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Masa Israel Journey celebrates achievements of 12 Jewish women for International Women’s Day

The campaign honors the pioneering and innovative women committed to advancing a brighter future.

International Women's Day logo. Credit: Courtesy.
International Women’s Day logo. Credit: Courtesy.

In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, Masa Israel Journey is proud to recognize 12 remarkable Jewish women for their leadership. Masa is committed to helping young Jewish adults realize their potential while also connecting to their heritage in hopes to inspire the next generation of Jewish leaders and empower women across the globe.

These women come from a variety of personal and professional backgrounds, from education and advocacy to community-building. They have bolstered businesses, launched innovations and through their dedication created meaningful impacts that will uplift generations to come. Thanks to these trailblazers, there are now more opportunities for women in both private and philanthropic sectors.

This year’s honorees are Amy Albertson, Jewish advocate and educator; Meara Ashtivker, New York director of PJ Library; Heidi Gantwerk, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of San Diego County; Shiri Madar, CEO of Habonim Dror; Lori Palatnik, founding director of Momentum; Danit Peleg, 3D-printed digital fashion designer; Rachel Sasiene, manager of the Israel Action and Addressing Antisemitism Program at Hillel International; Emily Schrader, CEO of Social Lite Creative, journalist and video host and producer; Jane Sherman, Jewish philanthropist; Veronica Siegel, Jewish educator; Adeena Sussman, cookbook author and culinary consultant; Mandie Winston, CEO of United Jewish Israel Appeal.

“Being recognized by Masa is such an honor; it is a testament to the hard work I have put in to make the Jewish community more diverse, visible and proud,” said Albertson. “It is especially meaningful to me, as an Asian-American Jewish woman, to have my efforts acknowledged and appreciated, and to know I am part of a group of amazing women who are championing the cause of Jewish diversity.”

To learn more about the honorees, visit: Masa’s Inspiring 12.

About & contact the publisher
Masa Israel Journey is the largest immersive, long-term educational experience for young adults ages 16 to 40. On its programs that range from two months to a year, Masa offers an authentic, unmediated, and challenging journey into Israeli society, culture, politics and history—and acts as the largest provider for global Jewry to access the finest Israeli businesses, social enterprises and academic institutions. Since its 2004 founding by the Jewish Agency and the government of Israel, Masa has served more than 200,000 young people from 60-plus countries.
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