Semai is the “Prince of the school,” according to Askelon SPACE Coordinator Worke, for his teachers universally adore him. He has what she calls “a little bit of magic” about him that allows him to connect with anyone and draws others inexplicably towards him. Despite these qualities, Semai had difficulty participating and would often keep to himself in the context of his large school classes.

Semai was born in Ethiopia, and his family immigrated to Israel in 2002 when he was just 4 years old. Semai doesn’t remember much from his journey, but he emphasizes the strong sense of purpose that his family felt in coming to Israel. When they began to adjust to life in Israel, Semai’s parents had trouble learning Hebrew and could not help him and his seven siblings with their schoolwork. Semai joined ENP’s SPACE Program when he started 7th grade at Makif Bet, and SPACE Coordinator Worke encouraged him to come to all of the activities in the hopes that it would help him gain confidence. Soon, it became apparent that Worke’s efforts had succeeded, for the smaller, more intimate nature of the SPACE classes made Semai feel more comfortable opening up. 

Semai is a very diligent student who fights fiercely to succeed in school and, with the help of SPACE, he was able to move up to the higher English level, thus allowing him to receive a full matriculation certificate. Semai’s favorite subject is Tanach because “it is the truth” of the history of the Jewish people. Furthermore, this past year, Semai received the certificate of excellence for his entire grade! Soon, Semai will be drafting into the Israeli army, where he hopes to join the Nachal Infantry Unit. Ultimately, Semai dreams of continuing his studies and opening up his own car repair business. Participating in the SPACE Program not only made Semai more socially comfortable and academically successful, but it also gave him the tools to believe in himself and dream big.