Nesiah Israel Trip
A once-in-a-lifetime journey to Israel that inspires identity, exploration and connection. It is a dynamic, 4-week educational journey designed for Year 10 and 11 students from non-Jewish schools across NSW, ACT and QLD.
Participants experience Israel’s land, history and culture in a deeply meaningful way — connecting their Jewish heritage to real sites.
What will you get out of the program?
- A personal connection to Israel’s land, culture, people and history
- Life-long Jewish friendships with peers from across Australia
- Emotional and personal growth as you explore your Jewish identity
- A highly structured and supported program, led by experienced Australian and Israeli educators and madrichim
- Pre-trip activities to build community and prepare for the experience. Keep an eye on our events page.
- Backing from the Jewish community, school principals and parents — a program trusted and cherished for years
How To Apply?
Ready to start your journey to Israel? The application form takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.
We can’t wait to take this journey with you!
"The 4 weeks I spent with BJE were amazing. I was able to experience Israel in a way tours don’t offer. We explored the entire country, visiting staple places like Masada, and Tel Aviv, and less common areas like Tzfat and Zichron Ya’akov. Israel is such a magical place, and to be there exploring, and making friends with other Jewish Aussie students, was so worth it."
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"While it may sound cliché, it’s true that the BJE Israel program was one of the best experiences of my life. Although I’ve visited Israel many times before to see family, coming on this trip as a Jewish student allowed me to see the country through a new lens and truly experience all it has to offer. I made lifelong friends, unforgettable memories, and deepened my connection to the Holy Land. The madrichim were incredible, the teachers were engaging, and I honestly couldn’t praise this trip more highly. If you get the chance – go!”
"I was overwhelmed by the history and significance of these places, and I felt a deep sense of connection to my Jewish heritage. It was incredible to be surrounded by so many other Jews, all of us united by our shared history and traditions."
"Every place we visited either challenged, moved, or inspired me in a way that no other place has done. Regardless of whether you go into Nesiah with lots of close friends or you don't know anyone, you will come out of it with friends for life, with Jewish teenagers from all corners of the globe, I had the most incredible conversations about Judaism and life in our own home countries."
"Going on Nesiah in 2018 is what inspired me to become a madrich. I have so many amazing memories from that trip, all shaped by the incredible staff who guided us on such an unforgettable journey. The connections you build and the memories you make with the kids genuinely last a lifetime — and knowing you’ve made a real impact in their lives is one of the most rewarding feelings."
"I have never been more inspired and connected to my Jewish culture, community, and myself than for the 37 days I spent in Israel on the BJE Nesiah trip. There is no place in the world quite like Israel—no place where you can be driving through beautiful terrain, and your tour guide will be able to tell you a story from outside your window almost every single drive."
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"I was given an opportunity to see Israel through a new lens. I got to volunteer at “Save a Child’s Heart,” eat traditional Bedouin food in the desert, dramatically improve my Hebrew, but above all, see the vastness of the land and the people. We’re colourful, vibrant, kind and capable. I’m proud to be Jewish and to be a zionist and it’s thanks to BJE."
Meet Our 2025 Nesiah Leaders
Meet the talented professionals behind our organisation.
BJE's head of Jewish Life for five years, Ronnen, has led programs to Israel for many years. A senior staff member and accredited educator, he is committed to student safety and acts as a constant communication point for parents throughout the trip. With a strong background in Jewish studies and youth engagement, he brings warmth, clarity, and insight to his teaching. Ronnen is known for creating inclusive spaces where students are inspired to think critically about their values, history and connection to Israel. Ronnen is very excited to be leading the program again in 2025.
Idan is studying Cognitive & Brain Science and Data Science at Macquarie University while working as the Youth Engagement Coordinator. He has been involved with HaTzofim Sydney since 2016 and participated in a gap year program in Israel volunteering in a youth detention facility. This experience deepened his passion for mentoring teenagers and helping them connect with their identity and community.
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Ruby works at The Hub and has worked with children and teens for many years across multiple schools. Former School Captain at Randwick Girls High School and graduate of the 2022/23 Nesiah Israel Program, she brings an authentic student perspective to her leadership role. Ruby organises events and camps for primary and high school students while studying International Relations and Jewish Civilisation Thought & Culture at University of Sydney.
Jared studied a Bachelor of Construction Project Management at UTS. He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening the Sydney Jewish community, a passion that began during his high school years and continues at BJE where he runs the Youth Engagement programs. Jared also volunteers at Friendship Circle and StandWithUs.
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Uri lives in Kibbutz Gan Shmuel near Hadera together with his family. He majors in computer science and music. Uri is a member and leader of the ‘HashomerHatza’ir’ youth movement and works to connect younger children with the older members of the kibbutz through joint activities. Uri is passionate about music. He plays the drums, guitar and bass guitar and performs in music ensembles and bands. Uri loves to teach about Israel’s diverse and beautiful nature parks, often hiking through the countryside to bring the landscape and its stories to life.
Liri lives in Tel Aviv, the eldest of 4 sisters. Born in Israel, but lived in the US for 7 years. She believes this move taught her about independence, how to adapt quickly and the importance of staying true to her identity. Liri is extremely passionate about her involvement in the Tzofim movement where she is a leader involved in training the next generation of youth leaders. She is curious, enjoys being involved in her community and loves meeting new people. Liri spent a Summer in New Jersey as a counsellor for pre-school aged children.
Yarden served as a youth counsellor for younger children on his kibbutz and participated in the ‘Kav HaZinuk’ program, focused on leadership development, advocacy and promoting values. He was also selected for the ‘Unistream’ program, focusing on technological and business entrepreneurship, and plays guitar and drums, performing in bands and orchestras. Yarden offers a friendly face and support to the program during a year of service in Sydney.
Yahli is excited to be a Nesiah leader offering students an authentic Israeli perspective throughout the trip during completing her Shnat Sherut (year of service in Australia) with BJE. Yahli has spent some time growing up in Sydney and moved to Israel with her family, aged 11. She is the eldest of 4 siblings and is majoring in Theatre and Computer Science. Yahli has held leadership roles with ‘Tzofim’ (Israeli scouts) and has travelled the US as part of a delegation performing and teaching to schools across the country.
Nesiah Gallery
Explore our vibrant program highlights through photos.
The BJE Nesiah Israel Program is supported by
Participants Portals
Already registered or looking for detailed information? Access packing lists, information night recordings and trip resources here.
Year 10 Students
Year 11 Students
