in Rehovot, and her M.A. in Statistics from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

Nir Navon

Mathematics
Nir joined GHIS as a math teacher supporting individual students with their learning. This year he is expanding his role as a class teacher in the PDP and DP1 cohorts. Nir is transitioning into teaching having previously worked as an industry and management engineer.

Benny Tavory

Mentor

Benny’s professional path has taken many twists and turns; between periods in the security services he worked in agriculture, education, and industry on the kibbutz where he lived.

After retiring, Benny was looking for a new challenge. Living close to GHIS, he had heard about this unique school and offered his services as a mentor and personal tutor. He is deeply connected to the students, to whom he is wholly committed

Natalie Krasnostein

Theater

Natalie is a writer, artist, performer, psychodramatist and workshop facilitator originally from Melbourne. She has been involved in theater projects with Aboriginal and Jewish communities in Australia, and has run workshops in countries around the world.

“Joining GHIS to teach theater was a natural move, allowing me to fulfill my ideas and ideals while connecting with the country I now call home.”

Natalie has a B.Sc. in Psychology from Curtin University in Perth, a Diploma of Education from Victoria University in Melbourne, and is a graduate of John Bolton Theatre School.

Efrat Gal Shemesh

Visual Arts
Mentor

Efrat was co-founder of the Alfred Cooperative Institute for Art & Culture, and was the director of Rawart Gallery in Tel Aviv.

“Art is a tool to engage with issues of identity and self-expression, and to express political and social issues. The IB’s high-level curriculum enables the students to combine theory and practice as they examine and analyze the essence of art works.”

Efrat earned a B.A. in Art from Hamidrasha at Beit Berl, and an M.A. in Fine Arts from Utrecht School of Arts (HKU).

Dr. Josh Yarden

World Religions
Theory of Knowledge
Mentor

Josh grew up in the USA and completed high school in Jerusalem where he graduated from the International Institute for Youth Leaders. He first attended a seminar at Givat Haviva when he was 17. Over the years he has returned to Givat Haviva to study Hebrew, Arabic, and community leadership; facilitate Arab-Jewish encounters; and lead seminars for students from abroad.

“I’ve taught at boarding schools in Israel and the United States, led programs at camps, international study tours, and devoted thousands of hours to the professional development of early and mid-career educators. GHIS stands out as an opportunity to draw upon all of my experience to take part in building an amazing school.”

Josh earned a B.A. in Middle East Studies from McGill University, in Montreal, and an M.A. in History, from the University of Haifa. He holds a Ph.D. in Education, Culture and Society from the University of Pennsylvania.

Merav Geva

Biology

Prior to realizing that science education was her true calling, Merav had been working in scientific research as well as scientific writing. The experience she accumulated in research and industry is an asset that she brings to the classroom to share with her students.

‘Scientific literacy in general, and biology in particular, are essential to every high school graduate. GHIS and the IBDP encourage independent thinking, and provide a unique environment for teaching’

 

Merav earned her B.Sc. in Chemistry from Ben Gurion University and her M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Structural Biology from the Weizmann Institute of Science. She also holds a Teaching certificate from the Feinberg Graduate School of the Weizmann Institute.

Dotan Yarden

Music

English

Mentor

Dotan moved from Philadelphia after completing a bachelors degree in Music Education at Temple University to start the music program at GHIS which has since become a manifestation of Givat Haviva’s vision for a Shared Society. He also works as a mentor, hosts campus tours through the international department, and teaches English.

Nazira Abu Dbay Taha

Physics

Nazira Abu Dbay Taha, originally from Nazareth, proudly serve as a Physics teacher and lecturer. Her academic journey includes obtaining a B.Sc in Physics and Mathematics from Haifa University, followed by an M.Sc from the prestigious Weizmann Institute. Currently, She is proudly in pursuit of her Ph.D. at Ben Gurion University.

In addition to her academic endeavors, She is actively involved in the Ilan Ramon Youth Physics Center at Ben Gurion University. Here she has the privilege of imparting her knowledge, where she teaches Astronomy and guides students in the art of observing the night sky through telescopes.

Yamit Himmelfarb

Spanish

Yamit was born in Mexico and made the transformative move to Israel in 2010, With a deep passion for languages and cross-cultural communication, she has found her calling at GHIS.

Yamit’s proficiency as a Professional Interpreter has enabled her to bridge language gaps and foster understanding in various settings. Her work as an interpreter reflects her dedication to facilitating effective communication across borders, contributing to the success of international endeavors and partnerships.

Yamit’s background and experiences have enriched her ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes. In her roles at GHIS, she continues to cultivate connections between individuals and organizations, fostering collaboration on a global scale.

 

Carrie Golan

Therapeutic Counselor

Carrie has been working with international students in Israel for the last fifteen years. Prior to joining GHIS, Carrie was the mental health counselor for the international student population at Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. She also worked for many years as a drama therapist with young Israeli special-needs adults residing in group homes through the Kesher Association.

At GHIS, Carrie relishes the opportunity of counseling students from diverse backgrounds and creating a safe atmosphere for those who require additional support. She provides individual and group therapy, facilitates psychoeducational workshops, and supports the educational staff.

Carrie obtained her B.A. in Theater Performance from Marymount Manhattan College, her M.A. in Creative Arts and Drama Therapy from Haifa University and then went on to complete a three-year Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Psychotherapy program. In addition to her role at GHIS, she sees private clients and consults for organizations.

Rana Zahalka Younis

Educational Counselor

Rana is an experienced high school educational counselor and was the psychological counselor at the International School at Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. Previously, she was the director of the Youth Education Unit in Ar’ara Municipality.

Among her many different positions, Rana is most proud of her role guiding teachers and principals in the City Without Violence program. “The aim is to educate children and youth about alternatives to violent behavior by providing them with tools and activities which stress the importance of human dignity, tolerance and coexistence.”

Rana earned her B.A in Behavioral Science and Psychology from Max Stern Emek Israel College, and an M.Ed. in Educational Counselling from Beit Berl, Haifa.

Dr. Jonathan (Yoni) Kaplan

University Guidance Counselor

Yoni has spent over 40 years working with international students in Israel as a teacher, administrator and institutional leader. In the past he served as the deputy director of the Institute for Youth Leaders from Abroad, the founding principal of Israel’s first Virtual High School, ORT Aviv, and the director of undergraduate studies at the Rothberg International School of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, which included overseeing undergraduate admissions. Most recently he was vice provost at the Rothberg School.

Over the years, Yoni has taught Jewish and Israeli history at the Hebrew University, Jerusalem University College, the Schechter Institute and various other academic institutions in Israel.

Yoni has a B.A. in Education and Jewish History, an M.A. and PhD in Jewish History from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, as well as a teaching certificate for secondary schools.

Rom Idan

Campus Life Associate

Rom grew up in Jerusalem, where he was exposed to a diverse and unique society. During high school Rom spent three transformative years as a youth counselor in the Hebrew scouts movement in different roles, and was the head of several community initiatives and projects.

As part of his civil national service, Rom was involved in a technological nonprofit whose goal was to develop technological solutions for the third sector and to shape future young leaders. His journey also included roles such as a study assistant in a communication class, a group leader at a US camp and a counselor at a summer camp for young adults with special needs.

Rom is interested in Eastern philosophies and loves spending time in nature.

Ilia Sergeev

Community Educator

Ilia is originally from Russia. He came to Israel in 2022 to attend a MASA program and decided to immigrate in 2023.

Ilia has two degrees in Buisiness Administration and Project Management. His passion, however, lies in education for children and youth. Since he likes different countries, cultures and being part of a community, GHIS is a perfect place for him.

In his free time, you will generally find Ilia doing sports activities, his favorite being martial arts.

Clémence Cougourdan

Campus Life Associate

Clemence is French – a creative and artistic person.

Her interests include philosophy, well being, and educational systems.

” I like to spend time with others who don’t necessarily have the same opinions as me. When travelling, I realized for the first time how lucky I was to grow up in a country where humans rights are a given. Everybody deserves to know how it is to think freely and be respected.

Now I’m looking forward to be part of a multicultural project, to share and expand our minds together.”

Ketsia Mayenne

Community Educator

Meet Ketsia, a 23-year-old from Orléans, France, who has been an invaluable member of the GHIS community for over a year as a dedicated Community Educator.


With a profound passion for education, particularly among teenagers, Ketsia’s journey in this field commenced right after high school. Simultaneously, she pursued her studies in International Law, French and English literature, further enriching her knowledge and skills.


Beyond her professional life, Ketsia’s heart beats for reading, writing, and music. She thrives on engaging in profound conversations and cherishing diverse cultures. Her wanderlust leads her to explore new places, creating unforgettable memories with each adventure.

Shira

Volunteer

Shira is excited to spend her gap year at GHIS!

From the age of seven to eleven Shira lived in Brazil, an experience that gave her a love of meeting new people and cultures.

During high school, Shira volunteered in youth movements and majored in film and diplomacy. In her free time she enjoys sewing, knitting, film, writing and reading.

Aviv Barnea

Volunteer

Aviv lives in the village of Beit Meir in Israel.

She studied at an agricultural boarding school in the north of the country, loves theater and swimming.

Aviv is sociable and likes to meet new people. She took a gap year between boarding school and the army to join the boarding team at GHIS.

Elina Ibramigov

Volunteer

Adar Tamir

Volunteer

Adar is from Batzra where he recently finished high school. He is looking forward to spending his gap year volunteer at GHIS .

Adar was a part of a farming movement most of his life. He likes to play guitar and he has great affection for animals.  He loves sports and played basketball professionally and tennis in his spare time.

At GHIS, Adar is very excited to increase his knowledge and can’t wait to get to know all the students

Malte Schäkel

Volunteer

Malte comes from Germany where he recently finished high school and will now spend his voluntary year at GHIS.

Passionate about music, Malte enjoys both playing and listening to it. He has a particular affinity for saxophone, often participating in big bands in his hometown. His interests extend to sports such as tennis, soccer, and overall fitness.

Malte is really interested in social work especially with children and youth, and loves to experience and get to know new cultures, influencing and inspiring people.


Shiri Licht

Volunteer

Shiri comes to GHIS from Kibbutz Ramat Yohanan.

Growing up, she was in the youth movement “Hmahnot Haolim” as a group leader. Also, she volunteered at Magen David Adom In Israel as a first aider.

Shiri has been involved in directing professional theater for several years, She studied psychology and sociology and is excited, through GHIS. to enrich her knowledge and abilities from the people around her.

Amit Adar

Volunteer

Amit lives in a small village of Shechania in the north of Israel.

Amit has been in Hanoar Haoved youth’s movement. He loves to get to know new people and religions and travel the world.

Amit is really looking forward to this year at GHIS