Bridging Divides: 3 Israeli-Palestinian Innovations Paving the Way to Peace

In a region often defined by conflict and division, there’s a powerful movement emerging from the shadows—a beacon of hope fueled by connection, collaboration, and the promise of shared prosperity. Amidst the turmoil, dynamic organizations are proving that, through education, technology, and entrepreneurship, it’s possible to forge bonds that transcend borders. Initiatives like Tech2Peace, MEET (Middle East Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow), and 50:50 Startups are uniting Israelis and Palestinians, fostering understanding, trust, and mutual growth. This effort showcases the limitless potential that arises when people dare to bridge the gaps that divide them.

Leading this transformative journey are visionaries like Yaniv Sagee, the CEO of MEET; Hela Lahar, the dynamic leader of Tech2Peace; Adnan Jaber, a dedicated board member at Tech2Peace and founder of the PeaceTech Affinity Group; Marwan Meqbil, co-director at 50:50 Startups; and Shai Friedman, the CEO of 50:50 Startups. Together, they embody the belief that through dialogue and empowerment, a more equitable and peaceful future is not just a dream—it’s a reality within reach.

Yaniv Sagee is an inspiring Israeli leader, dedicating over three decades to education and public service. For the past 15 years, he’s focused on fostering connections among Jews, Arabs, Israelis, and Palestinians, believing this work is crucial for Israel’s sustainability and democracy. His journey includes leading Givat Haviva, Israel’s largest center promoting a shared society between Jews and Arabs. For the past three years, he’s channeled his passion into MEET, driving innovative programs that connect young minds across divides.

Hela Lahar stands at the forefront of Tech2Peace, advocating for Israeli-Palestinian coexistence with unwavering commitment. With a decade of experience in the field, she began her journey at Columbia University, where her focus rapidly shifted from a broader view of Israeli society to addressing the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Seeking to make a more profound impact, she moved to Israel to join Tech2Peace, pioneering creative approaches to foster collaboration and understanding.

Adnan Jaber embodies the spirit of resilience. A Palestinian born in East Jerusalem and now residing in Los Angeles, he teaches entrepreneurship for peace at UCLA, demonstrating how passion can drive change and understanding.

Marwan Meqbil, another powerful voice in this movement, is the Director of 50:50 Startups. Originally from a West Bank refugee camp, he’s devoted his career to fostering entrepreneurship and collaboration, striving to create equal opportunities for innovators on both sides of the conflict.

Shai Friedman brings a wealth of experience to 50:50 Startups, blending his background in fundraising, venture capital, and philanthropy with a passion for meaningful connections. His recent arrival at the organization represents a powerful convergence of expertise and purpose, aiming to reshape the narrative around collaboration.

Origins: Building Foundations For Change

These organizations emerged from a shared recognition: traditional peacebuilding methods were no longer sufficient.

MEET began its journey 20 years ago, sparked by a group of visionary students during the Second Intifada who saw a unique opportunity to connect through technology. “During that turbulent time, the peace efforts were faltering,” recalls Sagee. Armed with the innovative spirit of MIT, they transformed a global program into a local initiative that united Israeli and Palestinian youth. Initially, the program focused solely on computer science and entrepreneurship, fostering partnerships without the weighted burden of dialogue—just young minds learning and growing together.

As the program evolved, they recognized the importance of deeper understanding, introducing a dialogue component that enriched the learning experience. The allure of the MIT brand attracted eager students, leading to rapid growth and expansion into new regions. Today, MEET enrolls 120 ninth-graders each year, offering a three-year program filled with intensive learning experiences, including a unique accelerator program that empowers students to create tech-based solutions for real-world challenges.

Tech2Peace launched with a bold vision to disrupt the entrenched cycles of division. Lahar describes its inception as a gathering of diverse minds—two Israeli Jews, a Palestinian, and an East Jerusalemite—uniting to impart cutting-edge tech skills while fostering genuine dialogue. Since its start in 2017, Tech2Peace has transformed into a thriving alumni community, engaging over 620 strong individuals who continue to amplify their voices and experiences.

50:50 Startups was born from the belief that sustaining the status quo is impossible. It emphasizes the need for individual connections through entrepreneurial collaboration. “We equip our participants with the professional tools to excel,” states Friedman, who joined the organization amidst heightened tensions, recognizing an urgent opportunity for meaningful change.

Personal Journeys: From Skepticism To Leadership

Meqbil’s story is a testament to the power of personal transformation. Growing up in a refugee camp, he originally pursued a career in high tech while harboring skepticism towards engagement with Israelis. His perspective shifted dramatically when he joined an initiative bringing together Palestinians, Israelis, and internationals. “For the first time, I sat across from an Israeli citizen,” he reflects. This pivotal moment challenged him to reconsider ingrained beliefs and opened his mind to the complexity of perspectives on both sides.

Jaber’s path to peace-building was similarly personal. “For 22 years, I lived in East Jerusalem without a Jewish friend,” he recounts. Struggling to break into Israel’s tech industry due to cultural and language barriers, he found his breakthrough at Tech2Peace. Initially drawn to the tech aspect, he feared the notion of peace. Yet, through his first dialogue experience, he realized the shared humanity on both sides—sparking new friendships and igniting his confidence to engage more deeply with Israeli society.

Success Through Collaboration

The impact of these innovative programs is palpable, manifesting in both tangible outcomes and profound personal growth. MEET currently serves 300 students annually, with a robust network of 200 alumni actively participating in leadership and professional development. Sixteen alumni have successfully gained admission to MIT, while others are launching startups that address local needs, including exciting projects aimed at improving navigation in the West Bank.

Tech2Peace has conducted numerous intensive seminars, cultivating a vibrant alumni community that thrives on collaboration and professional development. As Lahar notes, they wrapped up 2023 with a remarkable 69% engagement rate among its alumni, empowering success stories like Dana Global, a desert tech solutions accelerator founded by alumni now making waves in the UAE.

50:50 Startups recently hosted its program in Cyprus, turning logistical challenges into unique opportunities for connection. Friedman reflects on the first in-person encounter with co-leader Meqbil as a transformative moment, noting that meeting on neutral ground allowed participants to engage in ways previously unimagined.

Addressing Skepticism In Times Of Conflict

In an increasingly polarized world, these organizations face scrutiny from all sides. Lahar acknowledges the skepticism they encounter even in her own community, emphasizing that their work is rooted in tangible impact rather than abstract ideals. “We’re trailblazing a new path that embraces coexistence as a vehicle for prosperity and safety for all,” she asserts.

Jaber addresses concerns head-on, advocating for the right to education and understanding, insisting that dialogue does not equate to condoning violence or injustice. Sagee articulates MEET’s mission as inspiring hope and creating successful partnerships that embody the possibility of peace while nurturing future leaders equipped to tackle conflict resolution with empathy.

Despite the challenges posed by ongoing conflict, Meqbil emphasizes the need for continued dialogue, reminding us that in war, “Both sides lose. There are no winners.” The program provides vital space for participants to express their emotions and fears, working with professionals to facilitate deep conversations that promote understanding and healing.

During these trying times, Friedman underscores the importance of responsible leadership. “When crises arise, it’s our responsibility to facilitate discussions that uplift rather than harm,” he states. The current challenges reveal the true nature of partners committed to progress, emphasizing that true collaboration thrives not in absence of difficulty, but in spite of it.

Culture And Impact During Crisis

The ongoing conflict has only heightened the resilience of these organizations. Tech2Peace resumed community activities just two days after the October 7th attacks, demonstrating the strength of their connections. MEET participants have cultivated a deeper sense of empathy and understanding as they navigate personal connections to the conflict.

Lahar shares a remarkable story of resilience, recalling an entrepreneurship workshop that nearly fell through due to the Iranian attack. Team members responded, determined to press forward despite the turmoil. “People here adapt quickly; they pick themselves up and move on,” she observes. This ability to pivot and maintain dialogue underscores the importance of community in times of crisis.

Sagee describes 2023 as one of MEET’s most challenging years, marked by an increase in dehumanization and divisive sentiments. To address this, they implemented a “traffic light” system for communication, promoting a safe space for dialogue while acknowledging the complexities of the current climate. Their goal remains to foster “brave spaces” where participants can grow, learn, and empathize beyond conflict.

These innovative programs have given rise to socially conscious startups, such as “WEST,” an app designed for navigation in the West Bank that accounts for roadblocks and checkpoints often overlooked by conventional apps. As Sagee aptly notes, these solutions stem from the lived experiences of young people grappling with the realities of their environment.

The Groundwork For Eventual Peace

The leaders behind these initiatives view their efforts as laying the groundwork for future peace, even when the path isn’t straightforward. “There’s no future without civil society’s support,” Lahar emphasizes, highlighting the critical role that grassroots organizations will play in post-conflict recovery.

Despite the current challenges, Sagee remains hopeful, envisioning a new generation of leaders equipped with the tools to challenge prejudice and foster collaboration. Their mission is not to create immediate peace but to build the relationships and infrastructure necessary for any meaningful resolution.

Through technology and entrepreneurship, these organizations are proving that collaboration can flourish even amidst war. Jaber concludes passionately, “Peace is a grassroots effort. It’s about fostering connections and building trust, step by step, to change lives and communities.”