Mekonen​

Mekonen: The Journey of an African Jew is a mini-documentary that follows the personal journey of Mekonen Abebe, a young African immigrant to Israel, as he returns to Ethiopia to explore his roots, make peace with his past and embrace his future in Israel.

On a broader level, the film is about the integration process Ethiopian Jews experience in Israel’s multi-cultural society, especially through the Israel Defense Force (IDF), referred to as the “social equalizer of Israeli culture.” Many Westerners are not aware that Ethiopian Jews exist, let alone serve in the Israeli army and integrate into Israeli society.

Mekonen’s personal story, as he rises through the ranks of the IDF to become a commander, will serve as a source of inspiration, letting others know that no matter where you come from, with the right tools you can succeed.