A Woman’s Place Is at the Heart of Change
In South Africa, the 9th of August holds deep meaning. It reminds us of the power of women to rise, resist, and reshape society. It echoes the brave footsteps of 20,000 women who, in 1956, marched to the Union Buildings to say “enough” to injustice. These were women of every background who walked not just for themselves, but for generations to come.
At WIZO, we carry this same spirit in our hearts.
WIZO is the largest Women’s Zionist organisation in the world, and we are proud to be South Africa’s largest Women’s Zionist organisation. We are rooted in Jewish values, shaped by our South African experience, and committed to the flourishing of women and children in Israel, regardless of ethnicity, religion or nationality. We are dreamers and doers, fundraisers and freedom-fighters, nurturers and networkers.
Since 1957, WIZO South Africa has been raising funds, building bridges, and standing in solidarity with Israel through a uniquely South African lens. From the Mothercraft Training Centre in Tel Aviv to the safe homes of Neve WIZO and the laughter of little ones at the Inez Bernstein Day Care Centre, we have ensured that no vulnerable child is forgotten and no woman stands alone.
But we are more than projects. We are a movement.
We are women who understand that empowerment starts with empathy. That true freedom includes education, safety, dignity, and opportunity. And that change begins when one woman lifts another.
In a world that still so often silences or sidelines women, WIZO reminds us that our voices matter. That our hands can build futures. That our heritage is one of resilience, strength, and sacred responsibility.
As we celebrate Women’s Day this year, let’s honour the women who came before us by becoming the women who go beyond. Let’s give generously, speak boldly, and love fiercely. Let’s support the children in our care not just with shelter, but with hope. Let’s raise the next generation with vision, with values, and with an unshakable sense of purpose.
To every WIZO woman reading this, thank you. You are the heartbeat of our movement. You are the link between South Africa and Israel, between past and possibility, between compassion and courage.
On this Women’s Day, may we remember: a woman’s place is not just in the home or the workplace. Her place is wherever she chooses to stand, with strength, with vision, and with sisters by her side.
With love,
Shelley Trope-Friedman
President, WIZO South Africa