Open Horizons

On October 7, residents of the Mishor HaGefen neighborhood in Ofakim fought multiple terrorist squads for nearly 24 hours. This group of approximately 100 residents, police officers, and civilians was forced into combat under extraordinary circumstances. Because they are not affiliated with a single security organization, they do not have access to a comprehensive support framework.

Art and culture have the power to foster healing and recovery. Creative expression provides a meaningful outlet, bringing joy, purpose, and a constructive path toward renewal.

Engaging in artistic and cultural creation—such as documentary filmmaking—offers an opportunity for active, future-oriented expression. The creative process can help participants process difficult memories in a safe and structured way, reduce their emotional intensity, and develop a deeper understanding of the lasting impact of their experiences.

A unique program in which 25 participants from the Mishor HaGefen community will be selected to study the art of documentary filmmaking through the Documentary Incubator model of the Gesher Foundation for Cinema, led by leading filmmakers and industry professionals.

Participants will be divided into three to four small teams specializing in areas such as cinematography, editing, and directing, with each team producing a short documentary film. Throughout the process, they will receive professional mentorship from experienced filmmakers. The completed films will premiere at a festive gala event in Ofakim and may be submitted to film festivals in Israel and around the world.

The entire program will be accompanied by mental health professionals from the Ofakim Resilience Center and facilitators from the Lifrosh Kanaf association.