Empowerment and Inclusion: Success Stories of Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum in the Program ‘Special Interview’

Ayala Atedgi, Director of Youth and Young Adults Programs, Sharon & Central Branch, Israel Elwyn

As the Director of Youth and Young Adults Programs at Israel Elwyn’s Sharon & Central Branch, I am filled with pride and excitement to see eight of our service recipients and program graduates participating in the television program Special Interview. Based on the French format Les Rencontres du Papotin and hosted by Rotem Sela, the show airs on Channel 12. It features Israeli celebrities being interviewed by a group of interviewers on the autism spectrum, creating an open and honest conversation that highlights the skills and talents of our participants.

Among them, Neta Suliman, a graduate of Science High School in Rehovot, took part in Creating a Future, a program designed for high school students with disabilities in special education (ages 16–21) and students with disabilities in public school inclusive classes (ages 16–18). This program provides tools and skills to develop a personal future orientation, helping participants explore opportunities for post-graduation, such as military or national service, vocational training, academic studies, and employment in the competitive job market.

Asaf Elimelech, a graduate of De Shalit High School in Rehovot, also participated in Creating a Future and is now in his third year at ORT Rehovot within the Future Directions program. His perseverance and dedication, along with the support of his job coach, Noa Rubin, serve as an inspiration, underscoring the importance of professional guidance in each participant’s personal journey.

Yonatan Dayan, a student at ORT Singalovski in Tel Aviv, is currently enrolled in Future Directions, a program for young adults with disabilities that offers vocational training and helps develop employment capabilities, enabling participants to be included in the workforce and take an active role in their communities.

Bel Tzur, a graduate of the Democratic School in Hadera, was also part of Creating a Future and later joined Israel Elwyn’s Job Placement Program. She successfully completed our Spokespersons Group course, demonstrating the power of determination and the continuous support we provide to our participants.

Sonia Pobov, a graduate of New High School in Herzliya, participated in Creating a Future and this year studied at ORT Hermelin in Netanya as part of Future Directions. Her personal and professional growth illustrates the importance of continuity in training and support programs.

Amy Ronen, a student at Oded School in Kadima-Zoran, represents the younger generation of our participants, and we eagerly anticipate her progress and future achievements.

Ofir Galon, a graduate of Shafririm School in Givat Haim Ihud, took part in Creating a Future 12 years ago. Additionally, he participated in Mosaic—National Service for All Program, which provides supports for volunteers with disabilities who participate in national service programs through the nonprofit organizations that enable young adults who are exempt from IDF military service to take part in national service.. This program provides professional support and guidance to both participants and staff, facilitating their inclusion into meaningful volunteer roles that contribute to society, just like their peers. Ofir’s story highlights the long-term impact of our programs and the significance of sustained investment in participants.

Shaked Hoffman, a graduate of Dror High School in Lod, successfully completed Creating a Future. His dedication and perseverance in the program are truly inspiring and reflect the immense potential within each of our participants.

Programs such as Creating a Future, Future Directions, and Mosaic – National Service for All demonstrate Israel Elwyn’s commitment to equipping youth and young adults with disabilities with the tools and opportunities to be included into society and the workforce. The successes of our participants continue to inspire us to strive for a more inclusive and equitable future.

I would like to extend my gratitude to our key partners—the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs, the Ministry of Education, and local municipalities—for their support and collaboration in these programs. Without them, these achievements would not have been possible.

I am proud of each and every one of our participants and believe their stories prove that there are no limits to what can be achieved. I invite you all to follow this remarkable program.

 Photo Credit: From Special Interview, Courtesy of Keshet 12