I Don’t Believe in One Career for Life

A blog by Maayan Ambar, lead singer of the Shavim Band at Israel Elwyn
“I love everything about music—whether it’s listening to songs, singing in a band, or learning to play new instruments. I believe that music is a language and a remedy for everything.

Just a few years ago, my confidence and self-image were at rock bottom. I have an invisible disability (cerebral palsy and autism), and many of my life opportunities were shaped by how people perceived me. More than once, I was rejected from jobs simply because I was honest about my challenges. Instead of seeing me as a person with skills, they saw only the disability—and immediately ruled me out.

But I know that life is a daily challenge. There will always be people who judge me for my struggles rather than appreciate how far I’ve come. And that’s okay. That’s on them. 

When I was 12, after taking medications like Ritalin (oh yeah, I also have ADD ), I developed an involuntary tic where I would pull out my eyebrows and eyelashes. One day, I pulled out an entire eyebrow—completely gone. That was when I decided that medication wasn’t the right solution for me. Instead, I found alternative methods that work directly on the brain and have helped me.

As a child, doctors said I would never stand on my own two feet. But today, I am completely independent, thank Gd.

My Dreams? They’re Big
I dream of giving my own lectures and sharing my story with the world. I believe it can inspire people and leave them with new insights.

I also dream of starting a family, but it’s not simple. I want my future partner to be neurotypical—not to have the same neurological differences as me. It’s a challenge because I find it easier to date people who understand me and have had similar experiences. But I’m choosing a different path because I want to give my future children the best possible chance. And in general, the dating world is not exactly accessible for people with disabilities—in every sense of the word. 

There was a time when I painted a lot, and after selling my first two paintings, I completely lost the desire to continue. Maybe one day, I’ll go back to it.

Always on Stage
My first interview was on the Hidabroot channel nearly two years ago. Back then, I spoke from a place of pain and struggle. Today, when I talk about my life, I do it from a place of self-love, acceptance, and understanding.

I always see myself working in music. I imagine myself performing on big stages, releasing albums, and creating shows like no other in Israel and beyond. My story is special and unique—and so will be my music.

On this International Women’s Day, I encourage every woman to dare, to dream, and to make those dreams come true.

I once didn’t dare to dream.
Today, I dare to make them happen.
Like a true Jerusalemite—I never stop at a red light.”