Family Finds Unique Community Life in Negev Desert Settlement

The Ouspensky family, comprising Ronny (34), Rachali (33), and their five children, have found a unique lifestyle in Kedem Araba, a mixed religious and secular community in the Negev Desert. They currently reside in a 72-square-meter, four-room mobile home, paying under 3,000 shekels monthly for rent and expenses. With their youngest child recently born, the family is experiencing cramped conditions and plans to expand their living space as the community, which currently has 70 families and is still under development, receives building permits.

Ronny, who grew up religious but is now secular, and Rachali, who remains religious, chose Kedem Araba for its inclusive nature. Ronny noted the contrast with their previous home in the religious moshav of Nir Galim, where Shabbat was a significant event. In Kedem Araba, he stated, "if someone lights a barbecue on Shabbat, there's no problem." The family was drawn to the community's "good people" and the desert's "magic" and "quiet," despite the challenges of extreme summer heat, which causes many residents to leave.

Ronny, a former elite unit commander in the IDF, transitioned to civilian life as a sales manager for the high-tech company Matrix after serving for 1.5 years. He now works remotely from Kedem Araba, utilizing co-working spaces within the settlement. He explained his decision to leave the military during the war, stating it "put things into perspective" and led him to seek a career change, though he continues to serve in the reserves. Rachali, who previously worked as a caregiver, has been at home since her brother was killed in the war.

Inspired by a dream to start a small business, the family established "Khan Midora," a glamping site featuring air-conditioned tents and a secluded caravan rental. The venture gained unexpected fame when the production team for the new film "Giv'at Halpon" chose the site for filming, bringing actors like Eli Yatzpan and Shahar Hason to the remote location. The family also reported that their children have minor roles in the film. Despite the challenges, the family finds their economic situation stable, benefiting from lower living costs and tax breaks in the area, with fuel being their primary expense.