The evening opened with a warm reception as visitors explored more than a dozen installations representing the students’ work. Each piece reflected a collaboration between a bereaved sibling and a group of teenage artists who had spent the summer together translating stories of loss into works of remembrance. Touchscreens placed beside each installation allowed guests to learn more about the fallen soldiers and victims whose memories inspired the art. As the crowd moved through the space—stopping to talk, listen, and reflect—a quiet sense of unity filled the museum.

Later that evening, the audience gathered in the Ed Snider Theater for a central performance featuring original songs, dance, film, and theater productions—all created by students who had channeled grief into creation. The result was both heartbreaking and uplifting, a shared act of mourning that also celebrated life, courage, and the human spirit.

The event was a joint initiative between the Ministry of Education and the organization, pairing high school students from 10 schools in arts and film programs with bereaved siblings from across the country. Together, they documented stories, explored memories, and created artistic works that preserve the legacies of those who fell or were killed in the events of October 7 and the war that followed.

“We are very excited and proud to lead this moving initiative in full partnership with the Ministry of Education,” said Elad Azulai, CEO of My Brother in My Heart. “It provides bereaved siblings with opportunities for processing, commemoration, and expression of their voices, while creating meaningful value by connecting young people to them during such a complex and emotional time.”

Speaking via a pre-recorded message, Minister of Education Yoav Kish added: “My Brother in My Heart is one of the most moving initiatives in our education system. Through art, students engage with the heart of the Israeli story—learning about heroism, loss, love, and hope—while giving bereaved siblings a gift of eternity. This is the essence of our education system: to teach mutual responsibility, connection, and identity.”

Among those in attendance were bereaved families, student creators, educators, local officials, and Education Ministry Director-General Meir Shimoni. Beyond its artistic significance, the evening became a rare moment of shared humanity—bringing together Jewish, Arab, and Druze participants to mourn collectively and to celebrate life’s endurance through creativity.

For the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem, hosting My Brother in My Heart was profoundly meaningful. The museum became more than just a venue—it became a space where grief found expression and where the voices of bereaved siblings were honored.

The creativity, dedication, and emotional depth on display left a lasting impression on all who attended. As the final performance drew to a close, the standing ovation felt less like applause and more like a collective act of remembrance.

This initiative reflects the Museum’s core mission: to foster understanding, empathy, and shared humanity. By uniting youth, families, and communities across Israel, My Brother in My Heart demonstrated the power of art to bridge divides, heal wounds, and keep the memories of our loved ones alive.