Welcome to SHALOM

EPFL's Premier Israeli Association - Where Culture Meets Innovation

Connecting students through Israeli culture, fostering academic excellence, and building bridges to the global innovation ecosystem. Join a community that celebrates heritage while shaping the future.
50+
Active Members
10+
Annual Events
1
University
Global Network

About Our Community

Discover the story behind SHALOM and our impact on the EPFL community

Our Foundation & Values

SHALOM was established in April 2024 with a clear vision: to create a bridge between Israeli culture and academic excellence at EPFL. We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where students can explore Israeli heritage while building meaningful connections. Our core values center around cultural appreciation, academic excellence, innovation, and community building.

Community Impact

Since our inception, we've grown to over 50 registered members representing diverse backgrounds and academic disciplines. Our events consistently attract 30 to 300+ participants, creating vibrant discussions and lasting friendships. We've successfully organized 10+ events during our first year, from traditional holiday celebrations to technology conferences, establishing ourselves as a significant cultural presence on campus. The 13 000+ students at EPFL benefit from our initiatives, which promote cultural understanding and opportunities for dialogue.

Global Network

We're part of a growing international network of Israeli student communities. These connections allow us to share cultural initiatives and foster friendships with students who share a common heritage and interest in Israeli culture.

What We Offer

Comprehensive programs designed to enrich your cultural understanding and open yourself to the Israeli technological ecosystem

Cultural Events & Celebrations

Join authentic celebrations of Israeli holidays including Yom Hatsma'ut, Rosh Hashana, Hanukkah, etc... Experience traditional ceremonies, festive meals, and learn about the historical significance of each celebration.

Academic Seminars & Lectures

Attend expert-led seminars covering Israeli history, technology innovations, and contemporary issues. Learn from professors, industry leaders, and cultural experts.

Community & Friendship

Forge meaningful bonds with fellow students through shared cultural experiences, social gatherings, and a sense of belonging that lasts beyond your studies. Make SHALOM a home away from home.

Screenings & Discussions

Explore Israeli cinema through film screenings featuring award-winning movies, documentaries, and short films. Post-screening discussions provide deeper insights into Israeli society and culture.

Culinary Experiences

Discover Israeli cuisine through cooking workshops, food tastings, and traditional meal preparations. Learn to make falafel, hummus, shakshuka, and other beloved dishes.

Hebrew Language Learning

Improve your Hebrew skills through conversation groups, and structured learning sessions led by native speakers and language enthusiasts.

Future Projects

Exciting initiatives and ambitious plans that will shape the future of our community

Israel Cultural & Tech Tour

February 2026

A comprehensive 7-day educational journey to Israel combining cultural immersion with technology exploration. Visit historical sites, universities, tech companies, and startups while networking with local professionals.

Key Features:

Tech company visits
Historical site tours
University partnerships
Startup ecosystem exploration
Cultural immersion activities

SHALOM Innovation Hub

Fall 2025

Establish a dedicated space for Israeli students and enthusiasts to collaborate on projects, host events, and create a permanent community center within EPFL campus.

Key Features:

Dedicated meeting space
Event hosting capabilities
Study and collaboration areas
Cultural library and resources
Regular programming

Tech Exchange Program

2026

Relaunch and expand semester exchange programs connecting EPFL students with Israeli universities, focusing on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the startup nation.

Key Features:

University partnerships
Semester abroad programs
Joint research projects
Student exchange facilitation
Academic credit recognition

Startup Incubator Partnership

2025-2026

Collaborate with Israeli incubators and venture capital firms to provide mentorship, funding opportunities, and startup guidance for student entrepreneurs.

Key Features:

Mentorship programs
Pitch competitions
Funding connections
Business development workshops

Our Mission & Vision

Our mission is to create a vibrant hub for Israeli culture, innovation, and academic excellence at EPFL. We strive to build bridges between cultures, foster meaningful connections, and inspire the next generation of global innovators.

Building Connections

Fostering meaningful relationships between Israeli and Swiss students through cultural exchange and shared experiences.

Driving Innovation

Promoting Israeli technological advancement and entrepreneurial spirit within the EPFL ecosystem.

Academic Excellence

Supporting academic achievement and professional development through mentorship and resources.

Join Our Community

Be part of something extraordinary. Connect with like-minded individuals and shape the future of Israeli culture at EPFL.