Cracking the Glass Ceiling at the Ben-Gurion University

Few are the meaningful moments one remembers well and are a true turning point in life. Last month, young women from the "Shal'on" School in Kiryat-Gat, who take part in Kol Israel Haverim's program "Cracking the Glass Ceiling" experienced such a happening at the Ben-Gurion University, which will stay with them for a long time.

One of the highlights of the program, which promotes young women to science studies, is the volunteer lineup which is rapidly growing. There are currently around 150 volunteers, 20 of whom are high-tech women entrepreneurs. These impressive and committed entrepreneurs have become a "big sister" community for the young "Sodkot" participants.

As part of the program, young women from the 8th grade nationwide are adopted by these volunteers, and together they build websites dedicated to women scientists in history, on a WIX platform. The website building aspect was developed for the program by Ms. Hamutal Meridor, a high-tech entrepreneur herself, and a member of the program's steering committee.

In the "Shal'on" High School, the volunteering entrepreneur is Ms. Yonat Harel-Price. Yonat is extremely committed to her group, and initiates extra-curricular activities for the participants herself. Last month, she initiated a visit to the Ben-Gurion University in Be'er Sheva. "The visit was exciting, empowering and unusually delightful" Yonat reported. First, the young women spoke to Professor Rivka Karmi, the university president, and with Professor Iris Shay, her advisor for promotion of women in the academy. The conversation, which was about life's challenges and choices, was open and candid. The participants heard the professors' personal stories, and were exposed to the important choices they themselves have made in life. The professors, leading by example, conveyed the message that one must aspire, dream and dare, empowered the young women, and gave them a glimpse of the academic world of self-fulfillment. Following the meeting, the young women presented the website they built with Yonat, which won them first prize in a Facebook competition. "I have no doubt that this project will change the lives of many young, talented women" summarized Professor Karmi.

The young women also met a group of students from various disciplines for an unmediated talk which gave them important information on their options, and showed them that higher education is important and enjoyable. "We mustn't give up" said one of the young women. "We must aim high and achieve what we want".

Cracking the Glass Ceiling Facebook page can be reached in the following link:

www.facebook.com/CrackingTheGlassCeiling