Ilan Maisenstein and his family moved to Israel from France in 1996 to pursue their dream of a safe and supportive Jewish community. Yemin Orde provided Ilan with a "soft landing" in his new country, helped shape his positive outlook on life, and strengthened his connection to Judaism. Ilan was a model student and excelled in his studies.

Following his graduation from the Village, Ilan joined the Mechina, which is Yemin Orde's Pre-Military Leadership Program for Immigrant Youth, a program for young Israeli immigrants to prepare them emotionally and physically for meaningful service in the Israel Defense Forces. The Mechina is located in the northern development town of Hatzor.

 At the Mechina, Ilan centered himself in the middle of political debates and enjoyed participating in group discussions. He was greatly interested in the history of the Israeli-Arab conflict and acquired expertise in Israeli military history.

After serving as a combat soldier in the prestigious Golani Brigade, Ilan joined the Israeli Police Force in the Netanya region, bringing to life the values he learned at the Mechina and at Yemin Orde. Ilan is married to Isabel and has three sons, Yochai, Golan and Sar'el.

Read More about Yemin Orde’s Mechina.

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