Breaking the cycle of underrepresentation
in technology by empowering underprivileged populations
Founded in 2013 in Maj'd al-Krum by former Air Force pilot Asaf Brimer, the Moona Association is dedicated to promoting interaction and integration across diverse populations in Israel. With a mission to address the challenges faced by underprivileged communities and to empower the next generation of technological change leaders, Moona is leading the way in innovative solutions for a better reality.
Who Are We?
Moona is a nationwide technological social initiative focused on promoting the integration of underprivileged populations into high-tech employment. Our network of technological innovation centers provides the knowledge, education, experience, and practical tools needed for a smoother transition into the Israeli high-tech world. We offer a range of educational programs, including workshops and activities for children and youth starting at age 13, as well as industrial training courses for adults seeking to enhance their skills in engineering and find meaningful employment.
Early Exposure and Long-Term Support Programs
At Moona, we believe in the power of early exposure to the world of technology and high-tech, which greatly increases the chances of a child pursuing a career in this field. Our training programs lay a strong foundation by inspiring and developing the next generation of tech talent, empowering them to believe in their abilities to create and innovate. We also provide long-term support to our participants to ensure their success.
Innovative Pedagogy for a Better Reality
Moona's action-driven, innovative pedagogy provides the necessary tools for participants to develop both technological and social skills. Our approach creates a better reality for those we serve, not only on the technical side, but also through a sense of belonging and social resilience.
Empowering Local Leaders and Driving Technological Advancements
Moona's regional model is designed to generate new ideas, cultivate local leadership, and drive technological advancements in the periphery. This strengthens social cohesion across different cultures, promoting a united society.
A Stronger, More Inclusive Society
Our ultimate goal is to provide innovative solutions to the challenges faced by underprivileged populations and empower the next generation of technological change leaders. By working together, we can create a stronger, more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute to regional growth and the national economy.
Combining practical experience in advanced technologies with a creative mindset produces innovative and high-quality processes, guaranteeing products of the highest level while fostering personal development and excellence.
OUR VALUES
At Moona, we value connection and collaboration. Our open and inclusive spaces bring together individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, fostering meaningful conversations and partnerships. By connecting people and ideas, we create a powerful force for innovation and growth.
Continuity is a core value at Moona. We believe in creating sustainable and long-lasting change by empowering individuals, developing their capabilities, and growing local leadership. By fostering a culture of continuity and opportunity, we drive progress and growth that benefits the entire region.
The job market in Jerusalem was already challenging for someone like Musab, an Israeli-Arab with a technician's degree, but the arrival of the Corona pandemic made it even more difficult. Despite his best efforts to find work with familiar companies, he faced rejection and added financial stress at home. As a result, Musab accepted a job as a back warehouse worker at a Rami Levi supermarket in Ma'ale Adumim, where he worked for nearly two years.
However, within one month of enrolling in Moona's Starter to Industry Training Course, Musab's Hebrew skills improved greatly, and his mechanical engineering proficiency was evident to all. He was soon nominated to lead his training group in their prototype development challenge. And three months after completing the program, he was hired as a mechanical engineer at ipipe, a startup that builds tiny submarines to detect faults in underwater pipeline infrastructure.
Hani was newly married when she joined the 9th Kfar Qassem 'Starter to Industry' Cohort at Moona. Coming from a religious family in Bnei Brak, she had completed a software engineering degree from Azrieli College without compromising on her career path. However, her lack of practical experience and connections in the field made it difficult for her to break into the industry.
She worked various jobs before the Corona pandemic hit. When her regional employment office recommended a course in Advanced Manufacturing, she jumped at the opportunity, as it seemed to be her best option in navigating the already challenging job market.
Today, Hani works at Radiflo, a cyber security company that protects critical infrastructure and automation. Her experience through Moona's placement process not only landed her a good entry-level position but also provided her with valuable professional experience and mobility.
© COPYRIGHT MOONA - A SPACE FOR CHANGE 2013