As Baltimore students head back to school, they’re not the only ones preparing for a big year ahead. Six Shinshinim, young emissaries from Israel, will be spending the year serving as cultural ambassadors and role models in our community.

Having deferred their army service, these recent high school graduates will volunteer in schools, synagogues, camps and community programs, strengthening the bonds between Baltimore and Israel. We are thrilled to welcome these six incredible young leaders who will inspire, teach and share their love for Israel in ways only they can.

Let’s meet Gal, Lia, Nogah, Talya, Tamar and Yagel!

Gal
Gal lives in Shoham, a town in Central Israel, and has been part of the Scouts since 4th grade. This summer he led his own team of counselors. His experience as a counselor at Half-Moon Camp in Massachusetts gave him a taste of American Jewish life. Majoring in computer science and biology, Gal balances his academic interests with time spent running, hiking, working out and playing guitar. His decision to join the Shinshin program stems from a desire to connect with Baltimore’s Jewish community. He is very excited for the journey ahead and can’t wait to meet everyone.

Lia
Lia is a seasoned youth group leader for the Scouts and has guided 8th graders and younger students with energy and compassion. Her days begin and end with meditation and journaling, and she thrives on staying active, with a special love of yoga. Academically, Lia excels in chemistry and biology, but her true passion lies in forming meaningful people-to-people connections. Lia, who is from Herzliya, is looking forward to adding value to Baltimore’s Jewish community.

Nogah
Hailing from Jerusalem, Nogah is a 12th-grade student who believes deeply in the power of human connection. As a Scouts counselor and a volunteer with Kshishi, she’s worked closely with the elderly, preparing for Shabbat each week and bringing joy to their lives. Whether playing music, traveling or engaging in sports, Nogah approaches every challenge with curiosity and optimism. She’s eager to explore Baltimore, meet new friends and share in the adventures of a year filled with cultural exchange and community building.

Talya
From Efrat, Talya brings an easygoing nature and a wealth of experiences to Baltimore. A Bnei Akiva madricha, MADA volunteer, avid traveler and guitar player, Talya also likes to hang out with her friends. Having lived in the U.S. and Hong Kong while her family was on Shlichut, she knows firsthand the impact of Shinshinim and Bnei Sherut in Jewish communities abroad. Inspired by those role models, Talya is now on her own mission.

Tamar
From Moshav Ganot Hadar in central Israel, Tamar blends a love for innovation with a passion for Jewish connection. A counselor for three years and a participant in a global Jewish leadership program for four, she’s already built strong bridges between communities. Her interests in computer science and physics reflect her problem-solving mindset, while her hobbies of travel, photography and sunset-watching show her appreciation for beauty and perspective. Tamar is excited to share her love for Israel and show the country through her perspective. 

Yagel
Yagel is the new Shinshinit from our partner city of Ashkelon. She’s a dedicated lacrosse player who has represented Israel in national championships. Her healthy lifestyle and consistency follow her everywhere she goes. As a former Diller Fellow, Yagel loves connecting with people and exploring new ideas. She’s also fascinated by medicine and is currently working on a research project with doctors. When she’s not on the field or deep into her studies, you’ll probably find her traveling the world or relaxing at the beach, always looking for her next adventure.  

Each of our 2025–2026 Shinshinim arrived with their own story, skills and dreams—but together, they share one mission: to bring the heart of Israel to Baltimore and create connections that will last far beyond this year.