Who We Are

From crisis to growth: building a civil society coalition for the promotion of a shared life.

Our Story

Kulna Yaffa is an Arab-Jewish civic initiative based in the historic city of Jaffa, dedicated to strengthening shared life, social cohesion, and the city’s unique civic fabric. For centuries, Jaffa served as a vibrant global hub of commerce, culture, and coexistence among diverse communities. While the city now faces complex social and economic challenges, we believe Jaffa remains a model of potential openness and mutual respect. Our organization was established in May 2021, emerging at a time when the social fabric of our city was deeply tested. We were born out of the profound belief that Jaffa’s resilience depends entirely on strengthening all its communities and fostering meaningful joint initiatives. Our approach is grounded in the understanding that genuine partnership is not merely a theoretical aspiration but a daily practice that generates sustainable change. This Arab-Jewish partnership is built on absolute equality and the commitment to design Jaffa’s future from the ground up. Over the past five years of activity, we have led wide-ranging initiatives in collaboration with educational institutions, community organizations, and civic activists to promote practical solutions in key areas of residents’ lives.

We work to promote and advocate for a number of key issues:

Housing
We address absentee properties and work to prevent the displacement of long-standing residents. Secure and affordable housing is the foundation of belonging and community stability in Jaffa.
Heritage
Jaffa’s heritage is a rich mosaic of communities, generations, and stories. We believe that only through a deep understanding of the city’s diverse past can genuine and lasting partnership be built.
De-escalation of Conflict
Community resilience is measured by the ability to sustain trust during periods of tension. We work to strengthen personal safety and maintain the bonds of coexistence when they are most tested.
Community Crisis Support
When crisis strikes, communities need immediate and coordinated support. We provide interventions that help residents navigate emergencies while preserving social cohesion.
Conference on Shared Cities
We build frameworks and partnerships that advance Arab-Jewish cooperation at the local and national level. Jaffa’s story has the power to inspire shared cities everywhere.
Education for the Future
In partnership with civil society and academic institutions, we create opportunities for excellence and equality in education

What Drives Us

Misson

We serve as a dynamic platform bringing together residents and organizations into a civic coalition advocating for equality.

Vision

We aspire to position Jaffa as a national and global model for a vibrant, shared mixed city.

Our Guiding Values

Arab - Jewish Partnership

A deep commitment to all communities in Jaffa and their right to live with dignity and security.

Social Justice and Equality

A commitment to reducing disparities and ensuring fair access to rights and resources.

Recognition and Mutual Respect

Giving space to each community’s identity and heritage as an asset enriching Jaffa’s social fabric.

Grassroots Leadership

Empowering residents as architects of change through active and responsive leadership.

Leadership and Activists

Kulna Yaffa’s leadership reflects the human and cultural diversity of Jaffa. We believe that shared leadership combining professional experience with deep community connection is the key to building trust and sustainable change.