Leadership Rooted in Service
True leadership is not defined by position, but by service, service to a mission, to a community, and to the generations who will carry that mission forward.
For more than a century, WIZO has been built by extraordinary women who understood that meaningful change begins with compassion, courage, and collective responsibility. Our movement is sustained by volunteers whose generosity of spirit and dedication uplift women, strengthen families, and protect the most vulnerable.
Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein described WIZO South Africa as “an amazing sisterhood, a group of talented, bright, and caring women who dedicate themselves to the holy work of building a better world through extraordinary generosity of spirit, selfless volunteerism, and committed ideals.” These words capture the very essence of WIZO.
At its heart, WIZO exists to empower women and safeguard children. As WIZO South Africa President, Shelley Trope-Friedman, reflects:
“At WIZO, we seek to provide women with all they need to live fruitful and safe lives. In Israel, we provide direction and education to the young, support women facing abuse, and work to strengthen families and communities. We are concerned with the well-being of all in society.”
Shelley’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in the example set by her late parents, Bob and Adele Trope, whose dedication to philanthropy instilled in her the values of generosity, responsibility, and community leadership.
“My parents helped me discover the essence of giving and working to build a better future for all,” she reflects. “This is the truth of what we do.”
Over many years, Shelley has been actively involved in organisations such as the South African Zionist Federation, ORT, and Glendale Home, experiences that have shaped her belief that strong communities are built through shared purpose and service.
Today, WIZO South Africa continues to serve as an agent of change, empowering women to overcome adversity and fulfil their hopes and dreams.
While our work in Israel remains central to our mission, WIZO South Africa also extends its spirit of compassion to communities at home. Through initiatives such as the nationwide Wheelchairs of Hope project, Israeli-designed wheelchairs are transforming the lives of South African children by giving them the gift of mobility. At the same time, WIZO Cape Town’s outreach initiatives continue to make a meaningful impact in communities such as Khayelitsha and surrounding townships, supporting soup kitchens and crèches through donations of food, books, toys, and essential supplies, while establishing gardening projects that promote food security and sustainability.
Yet the strength of WIZO has never rested on one individual alone. It lies in the collective dedication of women who give their time, energy, and compassion to serve others.
As Shelley often reminds us: “Together, we will shine brightly and be a beacon of hope. At WIZO South Africa, we hold our own because of the generous people in our community who help us reach the women and children who need us most.”
As we look ahead, we honour the legacy of the leaders who came before us while embracing our responsibility to continue their work. Through unity, service, and unwavering commitment, WIZO will continue to empower, uplift, and build a better future for generations to come.
WIZO South Africa