Amid rocket sirens and deep loss, a remarkable story of unity, healing, and resilience has taken root. At the Torani Campus High School in Ashkelon, a student-run venture in the school’s industrial design program—led by Levi Bar Zohar—is giving new life to charred trees from the Gaza Envelope. Together with their teachers, students handcraft mezuzahs from the burnt wood, turning destruction into meaning.
Mezuzahs with a Mission: Diplomatic Gifts from Israel
The initiative has drawn attention both nationally and internationally. Among its notable supporters are the Ministry of Heritage and the Government Tourism Corporation, which purchased 30 mezuzahs to be given as diplomatic gifts. The Eshkol Regional Council also ordered 200 mezuzahs to present to residents returning to their homes.
More Than a Ritual Object
“This isn’t just a mezuzah—it tells the story of the Jewish people,” said Itay Granek, Director-General of the Ministry of Heritage. “It symbolizes our ability to turn pain into hope and destruction into renewal. Anyone who sees this mezuzah in a consulate will immediately understand the spirit and strength of those living near Gaza.”
The mezuzahs have been delivered to diplomats around the world—including to Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations—as part of a broader effort to share the story of southern Israel in a moving and meaningful way.
A Living Symbol of Jewish Strength
Tzach Saar, Deputy Consul General in New York, shared: “This mezuzah stands as living proof of the resilience of the Jewish people. It tells the story of young people from the Gaza region who chose to create beauty from the ashes.”
Elad Ehrenfeld, CEO of the Government Tourism Corporation, added: “The link between remembrance, heritage, and tourism is especially important today. We’re seeing how heritage and memorial sites are becoming pilgrimage destinations—places that connect people to the Israeli story in a tangible, emotional way. We call this ‘memory tourism.’”
Practical Tools for the Next Generation
Avraham Abovitz, a student in the project, explained: “I was drawn to this because it taught me life skills that most schools don’t—how to manage money, work with banks, develop a strong work ethic. That’s rare. I’m in charge of marketing, but I also help make the mezuzahs when needed.”
‘Shutafim’ by GenbiZ: Education with Purpose
Through the “Shutafim” program by GenbiZ, teens across Israel—especially from underserved regions—learn to build and manage real businesses. Alongside practical workforce skills, students also gain a deep sense of purpose and connection to Jewish heritage. In this case, creativity and mission come together to transform trauma into a message of hope.
Today, 48 schools from all backgrounds across the country participate in the program. Students run actual businesses—handling accounting, production, marketing, and sales—guided by both educational and business mentors.
