ORT JUMP international careers challenge

The ORT JUMP International Careers Challenge took place in Italy this year.

10 UK students teamed up with teens from across the World ORT global network, including participants from World ORT Kadima Mada’s Kfar Youth Village in Israel, as well as students from Spain and South Africa.

The aim of the challenge was to develop key employability skills such as collaboration, research, project management, entrepreneurship, time-management, creative thinking and pitching. The students worked in mixed teams, guided by industry experts and were tasked with designing an innovative and sustainable solution to an urban agricultural issue.

Drawing inspiration from the history and culture in Rome and Milan, the teams worked night and day to design their projects and the results were incredible. Together they tackled food shortages, water waste, poverty, crime and community spirit!

ORT UK Chair, Annette Kurer, who was one of the judges said, “I was so impressed with the incredibly innovative, engaging, and thought-provoking presentations. The students developed a vast range of employability skills which will enhance their ability to engage and promote themselves as they progress their careers. ORT UK bridges the gap between school and the workplace, and we will work across the ORT global network to implement their wonderful ideas for greater sustainability, resource management and community engagement.”

Watch this space for information about the ORT JUMP International Careers Challenge 2025 or email jump@ortuk.org for more information.

UK participant piece

Thank you for watching my video of the ORT JUMP International Careers Challenge (ICC) 2024.

My name is Miriam, and I am currently in my first year of A-levels studying creative media production.

This summer I was one of the lucky students chosen to go to Milan and Rome to take part in the ICC trip based around urban agriculture.

Over the course of the week, we learnt a lot, developed ideas, built friendships, explored Italy and ate lots of pizza and pasta. The trip allowed me to develop my confidence, problem-solving skills, resilience and creativity. Additionally, it has helped me to develop the skills I need when taking the next steps in starting my career.

During this amazing experience, I was given the opportunity to edit the ICC 2024 video. This was very special, as it supported me to grow my skillset in the field of work I want to enter.

In future, I am hoping to either do a degree-level apprenticeship or an internship within the creative media industry, which will help me gain experience and grow my portfolio, so I can achieve my dream career.

I cannot recommend the International Careers Challenge enough.

Watch Miriams Short Film