Hand in Hand wins Calouste Gulbenkian Prize

Hand in Hand, the Jewish-Arab school network, has won the inaugural Calouste Gulbenkian International Prize, worth €100,000. Hand in Hand's Amin Khalef told the foundation:

"We are very happy to announce that Hand in Hand received the Calouste Gulbenkian International Prize. The prize, worth €100,000, aims to distinguish an individual or institution whose thoughts or actions make a decisive contribution and have significant impact on understanding, defending or fostering the universal values of the human condition, with particular reference to the following: Respect for difference and inter-cultural, inter-ethnic, and inter-religious dialogue. We are of course very happy and proud to be the very first participants of this prize.

"The foundation is one of the most prestigious foundations in Europe. This was the first year that the International Prize had ever been given out and the competition for this award was intense. Hand in Hand did not know anyone on the selection committee and did not lobby in any way. Since the application could not be submitted directly, Hand in Hand approached MK Colette Avital to submit its proposal. She had served in the past as the Israeli Ambassador to Portugal.

"It is great to receive even more recognition for the work we continue to do at Hand in Hand. As are dreams are being realized we are working to effect greater change in Israeli society in keeping with our goals of equality between Jews and Arabs in all spheres of education and we are continuing to influence others throughout Europe."

Also read the latest newsletter from Hand in Hand here.