On Monday, March 6th, we marked this year's International Women's Day at our annual WIZO Conference, where we highlighted the theme of "equality". I am proud that our WIZO events reflect the central role WIZO has and continues to play in the advancement of women's rights and in championing the equality of rights between men and women.
I met strong and inspiring women with a clear sense of inner calling and commitment to supporting the people of Modiin. I was deeply proud of them for working in harmony and great dedication, for their many and varied initiatives, turning WIZO's vision in education and the advancement of women's status into reality each and every day.
On March 8th, we celebrate International Women's Day, an important day for women throughout the world. We must take great pride in our own share of this marvelous achievement – for raising generations of inspired women who make Israel a better place.
This year, we are delighted to celebrate a decade since WIZO adopted the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and introduced it in Israel under the name the "Israel Youth Award". It is a celebration of ten years of activities that help our students discover themselves and their society.
On the national Family Day in Israel we celebrate the family and the important role it plays in the social and national resilience of our society. Our precious family unit is the soul of the development and prosperity of all of our WIZO projects, and you, as women and mothers are the ones who create them, raise them and nurture them throughout the years.
Tu B'Shevat, the "New Year for Trees", a time when the renewal of nature unfolds before our eyes in different colors and shades across our beautiful State of Israel.
It is with great pleasure that I welcome each and every one of you, my WIZO sisters from around the world, to our Israel – the cherished home of the Jewish people.
Lighting Chanukah candles with our children at WIZO DCC
For me, every visit to WIZO Parents' Home is special, because WIZO is a family and each person, from an infant to a pensioner, in our WIZO institutions is part of this big and proud family.