IWF Israel Events
The 2023 IWF Israel Award
Honoring Dr. Yofi Tirosh
Dr. Yofi Tirosh is a leading legal scholar, feminist advocate, and social activist.
As Vice Dean at Tel Aviv University’s Faculty of Law, she pioneers gender equality and anti-discrimination law in Israel.
A trailblazer in feminist legal thought, she combines academic research with impactful activism, leading the fight against women’s exclusion from public spaces. Over the past decade, she has been a driving force in shaping public awareness and policy.
Beyond academia, Tirosh serves on government committees and human rights organizations, influencing legal and ethical frameworks. Often called a “one-woman human rights organization”, she tirelessly advances justice and equality.
Dr. Tirosh is a visionary leader, courageous advocate, and force for change, shaping Israel’s legal and social landscape.
The 2024 IWF Israel Award
Honoring Lt. Col. Or Ben Yehuda
The IWF Israel Award for 2024 is presented to Lt. Col. Or Ben Yehuda, a distinguished IDF officer and trailblazing leader who has redefined women’s roles in military command.
As Commander of the Caracal Battalion, she has led with courage, resilience, and strategic vision. She was the first female cadet in the Gafen Battalion officer course and later the first company commander in the Lahav Combat Officer Course. Her bravery was recognized in 2015, when she received the Southern Command Citation and the IDF Chief of Staff’s Award for Excellence.
On October 7, 2023, stationed at the Egyptian border, she made a critical decision to close a key route, preventing further attacks. She joined forces with combat units beyond her designated area, leading her soldiers to Sufa Outpost, where they fought valiantly to halt Hamas' offensive.
A visionary leader and role model, Lt. Col. Ben Yehuda embodies intelligence, bravery, and determination. She has paved the way for countless women in the military and security forces, proving that leadership knows no boundaries. We honor her for her exceptional service and unwavering commitment to Israel’s security.
Honoring Attorney Yael Vias Gvirsman
Webinar on Women on the Frontline - February 2024 in collaboration with INSS Institute for National Security Studies
For over two decades, Attorney Yael Vais Gibertzman has been a leader in international criminal law and human rights. A graduate of Utrecht University with honors, she was the first Israeli lawyer to directly litigate before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.
Following the October 7 attacks, Yael founded October 7 Justice, an independent initiative ensuring justice for victims and their families. She has led legal action against those responsible, forging partnerships with experts and survivors to preserve evidence, conduct investigations, and initiate judicial proceedings- all without government funding. Since October 15 , 2023, Yael has represented over 250 families of hostages, missing persons, and victims. By October 31, she had already filed the first legal claim on behalf of October 7 victims in The Hague.
She continues to lead delegations of victims to testify before ICC investigators and maintains direct contact with court officials.Yael is driven by a deep sense of historical responsibility, believing that a legal ruling from an authoritative court will establish the truth- that the October 7 attacks were crimes against humanity, including murder, torture, and sexual violence against innocent civilians.
Webinar: Women on the Frontline
In collaboration with the INSS- February 2024
The Institute for National Security Studies and the Israel chaper of the IWF hosted a conference on the current reality that has places women in the front lines, and addressed different aspects of the impact of the ongoing was on women in Israel.
Webinar: Women in healthcare- May 2024
Insightful conference focusing on the unique challenges faced by women leading health institutions during the current reality in Israel- how women doctors at the healthcare arena navigate these extraordinary circumstances, discussing their coping strategies and invaluable contributions to national resilience.
Rosh Hashana Celebration - September 2025
An inspiring community gathering by IWF Israel celebrating connection, recognition, and renewed energy ahead of Rosh HaShana. Hosted at the home of Dr. Tzipi Iser Itsiq, the event brought together leading women for an evening that blended meaningful conversation, learning, and shared celebration.
Participants gained valuable perspective from Iris Zantkern, who spoke about the influence of state of mind on personal and professional growth. The gathering also included the presentation of the 2025 IWF Israel Award, recognizing the accomplishments and impact of outstanding women within the community.
Adding a creative and engaging element, Yael Lipman led an interactive game matching the names of inspiring women, encouraging dialogue, collaboration, and moments of light-hearted competition.
The event reflected the strength of a supportive women’s network—fostering inspiration, mutual empowerment, and collective momentum as members step into the New Year with purpose and optimism.
The 2025 IWF Israel Award
Honoring Women who break through barriers and inspire us all
A meaningful recognition initiative highlighting the achievements of women who break barriers and set new standards of leadership across Israel’s security and public spheres. The IWF Israel Award honors trailblazing women whose courage, professionalism, and resilience shape national strength and inspire future generations.
The Collective Award acknowledges the Women Pilots and Aircrew Members of the Israeli Air Force, recognizing their leadership, operational excellence, and their role in advancing gender equality within one of Israel’s most demanding security arenas. Their service reflects determination, skill, and the ability to lead under pressure while redefining long-standing boundaries.
The Individual Award recognizes Gali Baharav-Miara, Israel’s Attorney General, for her professional distinction, pioneering accomplishments, and influential leadership as the first woman to hold this role. Her work exemplifies integrity, responsibility, and the impact of principled leadership in public service.
Together, these honorees represent resilience, vision, and the power of women’s leadership to strengthen society, serve as role models, and contribute meaningfully to Israel’s national and civic landscape.
Hannukah Celebration - December 2025
A meaningful gathering highlighting the power of connection, reflection, and shared purpose within the IWF Israel network. Coming together to mark Hanukkah and conclude a significant year, members met in an atmosphere of warmth and collaboration, graciously hosted by Nava Kazaz. The evening blended tradition, dialogue, and forward-looking vision, as participants lit candles, exchanged insights, and reflected on the collective journey of the past year.
As the organization approaches a milestone of 30 years of activity, the gathering underscored a continued commitment to strengthening professional and personal connections, fostering mutual support, and advancing meaningful impact. Through shared experiences and open conversation, the community reaffirmed its role as a space where women leaders encourage one another, build resilience, and shape positive change for the year ahead.
30 years of activity: opening forum- January 2026
An insightful opening event marking the start of the 30th year of activity of IWF Israel, centered on exploring the social, cultural, and structural dynamics shaping Israeli society. The gathering created a thoughtful forum for examining questions of identity, community, and social frameworks through an academic and research-driven lens.
The evening featured the work of Meirav Ahron-Gutman, whose presentation offered an in-depth perspective grounded in empirical studies and extensive field experience. Participants engaged in a nuanced discussion that moved beyond simplified narratives, focusing instead on complexity, resilience, agency, and the ways communities shape their own trajectories over time.
Hosted at the home of Yael Lipman, with opening remarks by Dr. Tzipi Iser Itsiq and an introduction by Tamar Naor, the event reflected the spirit of intellectual exchange and collective reflection. It set a meaningful tone for the year ahead—emphasizing learning, dialogue, and the continued strengthening of a community committed to thoughtful leadership and social impact.
