Rakia International Leadership Program
Start your Leadership Journey
Dive into the Israeli Air Force Spirit
Rakia's International Leadership Program is a curated four-week experience connecting international and Israeli high school seniors with top Israeli Air Force pilots.
The Program
Israel’s model for leadership training and national service is internationally recognized.
The Rakia Leadership Academy has curated a four-week program for international and Israeli high school students, that offers an intensive and meaningful encounter with this successful model.
Rakia’s International Leadership Program is guided by top pilots from Israel’s Air Force, bringing its unique management methodologies to international students.
Leadership
Learn practical tools for leadership and management. Be empowered to lead with impact, even in challenging settings.
Entrepreneurship
Experience a close encounter with Israel’s vaunted innovation world. Understand the Israeli entrepreneurial mindset, one that will serve you in multiple settings.
Identity
The program’s format allows participants to develop meaningful relationships with their international and Israeli peers. The volunteer activities strengthen bonds with Israeli society; while the curriculum enhances a deeper understanding of Jewish traditions.
Rakia Academy Stories
Are you ready to discover Israel through a multi-layered summer experience? Join Rakia Academy’s International Leadership Program and immerse yourself in Israel’s story. Connect with your heritage; and gain the hands-on experience that breeds real leadership.
Who we are?
The Rakia Academy was established by an Air Force-affiliated non-profit comprised of two combate helicopter squadrons. Dozens of pilots joined forces to create this social initiative, driven by a single core value: responsibility. Responsibility as combatants, as an organization, and as citizens to make a meaningful impact on the future of the society we live in. Our responsibility is to instill the values, organizational culture, and tools we’ve acquired over the years into what we see as the most important mission—education.
Rakia Academy’ s International Leadership Program
The Team
Rakia Leadership
Ofir Ganani
Guy Dekel
Keren Kessel Vaknin
Tamar Singer
Registration
Register now, as places are limited
Application Form
Join an exclusive program where only 5% of applicants are selected. Showcase your potential and stand out among the best
Selection Process
Our screening process ensures we choose candidates with the greatest promise. This includes evaluating leadership qualities, motivation, and fit for the program
Full Program Details
A 4 week Israeli Air Force-inspired leadership program for worldwide Jewish teens, fostering personal growth, values, and connections while experiencing Israel
Fees for US & International Students $6,800
FAQ
The Rakia International Leadership Program runs from July 10th to August 4th, 2025. It is based at the Rakia Academy in Harish, with a dynamic itinerary that includes outdoor activities in Tel Aviv, northern Israel, Jerusalem, and the Negev desert. This combination ensures a comprehensive and immersive experience across Israel
The Rakia International Leadership Program runs from July 10th to August 4th, 2025. It is based at the Rakia Academy in Harish, with a dynamic itinerary that includes outdoor activities in Tel Aviv, northern Israel, Jerusalem, and the Negev desert. This combination ensures a comprehensive and immersive experience across Israel
The Rakia International Leadership Program is managed by the Rakia Pre-Military Academy, part of the Magic-Hornet nonprofit organization. This initiative brings together members of two elite combat helicopter squadrons from the Israeli Air Force. Driven by a shared sense of responsibility, dozens of pilots of all ages united to create impactful social initiatives with a strong focus on leadership and education
No. The Rakia International Leadership Program is not designed to recruit participants to the Israeli Army. While it draws inspiration from the Israeli Air Force's culture of excellence and professionalism, its primary goal is to provide leadership education and develop skills that can be applied in various aspects of life
The Rakia International Leadership Program is intended for students in 11th. This typically corresponds to ages 16–17, ensuring participants have the maturity and readiness to fully engage with the program’s leadership curriculum
The Rakia International Leadership Program is designed for 11th grade participants – typically ages 16-17—from the United States, other countries around the world, and Israel. This diverse community creates a rich environment where participants learn, grow, and connect across cultures.
No prior leadership experience is required. The Rakia International Leadership Program is designed to help you develop and strengthen leadership skills, regardless of your starting point. All you need is a willingness to learn, engage, and grow.
The Rakia International Leadership Program is conducted entirely in English, ensuring that participants from different backgrounds can fully engage, learn, and communicate effectively.
The Rakia International Leadership Program is hosted at the Rakia Academy, where accommodations resemble a comfortable college dorm environment. During the program, participants will also stay at comparable facilities in different locations, ensuring consistent standards of comfort and quality. In addition, the itinerary includes one memorable night of outdoor camping to enrich the overall experience.
Yes. All meals are included and prepared according to kosher guidelines. We also offer vegetarian options, and we’re happy to accommodate other dietary restrictions with advance notice.
The Rakia International Leadership Program adheres to regulations set by the Israeli Ministry of Education and upholds strict internal safety and security protocols. These measures ensure a safe, supportive environment for all participants throughout the program.
The Rakia International Leadership Program stands apart from other programs in both its focus and guiding principles. While many programs offer a broad cultural and educational Israeli summer experience, Rakia is specifically designed as a concentrated leadership development journey. Drawing inspiration from the Israeli Air Force’s culture of excellence, Rakia emphasizes personal growth, strategic thinking, and practical leadership methodologies.
Yes! The Rakia international Leadership Program respects and adheres to Jewish traditions and customs. All meals provided are kosher, and we fully observe Shabbat and other Jewish holidays. Religious participants will feel comfortable and supported throughout the program.