What is Shvilim?
Shvilim is a 10‑month leadership program initiated by the Jewish Community of Oslo (DMT), designed to combine immersive experiences in Israel, academic studies, and international travel. Bringing together young adults from across Europe, Israel, North America, and beyond, Shvilim creates a pluralistic community where participants live, learn, and grow through dialogue and shared exploration.
What makes Shvilim distinctive is its commitment to real‑world dialogue and building bridges across cultural and religious divides. Participants engage in open discussions, share diverse perspectives, and gain hands‑on experience in Jewish communities in Israel, Europe, and North America. This dynamic environment helps them develop a deeper understanding of their role as global citizens and future leaders.
The program is tailored for curious, open minded young adults who want to strengthen their Jewish identity while preparing to lead in today’s complex world. Most of the year is spent in Israel, complemented by studies at the University of Oslo and travels to Jewish communities worldwide, where participants meet directly with people and organizations shaping the global Jewish landscape.
At its core, Shvilim embraces a vision of Jewish life that is rooted in tradition yet open to the world—committed to dialogue, justice, and responsibility. By the end of the program, participants leave with the confidence and clarity to lead with purpose, navigate complexity, and foster understanding across cultures and in every aspect of their lives.
Our Story
Founded in Norway in 2015, Shvilim began as a Scandinavian initiative with the goal of inspiring young Jews to live meaningful, strong and engaged lives, and to face the world with curiosity, courage and care. Since then, the program has grown into a vibrant international community, welcoming participants from across the globe.
As Shvilim expanded, key partnerships and collaborations were established to ensure both quality and stability. The program is made possible through close cooperation with the Upper Galilee Leadership Academy and Kol Ami. For the academic component, the Jewish community of Oslo (DMT) partners directly with the University of Oslo, offering university-level courses on Judaism, identity, ethics, and intercultural competence. Shvilim also cooperates with leading organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) in the U.S., as well as various Jewish communities across Europe, enriching participants’ experience with diverse perspectives and real-world engagement.
We aim for our alumni to strengthen Jewish life, champion Jewish values, stand up against hate, and build bridges within and beyond the Jewish people. Many of our graduates are already serving the Jewish people in leadership roles and through deep community engagement wherever they live. In Norway, alumni continue as Jewish Pathfinders — building relationships in schools and public institutions, fostering dialogue, promoting inclusion, and representing Jewish life to the broader society.
