WAS-NS Kids in Artsbridge 3-Week Leadership Program

For the last several years young people from Wahat al-Salam - Neve Shalom have been taking part in the activities of Artsbridge Institute, both as program participants and as counsellors.

Artsbridge (as says its website) "uses the visual arts, film, and dialogue to empower American, Israeli, and Palestinian youth. With partner sites in the United States, Israel, and the West Bank, Artsbridge fosters understanding, curiosity, and creativity. With these skills, we prepare our students to become leaders in the quest for a brighter future in and outside of their own communities."

Our experience with working with Artsbridge, both at home in Wahat al-Salam - Neve Shalom and in their annual summer programs, confirms these goals. Youth from WAS-NS have taken part in the Artsbridge program from its inception and the program has helped to grow their leadership skills.

This year the Institute is running a 3-week program on the Buxton High School campus in Williamstown Massachussetts for Israelis, Palestinians and Americans. An especially large contingent is there from WAS-NS, with Nadine Nashef and Karin Shbeta joining the staff, and younger members Ramez, Adam, Yasmin, Bissan and Mika joining as program participants.

On July 31 some of the visual art, films and music that the young people have produced will be presented at a showcase event for everyone to enjoy. See the Facebook event for more information.