My name is Jennifer Borik, I was raised in Beer-Sheva, in southern Israel. Currently, I am a third-year law student (LL.B) at Sapir Academic College, located in Sderot.

My parents both immigrated to Israel from the former Soviet Union, driven by their love for Israel and Zionist values. My father worked as a farmer in the city of Ma'alot-Tarshiha, and later enlisted in the IDF, serving in a combat unit. My mother came to Israel through a program for outstanding Jewish students, and by the end decided to make "Aliyah". Both my parents had relatives persecuted in the Holocaust, and my great-grandfather fought against the Nazis in World War II, earning numerous operational awards. My family instilled in us a deep love for the State of Israel and encouraged us to be actively involved in the community. For them, building a life in Israel was a dream come true and a sign of victory for their families. 

Growing up in Beer-Sheva, I experienced war firsthand and aspired to serve in the IDF to contribute best I could to my country. I enlisted in the Operations Division, commanded soldiers, and established a new command and control center dedicated to protecting Israeli settlements. I was honored as Israel's 71st Independence Day outstanding soldier and received an operational appreciation certificate and commendation. Both my sister, a combat soldier and platoon commander, proudly served in the IDF.

After my military service, I became interested in advocacy for Israel. I participated in a Jewish Agency delegation to the United States, strengthening ties with Jewish communities. I then pursued law school in Sderot, inspired by the college's vision to promote entrepreneurship and development in the Negev.

Life in southern Israel and 150 days of reserve duty over the past year taught me a lot about myself and our generation's ingenuity, entrepreneurship, creativity, friendship, unity and resilience. In the face of great challenges and darkness our generation has proven itself tremendously, from assisting the elderly and needy during COVID-19 to supporting the soldiers and evacuees during the ongoing war.

As a representative of Israel's youth, I aspire to promote equality for people with disabilities in accordance with UN Agenda 2030, Sustainable Development Goal 10. The war has significantly increased in the number of physically and mentally disabled individuals, many of whom are young people. I believe Israel's spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation can and will help integrate the disabled into society, both in Israel and globally.

My name is Maya Shany. I was Raised in Modi'in Maccabim Reut, I am a second-year Biology student at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, where I integrate my scientific training with a lifelong commitment to leadership, education, and public diplomacy.

My dedication to bridging cultures and perspectives began early; having spent part of my childhood in the United States, I grew up in a home where international diplomacy and global community work were part of the daily conversation. This unique upbringing instilled in me a deep-seated drive to share the "real" Israel with the world—showcasing the innovative, talented, and committed people who define our country beyond the headlines.

My leadership roots run deep in the Scouts (Tzofim) movement in Modi'in, where I led and instructed various groups, including our movement's prestigious annual instructor course. This dedication to representation followed me to New Jersey, where I served as a founding member of a Jewish Agency "ShinShinim" mission. During that year, I focused on sharing the Israeli narrative through education and dialogue, strengthening the bonds between Israel and global communities.

In the Israeli Air Force, I served as a Flight Simulator Instructor, a role that demanded technical precision and high interpersonal sensitivity. After my service, I brought these skills to New York City, working as a Flight Simulator Instructor to facilitate leadership and strategy workshops for diverse international audiences. This experience allowed me to bridge the civilian, military, and international spheres while showcasing Israeli ingenuity firsthand.

I aspire to promote Israel’s image as a "Startup Nation," highlighting our vibrancy and innovation, particularly in the field of technology. I believe that fostering scientific cooperation and sharing our technological advancements, especially in Green Tech, are vital tools for promoting global stability, security, and peace. My vision is centered on the "One Health" approach—recognizing the vital link between human health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. I am committed to bringing back global inspiration and knowledge to help advance the public conversation on sustainable development within Israel, ensuring that the voices of the next generation lead the way toward a more resilient and just future.