Shvilim
A Gap Year for Global Jewish Leadership
What is Shvilim?
Shvilim is a 10-month international gap year program for Jewish young adults (ages 18–20) who want to grow as engaged individuals, explore their identity, and build bridges across cultures, communities, and worldviews.
Rooted in Jewish values and global connection, Shvilim brings together a diverse group of participants from Europe, Israel, North America, and beyond, for a shared journey through Israel, Norway, the U.S., and Europe. Throughout the year participants:
Along the way, you build deep connections, lead with purpose, and gain the tools to make a difference – as a Jew and as a leader.
- Live and learn in an Israeli mechina
- Study Jewish history, identity and dialogue at the University of Oslo
- Volunteer and visit different communities abroad
- Attend the ADL’s Never Is Now Summit in New York
- Plan and lead educational journeys across Europe
Along the way, you build deep connections, lead with purpose, and gain the tools to make a difference – as a Jew and as a leader.
Our Journey
Israel
Kibbutz Amir
Norway
Oslo
Israel
Kibbutz Amir
USA
Jewish Organizations
Europe
Jewish Communities
Israel
Kibbutz Amir
When
- Length
10 Months
- Start date
September 2026
- End date
June 2027
Where
- Participants
20
- Location
All over the world!
- Language
English
*With Hebrew lessons
Testimonials
Yuval Regev
“Shvilim has given me tools that are crucial to my role as a bridge builder in my personal relations and in society. I also gained memories and friendship that will last a lifetime.”
Norway, 2015/2016
Shirli Henriksen
“Shvilim was the most impactful year of my life so far. The fun adventures of the Jewish world, the challenges and the many diverse lessons learned came together in such a meaningful way. Buckle up and hold on tight, cuz its quite a ride. one that I would, without a doubt, do again if I could.”
Denmark 2021/2022
Maya Blackstone
"Shvilim was a once in a life time experience. I was able to engage with people on a global scale. I explored what leadership was to me and now I’m able to bring everything I’ve learnt back to my community at home."
UK, 2023/2024
Helene Malting Stray
“Shvilim helped me understand who I am and what I want in life. I had time and tools to help me understand myself. I also understood that my next home would be in Israel.”
Norway, 2022/2023
Jonathan Marcus-Dascal
"In Shvilim I understood what it means to practice leadership through action, apply the tools I’ve received and utilize the power of a group. I was able to grasp the importance of unity between the Jewish people, especially with the challenges we deal with today.”
Israel, 2024/2025