In days when daily life moves between sirens, rockets, and shelters, it is easy to be drawn into a challenging routine. Yet within this complexity, a moment of light and exceptional international connection took place.

Today, the second Zoom meeting of the international “Young Ambassadors” project was held – a joint initiative of the Mashmaut Center, Kiryat Motzkin Foreign Relations Department, and “Yehonatan” Junior-High School. The meeting connected three worlds: Kiryat Motzkin, Płońsk in Poland (its twin city), and Ternopil in Ukraine (Płońsk’s twin city).

The meeting opened with an overview of the complex reality in Israel these days. Students from “Yehonatan” Middle School, led by Principal Keren Bavli and English Coordinator Sigal, presented a powerful video in which they shared their daily lives under the shadow of war and the emotions that accompany them. It was Israeli public diplomacy at its best—face to face, heart to heart.

Inbal Raz, Deputy of Mashmaut center and Gender Affairs Mayor's Advisor, led an engaging and experiential discussion and activity on language. The participants were fascinated to discover that in Hebrew, Polish, and Ukrainian alike, “balagan” is “balagan,” and “kiosk” refers to the same familiar place. For a moment, these words became a bridge of laughter, closeness, and mutual understanding.

A particularly moving highlight came when the youth from Ternopil appeared on screen wearing their traditional embroidered shirts – garments reserved for holidays and special occasions. This heartfelt gesture of solidarity and support for the State of Israel deeply touched all participants. They concluded the meeting with a beautiful presentation about their culture and heritage.

Meetings like this are far more than just “Zoom sessions.” They build emotional resilience, nurture young ambassadors who come to know the real Israel, and remind us that even when the world is turbulent, human connection and personal relationships remain our most powerful tools.

Many thanks to all those involved, to the educational teams at Mashmaut and “Yehonatan” Junior High School, and to the wonderful young participants – you are a source of great pride!