Vision
The project seeks to identify, encourage, and provide a national platform for talented young writers within Israel’s Pre-Military Mechinot. Through poetry, prose, and reflective writing, participants are invited to express their experiences, ideas, and perspectives during this formative year, develop their unique voices, and connect the world of the Mechinot with Israel’s broader literary and cultural landscape.
Activity
The Joint Council of Pre-Military Mechinot Programs (“Mechinot”) is the national umbrella organization of Israel’s Pre-Military Mechinot, bringing together a diverse network of educational programs across the country. The Council works to strengthen the Mechinot as formative educational frameworks that foster leadership, meaningful service, civic responsibility, and engagement with Israeli society.
Through the Matanel Writing Competition for Young Creators, the Council will invite Mechina participants nationwide to submit original works of poetry, prose, and reflective writing. Submissions will undergo an anonymous review process led by a professional committee of writers, poets, and educators. Thirty outstanding works will be selected for a professionally edited and printed anthology, from which ten outstanding writers will be chosen. The project will culminate in a festive book launch and award ceremony during Israel’s Book Week, celebrating the young writers and connecting them with Israel’s literary, cultural, and educational community.