Israel’s first National Youth Conference opened with an act of renewal: the restoration of Philip Farm in the Arava region of the Negev Desert.
The farm had been managed by Yochai Hershberg, who was killed while serving in the reserves at the start of the war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Since his death, the land had remained untended.
In tribute to Yochai’s legacy, HaShomer HaChadash launched the conference with a nationwide call to action. Hundreds of teens from across Israel came together to rehabilitate the farm through hands-on agricultural work, volunteering and values-based learning inspired by Yochai’s life and vision.
Hershberg inherited the farm from his father, a Palmach fighter and former Mossad agent, and transformed it into a thriving center for agriculture and tourism in the southern desert.
He viewed the land as a model for sustainable farming, educational tourism and modern Zionism, and built the farm accordingly.
Yoel Zilberman, CEO and founder of HaShomer HaChadash, said “the volunteer work at Philip Farm, part of HaShomer HaChadash’s inaugural Youth Conference, is a powerful expression of mutual responsibility and the younger generation’s deep commitment to the future of Israeli agriculture. Philip Farm, which suffered a profound loss during the war, like many others, requires rebuilding, and we are here to support that effort. Since the war began, HaShomer HaChadash has stood alongside affected farmers, on the ground, through direct work and by providing comprehensive support.”
He added that “we will continue to offer full assistance to every farmer in need, ensuring food security and a thriving agricultural sector for years to come. I want to thank the many volunteers who come each week, day and night, to work in the fields with a level of dedication that is truly irreplaceable.”
