Anael Khalifa
Vocals
Anael, who was born blind, began singing at age 5. Originally from France, the family came to Israel when she was 8. Singing was the tool Anael used to adjust to her new school, it allowed her to stand out even though she didn’t yet speak the language. She dreams of growing more independent, and more confident in front of an audience. She plans to study psychology, with an emphasis on trauma counseling. She describes Shalva as a place that gives, and gives so much that you just want to give along with it. And so she chose to do her National Service at Shalva.
“Music is everything. It’s my home. It’s a hug. I connect to myself and to others through music. It’s me!”
Dina Samteh
Vocals
Born in Manipur, India, Dina came to Israel at age 10. Dina got her musical talents from her mother, a guitarist, and learned Hebrew through singing. Friendly and personable, Dina captivates audiences with her warmth and beautiful voice. Despite being blind, Dina says she feels the light and the happiness that the audiences radiate, which makes her feel equal. Dina is currently a National Service volunteer at Shalva and dreams of a successful music career.
“It is important for me not only to receive, but to give back. Shalva is my home and the tools that I got here will be used in my future.”
Yair Pomburg
Rap and percussions
Yair grew up in Shalva’s programs and returned to Shalva as an adult. Down syndrome does not prevent him from achieving what he wants – he works in a cafe and plays in a band. Visitors to Café Shalva can see him enthusiastically waiting tables, with a broad smile on his face. An electrician’s assistant by trade, Yair has strong opinions and is an avid follower of politics.
“I’m so happy playing the drums.”
Yosef Ovadia
Drums
Yosef, who has Williams’ Syndrome, has attended Shalva programming from age 7 and considers Shalva home. Yosef joined the Shalva band as a singer and when his voice changed, he turned to drumming. Today he’s become so professional at it, that he teaches his instructors things. Music enables Yosef to fulfill his personal dreams, and being in the band is a big part of his life.
“Music lights up my life, music makes me equal.”
Shai Ben Shushan
Band director
Shai has been directing the Shalva Band for 12 years. Shai was part of an elite army unit when he suffered a life-threatening injury 13 years ago. Through the rehabilitative process, he appreciated everyone who helped him along the way and once back to himself, decided it was time to give back to the community. Shai has developed the band into a professional band and opened doors for them in the highest places. For him, music creates a common language that connects the world of special education to the cultural world at large.
“It’s so moving to see that they have become talented and professional musicians and stand together with any musician out there. The Shalva Band is a personal rehabilitation for me.”
Book us
For more information and to book the band
Contact the band
For booking, press, and all other inquiries, please be in touch.
- Osnat Michaeli
- +972528398157
- osnatm@shalva.org
