The Yafo Mosaic Program

Background 

Yafo, the southern neighborhood of Tel Aviv-Yafo, is a unique urban center where Arab and Jewish communities coexist.

With a population of approximately 50,000, of which about 40% are Arab citizens, Yafo stands out as one of the few mixed areas in Israel where both communities live side by side in most neighborhoods.

This diversity is reflected in the mosaic of cultures, religions, and traditions that shape the city’s vibrant character.

The Need

Despite the physical proximity and shared public spaces, meaningful connections between Arab and Jewish residents in Yafo remain limited.

While the presence of one community no longer excludes the other, as was the case in the past, interactions often remain superficial.

The ongoing war since October 7th, 2023, along with the tragic terror attack in Yafo in October 2024, have further strained relations between communities and highlighted the urgent need for resilient intercommunal bonds.

The Project

Yafo Mosaic is a comprehensive, multi-layered initiative designed to strengthen the fabric of Yafo’s diverse community through five strategic and interconnected tracks. Each track targets a different age group and social sphere, creating a holistic approach that addresses the complex challenges of Arab-Jewish relations at various life stages and social contexts.

From elementary school children to adults, from science to storytelling, these programs work in concert to build lasting bridges between communities.

All five tracks feature bilingual sessions, equal participation of both Jews and Arabs, and a final showcase event.