Komuna: Connecting young Israelis and olim through the power of Israeli folk dance

Hila Mukdasi founded Komuna, a community that uses Israeli folk dance to connect young Israelis and new immigrants. Starting as a student initiative, it has grown to operate in multiple cities, offering dance classes, social events, and volunteering. Participants report building friendships and a sense of belonging through dance.

Hila Mukdasi founded Komuna, a community that uses Israeli folk dance to connect young Israelis and new immigrants (olim). Inspired by her parents' dancing, she noticed a lack of young participants in traditional folk dance groups. While studying at Hebrew University, she introduced the dances to peers, who responded enthusiastically. She then created Komuna, a dedicated space for young dancers, which has grown over nine years to operate in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa, as well as in ulpan classes for new immigrants. Participants include secular and religious Israelis, native-born citizens, and olim. For many newcomers, it combines language learning with cultural immersion. Komuna also organizes volunteering initiatives during crises, supporting soldiers, NGOs, and bereaved families. Mukdasi received the Taglit Hashana award from the Culture and Sport Ministry in 2018 and the Contribution to Society award in 2024. Participants like Chaim, who made aliyah from Mexico, describe dancing as central to their life and community. Deborah Brown, who made aliyah from the US, calls Komuna her 'happy place' and 'second family.'