Erev Rosh Hashanah 5776

Isha L'IshaNewsletter IWD #5

Dear friends,

Nothing is better than starting the 5th issue of our Isha L'Isha newsletter with the moving testimony of one of our Mifgash participant.

Please receive our very sweet and warm Shana Tovah wishes!

Nelly and Marcelo

And the Mifgash came to an end…We started to arrive, from all the corners of the world, in a total of 45 women, happy to participate in another international gathering of the Women’s Division of Keren Hayesod. The venue couldn’t be nicer, surrounded by flowers in gorgeous colors; and the hotel, a beautiful piece of architecture built at the top of the Jerusalem Hills, at 800m above sea level, surrounded by beautiful vineyards.

We were received by the International President, “our” Nelly de Bobrow, with the International Director, Marcelo Goldin, with big white hats to protect us against the unmerciful sun, and colorful bags, amidst the happiness of meeting again friends from other congresses, in other latitudes. Since the very first moment, a lot of excitement and expectation were in the air.

The event per se started with a warm up meeting where we introduced ourselves, and Marcelo asked us to share an unknown, picturesque aspect of our lives. Very funny things came up, other more serious, but it was very good as an indication of the tone of what we were going to experience in that Mifgash.

Thereupon, the WD International Board met at closed doors to vote the destinies of the organization in the coming three years, wherefrom our dear Nelly came out unanimously reelected by the 14 attending international Campaign presidents. That was an indication of approval to the direction Nelly has been giving to the International Women’s Division, among other things opening four new world Campaigns only in the last year.

Whoever already participated in KH congresses and missions in Israel, knows about the excellence and care in their organization and attention down to the minimal details. But besides all that, this Mifgash had the luck to count on a group of women who were very seasoned together, besides being very much involved in their work and very sure of their Judaism. And besides, very funny despite our age span going from young ladies with small children, all the way up to much older ladies with great-grandchildren. Yet, we formed a well-oiled team, much united around our common ideal – the wellbeing of our less favored brethren and meeting the most urgent social needs of the State of Israel.

We listened with great interest to the Campaign presentations, their difficulties, and their outcomes. The successes and impeccable organization of the Australian Campaign, that left us all mouthwatering; the exemplar success of the tireless work of our São Paulo Campaign; the overall and multifaceted problems of an European continent whipped by economic instability; the severe anti-Semitic problems faced by France; the painstaking ant-work made of the Hungarian WD to rescue the Jewish and Zionist sparks in the heart of Hungarian Jews; the trailblazing work of a young ‘paulista’ woman to bring back to life the Amsterdam Campaign; the beautiful productive work of only 8 women of the Guatemala WD in a community with mere 800 Jews; the ever present Chile; Argentina and its thrilling Keren Hayesod-Israel School Competition; the industrious Campaign of Colombia; the calm Jewish life in Uruguay; the Milan struggle; the historic Women’s Division of Mexico; the victorious Madrid leadership; the sad reality of Venezuela, unfortunately…

And we went out to visit our projects. What an accomplishment… It was difficult to hold back our emotions when visiting the Aleh-Negev Rehab Center of Nahalat Eran that cares for adults and children with severe physical and cognitive deficiencies. Or listen to the experiences and thoughts of a hardened Israeli mother in the meeting with Rachel Fraenkel, mother of Naftali Fraenkel, z”l, kidnapped and murdered with two other boys, last year. We shared the dreams and risks taken by entrepreneur women living in the Southern part of Israel, a region that is a constant target for Gaza’s deadly missiles. A moment of excitement and Jewish pride, which filled our hearts with joy, was the visit to an IDF Special Forces unit, which operates right behind enemy lines using advanced technology and arms that they themselves adapt. Many were ‘Lone Soldiers”, who immigrate without their families and are supported by KH programs. Gorgeous young men and women, who resembled our sons and our granddaughters, we were fluttered, agitated, lining up for photos… But there was a ‘but’… our cameras and mobiles had stayed outside the base… That place was highly confidential.

We also attended workshops to prepare us how to better plan and conduct our Campaigns, with specialized KH directors. Our Shabat was very inspiring, lively and fraternal in the company of the Reym Duo, who sang Shabat zmirot and was accompanied by all the participants. As to spirituality, the highlight was at Motza’ê Shabat, the end of Shabat, after the Havdalah under the sky, in a balcony, with the Duo Reym, when we went to the Kotel, in Jerusalem. We were received by Rav Shmuel Rabinowitz, Chief Rabbi of the Kotel HaMaaravi, at the Aish HaTorah Yeshivah, with the Shechecheyanu blessing and the sound of a musical keyboard. The intense cold practically froze our tears. We also toured the Wall’s tunnels, reaching the closest point to the Kodesh ha-Kodashim, the Holy of Holies, according to the experts. We were very quiet in our return to the Hotel, our hearts calmed with all those feelings warming our hearts and populating our mind. We still had three days more of Mifgash. But everything was already so complete...

With warm regards,

Lilia Wachsmann

Isha L'Isha

The Argentina's WD is a fundamental pillar of the institution, generating projects that placed Israel in the center of the Jewish identity, and with special emphasis on the strengthening of Jewish-Zionist education.

In recent months, under the chairpersonship of Dr. Shula Silberstein, generated different projects and participated in various events that reflect their commitment and dedication. Outstanding was its participation in the event commemorating the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the organization of a conference with a Jaial Boded (Lone Soldier) and the presentation of the book "Will be the life" of Jaime Jacubovich. The Division also had an active participation in the 2015 opening campaign event, giving full support where necessary.

On the other hand, eager to continue betting on change and education, the Women's Division has already several projects on agenda. Before long, it will carry out for the fourth consecutive year a Solidarity Burako Tournament and a performance of the "Franz and Kafka" play, both for the benefit of the project of "All to Shule" scholarships.

In addition, the Division prepares a new edition of Jidon KH, which will take place in November. The Division is also generating a new project for boys at age of Bar and Bat Mitzvá with different synagogues and communities.

Finally, noteworthy is the support and constant commitment to all events developed by the United Campaign, without considering the time or efforts required. The Women's Division continues proving to be a crucial gear in the engine of our institution.

Isha L'Isha

L-R: Nicky Ovsejevich, Lili Lerner, Leda Junowicz, Noam Guershoni, Shula Silberstein, Zuli Dreispiel

First on the right: Mrs. Juana de Jonge , DF representing in the memorial ceremony of the release of Auschwitz

with other institutions

L-R: Nicky Ovsejevich, Shula Silberstein, Lili Lerner, Coca Kaczka, Marta Bradichansky, Elda Sztern

Bottom row: Berta Gutmacher, Raquel Friedman, Laura Lisman

L-R: Coca Kaczka, Poppy Abolsky, Yoly Kohen, Nicky Ovsejevich, Lili Lerner , Lone Soldier: Elial Cohen Saban, Raquel Friedman,

Raquel Domber, Jana Koifman

Argentina - Buenos Aires

What a fabulous day! Over 450 young alumni, whose first home in Israel was at the Nurit Absorption Centre, were given the opportunity to attend a “Coming Home Reunion”. Sydney Women's Division has supported the centre since 1999 and the “Australian ladies” were remembered from visits over the years with appreciation. Our support “opened doors” - introducing them to computers, the celebration of their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs in Jerusalem and infrastructural improvements at the Centre.

On the day a focus group was created to assess and evaluate the effect and influence the Centre had on their lives and an Opportunities Fair offered information and possible prospects. This was followed by a food fair including Ethiopian delicacies provided by Efrat Assefa-Dawit – wife of our previous Executive Director, Fentahun.

After the formalities a dance party, with music by a top Ethiopian group “Hot Black Coffee” had these incredible young Israelis dancing well into the night.

Co-Chairmen Bev Michaelis and Judy Stromer shared this emotional and unforgettable day with Federal President Penny Hurst OAM and the feelings of affection, wonderful memories and the joy of re-connection was palpable.

We will be holding 2 Boardroom lunches over the next 2 weeks. The first one with our State Government treasurer to which all our ladies will be invited. Then we are privileged to have Prof Avishai Braverman in Australia and our Executive and Major Donors will be invited to hear him on “Israel – what is its purpose – Survival or Tikkun Olam”.

With warm wishes for a Shana Tova and a time of peace for Israel.

Australia - Sydney

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L-R: Judith Stromer, Bev Michaelis

L-R: Judy Stromer, Penny Hurst OAM, Bev Michaelis

The Rio de Janeiro Women’s Division groups Golda Meir and Lion of Judah opened 2015 with a series of four events. An interesting lecture by the former Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, which was organized by the Lion of Judah group, together with the Major Donors group opened it. “Politics seen through the prism of literature” and “Current Events, anti-Semitism and the answers of Keren Hayesod”, were the topics of the two events promoted by group Golda Meir. Closing this cycle, the Lion of Judah group held a breakfast party, with a talk by the founders of the Israeli startup, i Angels.

Some 70 people had the privilege to participate in a meeting with one of the most prominent personalities in Israel, former Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz. The event was held at the home of Leonor and José Luiz Messer, when Lt. Gen. Gantz shared moments of his professional trajectory, his experiences and delighted all the attendants with his conviction that peace is the only way to be pursued.

Golda Meir’s 2015 Campaign opening was held on April 12, with the presence of 60 guests at the home of Claudia C. Chor, president of the Rio de Janeiro Women’s Division. A very inspiring gathering held together two renowned writers: the “carioca” novelist Adriana Armony and the Israeli Ambassador to Brazil, Mr. Reda Mansour, who is Druze. The evening’s topic was “Politics seen through the prism of Literature”.

Yoel Embon, Keren Hayesod Latin American Director, was the guest of honor of the Golda Meir group’s second event, on July 8. “Current Events, anti-Semitism and the answers of Keren Hayesod” were the issues covered by Embon during the meeting, which was held at the home of Rina Avigdor, with some 60 women.

“Entrepreneurism and opportunities” was the topic of the lecture on July 21, organized by Lion of Judah and Major Donors. Mor Assia and Shelly Hod Moyal, founders of the Israeli startup i Angels spoke on the success of the Israeli innovation companies and the wealth of opportunities that there are in this market.

Brazil - Rio de Janeiro

L-R: Simone Rothstein, Ilan Goldman, Adriana Armony

L-R: Claudia C. Chor, Simone Rothstein

L-R: Adriana Armony, Simone Rothshtein, Reda Mansour

L-R: Monica Schreiber, Carina Fogel Gewerc, Luciana Nasajon, Claudia C. Chor,

Simone Rothstein, Luciana Jaroslavsky,Simone Dyskant Flomin,

Gisele Uderman Garfinkel, Simone Britz

L-R: Adriana Armony, Simone Rothshtein, Reda Mansour, Monica Schreiber

L-R: Liliane Liquornik, Claudia C. Chor, Lilian Thomer, Monica Schreiber,

Rina Avigdor Hasky

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The new São Paulo Women’s Division board, chaired by Shirley Bidlovski launched the 2015 Campaign with prestigious opening events. Our donors had the privilege to listen to the former Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, who was interviewed by the renowned Israeli journalist, Yoav Limor.On March 25, Simone Schapira Wajman, Women’s Division Vice President hosted an afternoon party at her home, when the members of the WD had a very fruitful and informative meeting with Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz.

On the evening of March 26, Marcia and Daniel Borger offered a dinner party for our Lion of Judah friends and Major Donors, with the presence of Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, who addressed the audience with interesting facts from his career.

Activists of the Chai Group held a “Chug Bait” at the home of Stela Waintraub. Nelly de Bobrow opened the meeting and passionately explained the work and goals of KH and Women’s Division, involving the new activists with our cause.

Brazil - São Paulo

L-R: Frida Dayan, Shirley Bidlovski, Benny Gantz, Simone Wajman, Yoav Limor, Claudio Bobrow

L-R: Veronica, Daniel & Marcia Borger, Revital & Benny Gantz, Esther Sztamfater, Helena Brand

L-R: Joyce Teperman, Adriana Taub , Claudia Ochman

IWD President, Nelly de Bobrow at Stela Wainreaub's home

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In the afternoon of May 14, WD activists had an interesting meeting with Dora Oppenheim, writer of “Cartas Lacradas”, at the home of Goldeti Glass.

On May 18, a new WD group was created. It is formed by women who became Lion of Judah after participating in the “Adult March of the Living”. They were very moved to see the important work Women’s Divisions carry out in Israel and the projects we work for.

The monthly classes with Journalist Jaime Spitzcovsky were resumed after mid-year vacations and attract more and more public!

Mifgash 2015The SP Women’s Division was very well represented at the IWD Mifgash 2015, with 10 activists from São Paulo. Our president, Shirley Bidlovski opened the celebrations of the SP Women’s Division 30th anniversary offering all participants a pair of “Havaianas” – flip-flops, with the heart and Star of David, our symbol.

Isha L'Isha

WD activists with Dora Openheim

L-R: Rosanne Majtlis, Greg Masel, Sandra Lewkowicz, Grace Zolko, Simone Schapira Wajman and Shay Maor

Mifgash 2015

Women’s philanthropy spring event -

On April 29, 727 women attended a sold out event with the Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro at the Plaza Centre Ville. Co-chaired by Erica Diamond, Tina Dubrovsky and Debby Newpol, this was a great outreach event for Women’s Philanthropy. As an Off-Campaign event, we invited all women in the community to a “girls’ night out” without the obligation of making a campaign donation. Having such a large group of women in the room presented a great opportunity to deliver a strong community message including our “Sisters By Choice” video and facts about Women’s Philanthropy on every table, including volunteering opportunities, programming information and facts about the needs of the community. The response to Buddy’s presentation was phenomenal. Buddy’s involvement with a wide range of charitable organizations has made him a philanthropic pillar within his community, demonstrating to all his fans the power of giving back. He told his story of how he became the Cake Boss and delivered a powerful message about giving back to the community and helping the less fortunate as he and his family do and the lessons his children have learned from helping others. The audience was captivated by Buddy’s cake decorating demonstrations and his wonderful personality and humour.

As a special treat, Buddy’s assistant Gabrielle held a separate event the next day which was a hands-on cupcake decorating demonstration. 60 women came to watch Gabrielle decorate cupcakes and then decorated their own which they took home and enjoyed.

Lion of Judah spring event -

On June 2, 54 women boarded a bus to Ottawa, Ontario for a day of touring and meeting with political figures. Lion of Judah donors are deeply interested in social and political issues affecting the Jewish and global communities and were offered a great day of programming and camaraderie. Co-chaired by Arlene Abitan and Wendy Spatzner, the sold out event in our nation’s capital offered a visit to the Supreme Court of Canada or two highly sought after art tours. Lunch was at the prestigious Rideau Club with guest speakers Laureen Harper, wife of Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Senator Linda Frum and General Counsel and Senior Government Advisory for CIJA, Richard Marceau. Issues affecting the Jewish community and the political landscape were discussed while lunch was enjoyed in a beautiful setting. After lunch, the women walked to the

Canada - Montreal

L-R standing: Adriana Kotler, Rhoda Vineberg, Sandy Martz, Osnat Feldman, Cheryl Brownstein

L-R seated:Patricia Lallouz Malka, Wendy Spatzner, Laureen Harper, Karen Soussan, Marla Ptack Weinstein

L-R standing: Elaine Dubrovsky, Senator Linda Frum, Laureen Harper, Arlene Sternthal, Heather Paperman

L-R seated: Mona Golfman, Sandra Agulnik, Sue Carol Isaacson, Arlène Abitan

Isha L'Isha

Parliament building where they met with Members of Parliament who shared their stories and experiences of their political lives. It was a great privilege to be able to have all these phenomenal speakers give their time from their busy schedules to share their exceptional stories with the group.

In addition to fundraising events, Women’s Philanthropy also had success with their outreach and volunteer programs. So far this year, we have had three Lunch & Learn events. The topics included a Jewish woman’s escape from Iran, Emotional Intelligence and how to sell yourself and your ideas. These lunches are typically attended by 20-40 women. The setting is small and intimate and the feedback is always positive.

The Women’s Philanthropy Tikun Olam Volunteer (TOV) programs also continued going strong in 2014 and 2015. The Lunch for a Bunch program grew leaps and bounds this year. Lunches are packed and delivered by volunteers every Tuesday and Thursday morning to more than 100 children in need in Montreal Jewish and public schools.

Our upcoming TOV program, Pack it Up, will be taking place August 19 and will offer volunteers the opportunity to collaborate on Tikun Olam programs that serve people in need in our community. The goal of the project is to send 500 children of families supported by Federation CJA back to school in September with new supplies, inspiring and motivating them to have a successful school year despite their underprivileged circumstances. Our major goal for the Pack It Up Program is to ensure that all children derive the maximum benefit from their education. The success of our program will ensure that for 500 children from vulnerable families, the first days of school will not carry its usual disappointments. Imagine a child, who for the first time, has all new school supplies just like all of their classmates! Donations are collected from the community who are invited to do some extra school supply shopping for a child in need and drop off their donated items at our office as well as donations received from manufacturers and suppliers of school supplies.

The TOV Yom Yocheved Clothing Giveaway will be held on September 20 and is an opportunity for less advantaged families to select new clothing for their children and shop in a dignified manner in a comfortable, stress free retail environment. Last year we were able to help over 500 children by ensuring that they had appropriate clothing for the winter season. This helped reduce the strain on these families’ budgets, and offered them peace of mind knowing that their children will be warm and comfortable as the temperature drops. All the clothing is donated by members of the community in the clothing business, focusing our requests on children’s wear manufactures and distributors, asking for a donation of children’s and teen clothing, specifically for the fall and winter. Volunteers come in the day of the event to help the families go through the racks of clothing and choose what is most suitable for their children.

Isha L'Isha

The Lion of Judah group in front of the Parliament building

L-R standing: Joanna Yufe-Naimer, Gilda Abdulezer, Arlene Yufe, Laureen Harper, Judy Wolfe, Joyce Tanner,

Linda Balass-Nassim

L-R seated: Heather Adelson, Jewel Lowenstein, Sharon Appotive (Chair Women's Campaign in Ottawa)

First 2015 “Noon Meeting”:Participants at the luncheon organized by the Women’s Division of Keren Hayesod-Chile had a very enriching gathering, last May, with the presence of Batia Eldad, wife of the Ambassador of Israel in Chile, Rafael Eldad. Participants had the opportunity to visit the newly inaugurated Interactive Jewish Museum of Chile, located at the Circulo Israelita de Santiago. They also listened to Prof. Gachi Waingortin’s interesting lecture on “Maimonides: A Masorti Jew?” The moving event was the proper venue for the handing over of the “Lev Chai” recognition brooches to Dalia Pollak, Nancy Goldstein, Carolina Lanis and Pepi Tobías, for expressing their commitment to the Jewish People. We had the great pleasure of having three generations of women of the Pollak family with us, as a proof of continuity in the Women’s Division work

“Lion of Judah” Recognition: At a meeting in the home of the Israeli Ambassador in Chile, Mr. Rafael Eldad, KH Women’s Division handed over the “Lion of Judah” brooch and certificate to one of its donors, who has indicated with her donations the place that Israel has in her heart. She thanked wholeheartedly this important recognition, but requested to remain anonymous. Yona Pollak, President of the WD and Batia Eldad handed over the brooch and certificate to this lady.

The War in Ukraine and the alarming intensification of anti-SemitismThe Chilean WD of Keren Hayesod established as one of its goals to explain to the Jewish community, as clearly as possible, its concern with the traumatic experience that Ukrainian Jews are undergoing, and support the hundreds of families in their Aliyah process. One of the activities that are part of this real crusade of the WD was the second 2015 “Noon Meeting”, held during the month of July. In this occasion, Professor Miguel Villarroel spoke about the topic “Ukraine: Its divisions and current projection. The danger in which Jews live”. The KH Women’s Division Chile decided to support our brethren who are in danger, giving them all the backing they need to make their Aliyah and get to a safe haven, as President Yona Pollak explained.

Chile

Attending “Noon Meetings” last May, during the visit to the Chilean Interactive Jewish Museum, in the

premises of the CIS

Gachy Waingortin during her lecture

Professor Miguel Villarroel, of the University of Chile, receives a gift from Yoná Pollak, WD President; and

Jorge Stern, representative of KH in Chile

A large number of people attended both “Noon Meetings”

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The French Women’s division has organized an auction of 24 paintings, sculptures and photographs that were graciously donated by the artists.

The auction was held at the Israeli Ambassador to France residence, Mr. Yossi Gal, in Paris.

Richard and Anna Prasquier were present as well as Judith Oks, Yoan Smadja, Rebecca Jacquin of course and all of Keren Hayessod’s WD activists in Paris.

80 persons participated in this event which was a great success as all was sold out!!!

Keren Hayessod France organized this June 30th 2015 a private event at Judith and Michel Oks ‘s residence in Paris. Approximately 70 people participated at this event including important donors and activists. David and Sarena Koschitzy were invited to Paris for this occasion.

This event was organized to celebrate the end for the mission of SE Yossi Gal, Ambassador of Israel in France.

It was planned to surprise three women and to offer them the “Lion of Judas” during this event.

These three amazing women were Eva Liss, Anna Prasquier and Rebecca Jacquin (president of the WD France). It was a very and real surprise for them with a lot of emotion.

David Koschitzy procured them with the delivered certificate and SE Yossi Gal gave them the “Lion of Judas”.

Every person participating in this event rejoiced with these three wonderful ladies.

It was a very nice event.

France - Paris

Judith Oks, Rebecca Jacquin, Se Yossi Gal

Yoan Smadja

Richard Prasquier ; Rebecca Jacquin

Rebecca Jacquin and all the WD activists

Isha L'Isha

The Guatemala Women's Division Campaign, under the chairmanship of the new president Betty Turon, held a retiring and new presidents event on August 2nd, at the house of Mrs. Dina Nathusius, Vice-President of Latin America at the International Women's Division of Keren Hayesod and Mr. Mario Nathusius, the Guatemala Campaign president, in the present of Mr. Eliezer (Moodi) Sandberg world chairman, who gave a lecture during the event, his wife Einat, Mr. Moshe Bachar, Israeli Ambassador in Guatemala, Mr. George Tenenbaum the Jewish community president in Guatemala, donors, family members and friends.

Mr. Mario Nathusius opened the event by saying welcome words and after them, two Keren Hayesod's movies were screened: an annual movie and a movie about Net@ - a KH project.

Some photos of this year's Guatemala campaign projects were shown: two shelters and two Net@ projects, Mrs. Dina Nathusius and Mr. Mario Nathusius were given a present for their contribution for the success of the Net@ project.

While the event there was a film screened for the honor of Mrs. Deedie Karake, the former President of the Guatemala campaign, who also spoke for the occasion, Mrs. Betty Turon, the new president of the Guatemala campaign said some things and Mrs. Dina Nathusius gave Deedie a retiring president pin as well as a certificate to thank her for her work as a president.

Guatemala

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L-R: Deedie Karake, Dina Nathusius

L-R: Deedie Karake, Dina Nathusius, Eliezer (Moodi) Sandberg

R-L: Diana Selecnick, Rebeca Permuth de Sabbag, Saly Tenenbaum, Einat Sandberg, Deedie Karake,

Dina Nathusius, Betty Turon, Eliezer (Moodi) Sandberg, Moshe Aviv, Sofia Ben-Or

Betty Turon

Isha L'IshaHolland Successful "First Hug" in Amsterdam

The new Amsterdam Women's Division, chaired by Carla Aronson, held two events in early September, both dedicated to the “First Hug” project.

On 2 September, First Hug director, Mrs. Sivan Palevitch, presented the project to a large group of Israeli women living in Holland who haven't been involved in Keren Hayesod activities. The event, held at the main office, was designed to familiarize them with the Keren Hayesod initiatives. Guest speaker, Dr. Aline Sprikkelman, discussed pediatrics.

The following day, 3 September, Hadassa and Rob Voet opened their home to another group of people. After an introduction to First Hug by Mrs. Palevitch, noted pediatric specialist Prof. Hugo Heymans spoke about the tremendous significance of this project for babies’ development.

L-R: Mrs. Sivan Palevitch, President, First Hug project, Mrs. Carla Aronson, President, IWD Holland

Carla Aronson speaks to the women at the event

About 50 women participated in the luncheon hosted at her apartment with a beautiful terrace, by Loulou Arazi, member of the board, on June 4th. They were all delighted by the food she prepared herself with the help of her daughters, also active members of WD.

Francesca Modiano, WD president, explained the Youth Futures project which Milan supports for the second year, telling also real stories of success. Then she lounched the WD’s new long-term goal: a recipe book. Women were enthusiast about the idea and willing to help in the next monthes.

Italy - Milan

L-R: Rosa Djemal, Elena Grego, Rina Djemal, Yvette Metta, Sheila Sutton, Brigitte Abadi Lawi, Etty Nissim, Valentina tesoro, Monica Metta, Bettina Peres, Loulou Arazi, Francesca Modiano.In front: Mimi Galante, Jacqueline Harari and Edith Arazi Sale

L-R: Silvia Heffetz, Yvette Metta, Rina Djemal L-R: Edith Arazi Sale, Linda Mouhadab Arazi, Lara Arazi Pepe

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The period of the year that ended recently was full of activities that enriched us profoundly and gave us the energy to go on with our work.

On May 5, we had the pleasure to receive Mr. Yoel Embon in our Board meeting. He explained us very clearly the current situation in Israel. He also spoke about the new KH projects. His talk gave us the tools for a better performance in our work.

Our group visited the city of Monterrey. This community, which is strongly committed to Israel, is undergoing a very strong crisis. In previous years, many of our Lion of Judah ladies belonged to this community. As a result of the growing lack of security, many families immigrated to Mexico City or to Miami, due to the loss of strength and motivation. Our friend Dani, together with the Women’s Division gave a workshop in Monterrey: “How to recover the strength and identity in the small communities of the Diaspora”, giving them some tools to bring the community back to life. He also shared with them many projects of Keren Hayesod, showing them where the money goes. It was extremely gratifying.

Dani Alaluf also participated in the WD Board meeting. With the workshop “Why donating to Israel, our so successful State?”, he gave us the tools to continue with our so laudable work.

Mexico - Mexico City

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L-R: Grace Beja, Thalia Tartakovski, Yoel Embon, Malke Izbitzki, Janine Becker

Dani Alaluf with Women’s Division.

In the month of June, we organized the conference “The Son of Hamas”, with Mosab Hassan Yussef. Due to the great interest, we had to hold 3 lectures, with a total audience of 2,500 people. This event was not part of our Campaign Opening, but it was considered an Important Keren Hayesod Event. As part of the program we showed a video with the work of KH. The event was a total success and it once again placed KH in the top of mind of all attendees.

As part of the Educational Project of KH Women’s Division, the Committee of Education held a course for the Morot of the schools of the Jewish Education school network in Mexico. The teachers committed themselves to take the course for 2 years. As part of the course they spend the month of April in Israel. They also have to sign a contract with the schools to continue working for 3 more years with them. As part of the course they receive material to explain to the children what is Keren Hayesod and the importance to help Israel and why.

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L-R: Thalia Tartakovsky, President of Womens Division, MexicoMartha Flisser, Coordinator of Lion of Judeah

Mosab Hassan Yussef

L-R: Leon Shteremberg, Thalia Tartakovski, Andy Weisner, Mosab Hassan Yusef, Mauricio Kershenobich

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Cape Town Lions of Judah Summer 2015

Yael Malka is an inspirational young woman from Paris who has invested her infectious and passionate energy into building the Jewish Community there.

She recently visited Cape Town and met with the local chapter of the Lions of Judah at a breakfast gathering. The Marly boutique Hotel in Camps Bay, played gracious hosts to this forum.

Yael is driven, innovative and dynamic young woman who is passionate about her community and global Jewry. As such she had created many new initiatives that have positively impacted on the Jewish community she serves in Paris. These include successful Inter Generational Project, “Ben Dori” and Jewish Networking, Mentoring and Training initiatives “ProAct” –which gather Jewish young Professionals around their professional activities.

Yael also participated in the Keren Hayesod International Leadership and Entrepreneurship Programme. She also was involved in the Parisian recreation of our local “The Shabbos Project” with a large Challah Bake taking place in Paris. Born in Strasbourg on the same day as Armstrong walked on the moon - July 20th – albeit several years after, she has the approach in life to see beyond the limits and believes strongly that anything can be put in motion if we have the will. She maintains: “My dream was to become an astronaut ... I’ve not yet been on the moon ... but I’m making the moon on earth, with various initiatives in the Jewish community and professional environment.”

The event provided the perfect opportunity to present the newest Lions, Denise Dogon & Terry Locketz with their Lion of Judah pins and certificates.

South Africa - Cape Town

Nina Kovensky with Terry LocketzYael MalkaDenise Dogon with Nina Kovensky

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Rosh Hashana Cards from Jerusalem

In a beautiful initiative for the holidays, the Women’s Division of Geneva is selling Rosh Hashana cards especially designed by kids from the Youth Futures Jerusalem program. The cards, which may be ordered by members and sent to their friends with a personal message, note that a donation was made to Youth Futures Jerusalem in their honor. This popular project started a few years ago.

Switzerland - Geneva

Venezuela

Venezuela´s WD toast for Rosh Hashanah

Shana Tova!

שנהטובה!