A Heartfelt Farewell from TALMA’s Full Year Fellowship Director

Five months ago, Miri joined TALMA as Full Year Fellowship Director, stepping in while Sivan began her maternity leave. In a short time, she became a steady source of support for fellows, regional managers, and school partners. As the fellowship came to a close, she shared a heartfelt farewell speech reflecting on the challenges, friendships, and gratitude that shaped her time with TALMA.

She opened by reflecting on everything the community experienced together.

“What haven’t we experienced together? A long war, canceled flights, missiles, and even a Purim party on Zoom. Trips, donor visits, projects, training days, kits, delicious food. So much happened, and so many staff members took part in making this incredible experience possible.”

Throughout her speech, Miri thanked the many people who made the year possible, from TALMA’s leadership and regional managers to the pedagogical consultants and behind the scenes staff whose dedication supported the fellowship every day.

 

 

She also took a moment to recognize the fellows themselves.

“Leaving your country, your parents, your family, your friends, and your routine to move to our beautiful, but sometimes a little crazy, country in order to teach children English is a true mission.”

Before wrapping up, Miri shared a few lighthearted “end of year statistics” that perfectly captured the friendships and memories built over the past five months.

3,266: The number of times I called Debra “Diane,” and she still liked me afterward.

432: The number of times I said I was busy, and somehow everyone still put up with me.

1: A very emotional end of the year, in which I feel deeply grateful for this time. With all of you.

She closed with a simple message that captured the spirit of her experience.

“Thank you for being so kind to me. I hope I was able to be just as kind in return.”

Miri’s farewell reminds us that TALMA is about much more than teaching English. It’s about people, community, and the relationships that make a lasting impact on students, educators, and everyone involved. As this year’s fellows begin their next chapters, they leave with unforgettable experiences and a community that will always be part of their journey.

About Miri

Miri joined TALMA in early 2026 as Full Year Fellowship Director while Sivan was on maternity leave. Over the following five months, she worked closely with fellows, regional managers, and staff across Israel, helping lead the program through its final months.