Located in the heart of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, in the northern part of the Gaza envelope, the Nahal Oz branch embodies the spirit of resilience and settlement. Established in 2014 following Operation "Protective Edge" to strengthen the community, the branch serves as a symbol of the deep partnership between Meitarim Lachish and the residents of the Western Negev, driven by a profound sense of duty.
Following the events of October 7, 2023, and the subsequent evacuation of the kibbutz, students and alumni became a vital anchor for the displaced community at Mishmar HaEmek, operating educational frameworks for the children. In 2025 (5785), while many residents were still away from home, the Mechina returned to operate within the kibbutz to maintain a presence of life and assist the families who chose to return.
The branch is actively integrated into the kibbutz’s various sectors and maintains constant contact with the evacuees, accompanying the homecoming of about half the residents and addressing the challenges and needs arising from the community. In this way, the branch serves as a true partner in the return and reconstruction of the kibbutz.
Mission & Community Action
Agriculture
"In a place where there are no men, strive to be a man."
(Pirkei Avot 2:5)
Diversity of Voices
Israeli Beit Midrash
Partner to Nadav and father to Yiftach and Naomi. A member of Kibbutz Nahal Oz. A graduate of the "Hotam" (Teach First Israel) program, Eli holds a teaching certificate in Mathematics and formerly served as vice principal of a school in Sderot. He is a passionate student of history, particularly the Second World War. "I believe the role of an educator is to cultivate the strength to create courage. To create change in any field of life, one must dare. The Mechina year demands daring because it requires self-work, raising complex questions, and confronting the answers. Only then can we change society."
Married to Uri, mother of 4, and grandmother of 7. A member of Kibbutz Kabri in the north, Esti came to Nahal Oz through the "Elul" adult service year program. She served as a teacher and counselor for the Ministry of Education for many years. She is deeply connected to children and youth and values personal connections. "I feel it is a great privilege to enrich and educate today's youth."
22 years old, from Efrat. A graduate of Mechina Nofei Prat, Paz served in the Artillery Corps. She loves hiking, nature, and landscapes. "As a Mechina graduate, I know the power of the Mechina to influence and strengthen students ahead of their military service and to prepare them for a meaningful life in the State of Israel."
From Sde Nitzan, a graduate of Meitarim Lachish (Nahal Oz branch). Served in the IDF in the Foreign Relations Unit. Omer is a sports enthusiast and loves the sea and sunsets. "My philosophy: Where I am needed, I am there. Where I can influence for the better, I flourish."
22 years old, from Yeruham. A graduate of the Beit Guvrin branch, Shoval served in the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit. "As a student, the people I met and the challenges the Mechina presented were incredibly significant to me—that is why I returned to lead as a counselor."
