Interning in Tel Aviv with oosh.: Finding Purpose and Resilience Amid War

In June 2025, I arrived in Tel Aviv to intern with oosh., an Israeli startup curating gift boxes filled with local art, jewelry, Judaica, and more. Founded in the wake of the October 7th tragedies, oosh. was created to support Israeli artists and small businesses whose lives and livelihoods had been shaken. I came looking for work experience. What I found was something much deeper.

From day one, I felt immersed in something vibrant and alive. Tel Aviv revealed a side of itself I hadn’t seen before— not just its buzz and energy, but its soul.

The first few weeks were filled with creativity and joy. When our team met, we’d brainstorm ways to grow the brand and spotlight the powerful stories behind each makers. One of the highlights was visiting a local pottery studio, where artists shaped beautiful, functional pieces with care and intention. We planned to feature their work in an upcoming box— hoping to build a meaningful, lasting partnership. 

Outside of work,  I explored the city by foot — wandering through neighborhoods, sipping coffee in cafes, and stumbling upon  new favorite spots. I spent afternoons at the beach with friends, talking, swimming and soaking up the sun. At night, we’d meet up with other interns, dance, and hit our favorite bars. The nightlife was electric. What really stood out was how people continued to live with joy, even after everything they’d endured. Nothing felt forced. It was  real. It was full of heart.Just like the city itself.

Then, the war began.

For four nights, missiles fell on Tel Aviv — something the city had never experienced at this scale. Sirens rang out around 10 p.m. and returned every few hours. At first, it was terrifying. But somehow, we adapted. Our loft had a mamad (safe room) on the first floor. We had 90 seconds to run downstairs, lock the heavy door, and wait. 

In those moments — sitting on the floor, adrenaline rushing— my phone would light up with messages from friends: 

“That one was close.”

“Be safe.” 

“Shelter now.” 

“Come stay with us.” 

They checked in constantly, helping me feel less alone. 

After a few days, we relocated to the south, where it was quieter but still uncertain.. We waited in the sun, wondering whether we’d stay or be evacuated. At this point, the airspace was closed. 

A week later, we were evacuated by boat to Cyprus. It was sad to see the opportunity I’d been so excited about disappear so suddenly. But even in the chaos, I knew I wasn’t leaving empty-handed. This trip gave me something I hadn’t felt on previous visits to Israel — not just connection, but real belonging. 

oosh. reminded me that gifting isn’t just about what’s inside the box. It’s about people and showing up for them when it matters most.