My name is Maya, I’m 22 years old, and until a few weeks ago, I lived in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel. This year, I joined Makom to work as a shlicha (emissary) on behalf of the Jewish Agency of Israel.

A little about myself… I have two sisters, Noa (24) and Mika (16), and my parents, Shlomi and Ester. I was born in Israel, but my grandparents are from Morocco, Iraq, and Israel. My family has lived in Jerusalem for ten generations. In middle and high school, I attended the Academy of Music and Dance in Jerusalem, where I studied as a singer. For three years, I also volunteered as a counselor for Krembo Wings, the first and only youth movement in Israel for children and youth with complex special needs.

I served in the air force as a course commander for two years. After my service, I went to Uganda to teach art in a school for two months. I planned to continue my studies in art, but with the recent outbreak of war in Israel, I decided to return. I briefly began studying at Bezalel Academy of Arts, but something didn’t feel right. I realized there were bigger things to focus on, so I decided to put my university studies on hold to take on a shlichut (mission).

Coming here to Makom is a great honor for me. I feel fortunate to connect with different people and share something of my experience as an Israeli woman. I hope to bring a perspective of Israel that highlights its beauty, rich culture, and diverse population, beyond the complexities often seen from the outside.

I look forward to learning about the organization, meeting incredible people, and working with a wonderful team.