Four WIZO Graduates Received President’s Excellence Award

Every year, 120 outstanding IDF soldiers and officers receive the highest honor of excellence from the President of Israel.

This year, we are incredibly proud to share that four WIZO graduates were among those recognized on Israel’s Independence Day.

We are proud to celebrate four outstanding graduates of WIZO youth villages who have received the prestigious President’s Award for Excellence on Israel’s Independence Day 2025!

The President’s Award for Excellence is one of Israel’s highest honours, awarded each year to exceptional individuals—soldiers, students, and citizens—who demonstrate outstanding dedication, values, and leadership.

This incredible achievement reflects the core values of WIZO youth villages: teamwork, social responsibility, and unwavering determination.

Each of them is a source of inspiration for young people striving to grow, lead, and succeed—even when the road is not easy.

Private Shelly — Graduate of WIZO Nir Ha’Emek Youth Village

Shelly lives in Kiryat Yam and studied at the WIZO Nir Ha’Emek boarding school from 8th to 12th grade, in the police studies track. She also completed the squad commander course, led by Chief Inspector Yaki Kobi, the program’s mentor.

Shelly shares:
“What helped me most along the way were the studies and life in the boarding school. WIZO Nir Ha’Emek gave me excellent habits for a disciplined environment — like morning and evening drills, getting used to being around people 24/7, and seeing less of home. I felt supported by the entire staff at the village.”

Sergeant Alexander — Graduate of WIZO Nahalal Youth Village

Alexander lives in Netanya and immigrated to Israel from Ukraine in 2019 through the Naale program at age 15. He studied at the WIZO Nahalal boarding school and graduated with honors.

Alexander says:
“I believe I received the President’s Award thanks to the people close to me — my family, my ‘Yahalom’ group from the boarding school, and my mortar platoon in the army. These people supported me, helped me, taught me, and pushed me forward no matter what.”

Staff Sergeant Dorian — Graduate of WIZO Hadassim Youth Village

Dorian made aliyah from France through the Naale program and quickly became a role model of dedication, perseverance, and values. During her time at WIZO Hadassim, she stood out as an excellent student and a committed participant in social and community life.

The staff at WIZO Hadassim say:
“Dorian is a values-driven young woman, full of purpose and leadership. She has the ability to inspire and lead others. She is a true role model for many youth.”

Staff Sergeant Rotem — Graduate of WIZO Hadassim Youth Village

Rotem lives in Even Yehuda and is a graduate of Hadassim High School. During her service as a combat medic, she distinguished herself through her dedication, sense of responsibility, leadership, and the initiatives she led within her unit.

About her, the village staff say:
“By choosing to serve as a combat soldier and lead through action and values, Rotem is an inspiration to young women and men alike. Her selection as a recipient of the President’s Award is a great source of pride for Even Yehuda and for WIZO Hadassim.”

We are immensely proud to raise not only top achievers but compassionate, dedicated individuals who are helping shape the future of Israel.

Thank you for your commitment, your courage, and your inspiring journey!