We are thrilled to share exciting news from the recent Youth Business Innovation Conference, organized by the "Shutafim" (Partnership) Program. This annual event serves as a platform to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and achievements of young students from vocational schools across the country. Among them were the remarkable students from Dror Israel's vocational schools for youth at risk, who showcased their innovative business initiatives.
Since its inception in 2016, the Shutafim Program has been a collaborative effort between Dror Israel and the Ministry of Labor, encompassing vocational schools nationwide. As part of their curriculum, students in vocational schools develop and operate their own businesses, creating diverse products and ventures that align with their respective fields of study. These products are then offered to the public, generating revenue that goes back to the students and further supports the growth and development of their businesses.
With 35 participating businesses from Jewish and Arab vocational schools throughout the country, the conference provided a vibrant and inspiring environment. The event brought together businesses from different schools, each presenting their unique products developed under the guidance of their dedicated teachers. Following the product presentations, a competition was held, offering funding opportunities to the winning projects, enabling students to turn their dreams into reality.
This year, one of the awards went to a project by the Sound Engineering track at Dror Israel's Tel Aviv-Yafo High School. The students decided to establish a community performance venue, complete with a professional sound studio. Zach Kaplan, an educator from the school, mentored the project, providing guidance and support.
The conference also featured investment committees, where esteemed mentors from the business community, including CEOs and executives from leading companies, participated. Additionally, a panel of industry leaders provided a platform for students in managerial roles to share their experiences and answer questions from their peers. Informative sessions were held on topics such as youth branding, cooperatives, labor rights, and promoting women in the workforce in the Arab society.
We were honored to have distinguished guests from the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Education, other school networks, and the business community attend the conference. Their presence and support further emphasized the significance of this event in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among youth and creating a pathway to a successful future.
At Dror Israel, we take immense pride in the accomplishments of our students. Their dedication, creativity, and perseverance are a testament to their immense potential. We are committed to empowering them and providing them with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape.
The Innovation Conference on Youth Employment serves as a testament to the positive impact that vocational education and entrepreneurial initiatives can have on shaping the future of our youth. We look forward to sharing more success stories and updates from the Shutafim Program as we continue to empower young minds and inspire a new generation of leaders.
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