FLAGSHIP PROGRAMMES
National Network
Israel
Address
Kaplan 14 stCountry
City
Petah TikvaMobile Phone
+972528988742Telephone
+972528988742E-Mail (2)
haifa24.net@gmail.comWebsite
Click HereYear of Establishment
2019Contact Person1
nir razJob Title 1
Co -ManagerContact Person 2
Sarhan MahamidJob Title 2
Co -ManagerOrganisation Type
Public/Private Non-Profit FoundationFields of Activity
Arts, Democracy and community development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, International/Cultural relations, Youth and educationGeneral Information
We have been working together for over 17 years as medical clowns at Schneider Children’s Hospital, using humor, play, and creativity to bring comfort and healing to young patients. About eight years ago, we took a play therapy course together at the university. Through this shared learning experience, we realized that our approaches to medical clowning were deeply aligned, leading us to collaborate more intentionally.
Our partnership grew when we received a grant to travel to China, where we taught medical clowning in various hospitals. This experience reinforced our belief in the power of clown care as a universal tool for healing, capable of transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.
Five years ago, we co-founded a clown school inside Schneider Children’s Hospital, which has since become a leading institution in Israel. The school welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, fostering creativity, joy, and connection through the art of clowning.
Mission and Objectives
Our goal in opening the clown school was not only to train medical clowns for pediatric hospitals but also to equip professionals from various fields—such as dentistry, nursing, education, and the arts—with tools to bring more joy and emotional connection into their work and communities.
A fundamental value of our school is its inclusivity. As a Jewish teacher and a Muslim teacher, we intentionally designed the school to bring together Jewish and Muslim students. Through this, we have fostered meaningful conversations, strengthened cross-cultural understanding, and created a space for open dialogue and collaboration.
Beyond our school, we are committed to sharing our expertise internationally, training professionals and medical staff worldwide to integrate humor, play, and creative engagement into their work.
Main Projects / Activities
Clown School at Schneider Children’s Hospital – A successful training program for medical clowns and professionals from various fields, promoting joy and healing in their communities.
International Medical Clowning Training – Conducting workshops for medical professionals in China, India, Greece, and other cities worldwide.
Publications and Educational Resources –
Nir has authored books on group dynamics, games, and activities for group leaders.
Sarhan has developed a nonprofit organization dedicated to fulfilling the dreams of sick children.
Cross-Cultural Collaboration – Using clowning as a bridge to bring Jewish and Muslim students together, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding.
Through our artistic and educational efforts, we continue to inspire resilience, connection, and healing across different cultures and professional fields.
How can you contribute to the Network in your country?
With over 17 years of experience in medical clowning and cross-cultural collaboration, we bring valuable insights into integrating humor and creativity into healthcare. Through our clown school at Schneider Children’s Hospital, we have fostered a space that combines healthcare, education, and the arts to promote joy and healing. We aim to share our model of inclusive collaboration with the network, encouraging professionals from various fields to explore how art can enhance their work.
Our international experience, including teaching medical clowning in China, India, and Greece, allows us to offer a global perspective that can enrich local practices. Additionally, as a Jewish and Muslim teaching team, we are passionate about contributing to a more inclusive, harmonious society through art.
We are excited to share our knowledge and inspire growth within the network, creating meaningful change for both individuals and communities.
Why do you want to join the ALF Network?
We are passionate about using art, humor, and creativity to foster cross-cultural dialogue and healing. Joining the ALF Network would provide us with a platform to share our work in medical clowning, as well as our experience in bridging cultural divides through education and collaboration. As a Jewish and Muslim teaching team, we are committed to promoting inclusivity and understanding, values that align with ALF's mission. We believe that by joining the network, we can both learn from and contribute to a community dedicated to building stronger, more connected societies
Additional Information
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