June 16: SPACE Program

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 June 16: SPACE Program 

The day that the whole ENP office has been preparing for has finally come, SPACE program day. Once we arrived at our destination in Jerusalem, we began preparing for what’s to come. The first task was to travel around the building and ask the 9th and 10th grade students what their names were to put on a name tag. This way everyone is more familiar with each other and there is no room to forget names. During this time, a delicious meal was provided. From schnitzel to pita and humus the menu was endless! 

As the meal came to a close it was time to transition into the activities me and my fellow interns planned to do with the Ethiopian adolescence to allow us to build a bond with the students as well as put smiles on their faces. While playing different games such as Names and Dance Moves, Finding Commonalities, The Wind Blows, Indian Chief, Two Truths and a Lie and Simon Says the students found themselves to be having a good time. They were getting carried away with the games where they became competitive. Not only was it fulfilling to provide entertainment, but it was also fulfilling to be able to form a connection with the students. After the marathon of games, we were off to a presentation given by the ENP.

The presentation began with wishing for a safe return for the hostages, remembering the fallen heroes, and recognizing those who are fighting in the current war. Afterwards, the sponsors of the event; Ethiopian National Project, The Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh, and the Sudilovsky Busel family was appreciated. With every presentation comes speakers. This one included Roni Akale, the Director General, Grace Rodnitzki, the Director of International Relations, and Penina Shiffman, the International Relations Associate. During the speeches, the awards and opportunities were presented. For instance, one incredible opportunity is the chance for 25 Ethiopian students to travel to North America to embark on a fantastic journey to summer camp. They will be able to speak English, make new friends, learn more about themselves and so much more. Because of the generous donors, students were rewarded for all different outstanding skills that makes them extraordinary. One being the Advocacy and Leadership Merit Scholars award. Another being the Bridges Merit Scholars and Ambassadors award for excelling in English. The amount of awards given left me in awe for two reasons. The first being how intelligent these students are and how generous the donors are to give the Ethiopian community a chance to thrive. I was also touched by the fact that myself and the other interns were recognized which illustrated how valued we truly are at ENP. Moving on from the high school age group, the medical students were applauded for their hard work and big dreams. To close the ceremony, the Hatikvah was sung. It was a fantastic, loving, and joyous experience. I can’t wait to attend another SPACE Program!

-Shari Spiegel

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