In a year marked by unparalleled challenges in Israel, ORT’s annual leadership conference provided a vibrant platform for education leaders to engage with pressing issues in education and society. This year’s theme explored the intersection of personal resilience, technological advancements, and the role of education in fostering social cohesion amid Israel’s evolving reality.
A Dual-Focus for Challenging Times
The conference was split into two impactful sessions, each addressing key aspects of education’s role in a rapidly changing world. The first session, held at Amdocs headquarters in Ra’anana, examined mental resilience in the technological era. The second, set to take place in February 2025 at Intel’s offices in Kiryat Gat, will explore how the high-tech industry can strengthen social unity in Israel.
These sessions reflect ORT’s commitment to equipping educators and network managers with tools to navigate complexities brought by societal shifts, emphasizing education’s transformative power during times of uncertainty.
Timora Shiri, ORT’s Deputy CEO and Head of Education and Operations, highlighted in her keynote address the inseparable link between personal resilience and a healthy society. “Education is the anchor of every community,” she said, emphasizing the need for adaptability and strength during crises. “Our mission goes beyond teaching—it’s about healing, uniting, and instilling hope for a better future.”
Technology Bridging Gaps
Harel Gevaon, CEO of Amdocs Israel, showcased how his company has embraced diversity and social responsibility, particularly during the recent conflict. Sharing their extraordinary response to the October 7th crisis, Gevaon described how Amdocs evacuated its employees from vulnerable areas like Sderot, establishing temporary housing and workspaces to ensure their safety and continuity. Notably, Amdocs developed a unique system to track displaced youth, keeping them connected and safe—a project that actually saved lives.
Exploring the New Reality
Attendees were captivated by a lecture from Dr. Gal Yaavetz of Bar-Ilan University titled “A Fake Culture: Disinformation, Anxiety, and Social Resilience in Times of War.” Dr. Yaavetz shared insights from his research, highlighting how the war has shifted Israelis’ media consumption habits, with a significant move toward platforms like Telegram. His findings underscored the dual-edged sword of digital information in shaping public perception and resilience.
Practical Tools and Inspiration
The conference concluded with interactive workshops on topics such as leadership under pressure, phototherapy, and yoga therapy. A panel of experts, including leaders from Vivid a HighTech company specializing in mental health, and the IDF’s Technological Corps, provided additional inspiration by exploring resilience from diverse perspectives.
ORT’s CEO, Raz Frohlich, closed the event with a powerful call to action: “As educators, we are the bedrock of rebuilding Israeli society. Our mission is not only to teach but to heal, unite, and restore hope. Together, we will create a future rooted in resilience and unity.”
Looking Ahead
This year’s leadership conference was more than a meeting of minds—it was a testament to the strength of educators facing extraordinary challenges. ORT Israel remains steadfast in its vision: to build a thriving, resilient society powered by values, technology, and innovation.