2026 Jerusalema program

The Jerusalem Model founded by the Leichtag Foundation, is rooted in the belief that the city's diverse human fabric is a unique asset. It supports local changemakers working to improve life in Jerusalem. The Model brings together activists from across the city's neighborhoods and communities, representing Jerusalem’s social and cultural diversity. It offers a unifying and empowering space to strengthen civil society.
Through shared learning, new partnerships, and professional development, the Model helps expand the impact of its members. It offers training, dialogue, and networking that equip activists with tools, inspiration, and meaningful connections to shape a better future for Jerusalem

Jerusalema is a public local leadership program by the Jerusalem Model of the Lichtag Foundation, supported by philanthropic partners. The program is for influential Jerusalemites from all sectors, engaged in civic action and seeking to expand their impact on the city's public sphere. It provides a space for learning, collaboration, and skill development while fostering new approaches to action in Jerusalem’s diverse landscape.

Participants will gain tools to scale their initiatives and drive systemic change through cross-community partnerships.

Click here to apply

Why now?

In the past decade, the foundation has worked to strengthen Jerusalem’s civil society. Through deep engagement on the ground, a clear need emerged to build a public leadership reserve and expand opportunities for leaders seeking to grow in their civic engagement.

Why in Jerusalem?

In the past decade, the foundation has worked to strengthen Jerusalem’s civil society. Through deep Jerusalem serves as a cultural cradle for diverse religions and communities, with a unique social fabric that can sometimes be seen as a source of conflict and division. The program will explore how this diversity presents opportunities for social growth and serves as a foundation for partnerships that bridge communities and sectors. It will focus on the practical aspects of working within neighborhoods, communities, and the public sphere.

What does the program include?

Jerusalem City Dynamics

The program will feature lectures on topics like strategic planning and digital media, as well as discussions on complex public dilemmas. Participants will also engage in learning tours of innovative models from Israel and abroad, and meet with leading social leaders, academics, business professionals, and local government representatives.

Inspiring Learning

Familiarity with Jerusalem’s diversity, its various communities, and an understanding of urban planning mechanisms, mapping the field of civic engagement, and reviewing the culture and norms of local governance. government elections and more.

Personal Development

Participants will receive personal and professional guidance, alongside a distinguished group of peers who support one another in their journey of influence and civic engagement, while refining their identity as Jerusalemite leaders committed to serving the broader public good.

The program will begin in January 2026 and conclude in June 2026.

The meetings will take place on Wednesdays from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM

During the program, there will be two seminars: a two-day seminar with overnight stay, and a one-week seminar abroad

Participants will receive personal professional development consulting from the program team

The program is fully subsidized, except for a registration fee of 1,100 NIS

Following the program, participants will be invited to join an Alumni community with colleagues from diverse backgrounds who share common aspirations and goals.

Participation in all meetings is mandatory

Proven experience of at least 3 years in public action

Managment experience in public, social or buisness sector

Strong belief in people, partnership between communities and social diversity as primary values.

Living in Jerusalem

Following the initial screening process, we will invite the most fitting candidates to a personal interview

We believe everyone deserves a chance. If you don’t meet the requirements, send us a short personal note — we’ll be happy to consider it.

Registration is subject to availability

What if I’m concerned that my participation in the program will be associated with a particular political position?

This is a program for Jerusalem’s future public reserve and was constructed with Jerusalem’s complexities and assets in mind. The program combines a perception of the common good with getting to know the different communities in the city, and provides professional tools to change the face of the city

How is this program different from other leadership programs?

The program has no political identity and presents a wide spectrum of views, perceptions and realties. We take special precautions. No marketing material will be uploaded to any platform without the consent of the participants

Does the program cost money?

We charge a good-faith fee for participation in the program 1,100 NIS, no extra costs

What is the selection process?

Stage 1 - Registration period until the End of November

Stage 2 – Interviews and initial answers - Mid-December

Stage 3 – Signing the contract and payment. first meeting in end of December

Registration until November 26th

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Hours

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Click here to apply