About us

Background

Rakia Academy was founded by the NGO Magic Hornet, which brings together two combat helicopter squadrons from the Israeli Air Force. Dozens of pilots of various ages joined forces to create a social initiative driven by one fundamental value: responsibility.

As fighters, citizens, and members of an organization, we embrace our duty to influence the future by embedding the values, organizational culture, and skills we have cultivated into the mission of education.

Message from the Head of the Academy

Dear Candidate,
The preparatory year is a journey—both personal and collective—designed to build a solid foundation for a life of action and purpose.

Roosevelt once said, “The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again.”

In today’s fast-paced world, it takes courage to acknowledge injustice, believe in a vision, and take steps to create change. I invite you to step into the arena, embrace challenges, grow from failures, and do so with resilience and joy.

Yours,

Ofir Ganni, Head of Rakia Academy

Harish

Harish is the first city established in Israel in the last 25 years. Its rapid development represents a national
challenge we have chosen to embrace. Harish is experiencing massive growth across all aspects of life— education, culture, welfare, and infrastructure. Every year, Rakia participants contribute to pioneering
community projects in Harish, including mentoring new immigrant children and special education students, tutoring at-risk youth, preparing for meaningful service, and leading leadership groups in the city. We see the academy as an integral part of Harish’s community and character.

Staff

Married to Revital, father of Naomi, Michael, Abigail, and Ruth. Grandson of the first secretary at Kibbutz Degania A and founder of its library. Served 26 years in the Air Force as a combatant and in various command roles. Holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a master’s degree in Strategy from the AWC.

Ofir Ganni

Head of Rakia Academy
Married to Neta and father of Abigail and Eliana. Studied Philosophy and Jewish Thought at the Shalem Center and has worked in education and teaching in various frameworks. A Major (Res.) in the elite Yahalom unit.

Ravid Cohen

Program Manager
Originally from Tzur Moshe, Itamar was part of Rakia’s first cohort and served as a medic in the Benjamin Regional Brigade.

Itamar Shreiber

Instructor
איילה אלימלך במקור ממושב גמזו, בשירותה הצבאי הייתה בחיל האוויר מש״קית מנ״ת ולאחר מכן בקבע קה״דית בטייסת 113.

Ayala Elimelech

Instructor
Originally from Mitzpe Hila, Tamar completed a service year with the Amichai Association. She served as an education officer in the Border Police.

Tamar Sabah

Instructor
Married to Adar and father of Noam, Itamar, and Amit. Served 27 years as a combatant and commander in the Air Force. Holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Management and a master’s degree in Public Administration. Passionate about the stories, trails, and landscapes of Israel.

Guy Falk

Hiking Coordinator
Born and raised in Moshav Avigdor. Completed a service year in the New Movement and served in Military Intelligence. After his service, he instructed Rakia’s second cohort. Currently a bachelor’s student at the Shalem Academic Center.

Yuval Porat

Alumni Coordinator

Lecturers

“In this course, we explore the philosophical foundations of political ideas and processes, addressing concepts such as liberty, equality, justice, and ideology.”

Udi Bernstein

Political Philosophy Course
“How should we approach mistakes? Are they setbacks to be forgotten or opportunities for growth? This course teaches participants to embrace mistakes as a joyful path to improvement.”

Yotam Goder

Coping with Failure Course
“This course helps participants understand and develop good traits, drawing on Jewish texts and Western philosophy to foster personal growth.”

Ravid Cohen

Personal Development Course
“Social entrepreneurship empowers participants to create meaningful societal change. This course includes hands-on experience developing social initiatives guided by leading Israeli entrepreneurs.”

Marcio Lampert

Social Entrepreneurship Course
“Who am I? What shapes my strengths, dreams, and fears? This course explores personal, political, and cultural identity through self-reflection and dialogue.”

Asaf Granot

Identity Course
“Brigadier General (res.) Nir Nin-Nun offers insights into leadership through examples from combat aviation.”

Nir Nin Nun

Leadership Course

Our Partners