Ashdod School Principal Volunteers as Paramedic to Inspire Youth in Lifesaving Service

Irina Tyomkin, principal of the Tzemach Arts Elementary School in Ashdod, dedicates every Friday evening to volunteering as a paramedic with Magen David Adom (MDA), working demanding eight-hour ambulance shifts. Transitioning from school hallways to emergency response is a profound mission for her, as she aims to advance as a senior medic while continuing her volunteer work.

Tyomkin actively integrates her volunteer spirit into the school environment, organizing initiatives such as sending care packages to soldiers and volunteers and bringing MDA ambulances to the schoolyard to conduct enrichment and lifesaving activities for students. She emphasizes that leading by example is the strongest anchor in education, motivating youth to engage in giving and mutual responsibility.

Currently, about 15,000 teenagers aged 15 to 18 volunteer with MDA, comprising half of the organization's total volunteers. These young volunteers serve as first aid teams in ambulances and intensive care units and participate in humanitarian and community outreach activities. Each week, thousands of youths nationwide choose to set aside leisure time to take on challenging shifts, gaining life lessons in responsibility, compassion, calmness, and mutual support.

Tyomkin notes that when students see their school principal working alongside them in life-saving efforts, it transforms the educational connection and demonstrates the power of genuine education and the best of Israeli spirit.