French Immigrant Joins Herzliya Fire Department in National Service Milestone
Eighteen-year-old French immigrant Shana Kinner has officially become a firefighter in Herzliya through Israel's national service program, overcoming language barriers to join the front lines.
An 18-year-old immigrant from France has officially joined the ranks of the Fire and Rescue Authority in Herzliya, marking a remarkable journey of determination, integration, and public service.
A Challenging Path to the Frontline
Shana Kinner arrived in Israel alone just a year ago from Courbevoie, France, setting a clear goal to make a meaningful contribution to the country. After completing a preparatory program for French immigrants to learn Hebrew and Jewish studies, she learned about national service opportunities within the fire department. Following a rigorous selection process, she joined an intensive month-long training course alongside veteran Israeli trainees.
Overcoming language barriers and cultural adjustments, Shana successfully completed the program to become a certified firefighting support personnel. The culmination of her efforts was marked by a moving graduation ceremony, where her father surprised her by traveling all the way from France to attend. Oren Nehemia of the National Authority for Community Security praised her resilience, noting that her journey from arriving alone to serving on the front lines exemplifies profound courage.
Expanding International National Service
Shana is part of a broader initiative led by the Association for Voluntary Service (Aguda LeMitnadvut), which has integrated approximately 130 young women from around the globe into national service this year—double the figure from the previous year. These volunteers hail from countries including France, the United States, Russia, England, Mexico, and South Africa, contributing across hospitals, educational institutions, agriculture, and community frameworks.
Today, Shana resides in an apartment in Ra'anana with fellow volunteers who also arrived from France. Yaron Lutz, CEO of the Association for Voluntary Service, emphasized that Shana's story embodies Israeli and Jewish resilience, highlighting the dedication of young immigrants stepping forward to ensure community security.
