The Union of Jewish Women South Africa hosted their 31st Triennial conference in Johannesburg from 15-17 October.
UJW leadership, delegates and guests were invited to hear different opinions on ‘Our Changing World – Tomorrow’s Challenges’.
The opening night was a splendid affair. Guests included the outspoken ANC MP Dr Makhosi Khoza, the Israeli Ambassador Lior Keinan, MCC for Health and Social Development JHB, Dr Mpho Phalatse, National Chairman SA Jewish Board of Deputies Shaun Zagnoev, the Director of JHGC Tali Nates and community leaders and key note speaker Gerrie Nel was outstanding.
On Monday, delegates and visitors gathered at the HOD Centre to hear inspirational speakers such as Luke Lambrecht, Nikki Munitz Nicola Barak, Thembekile Molaudzi and Carolyn Raphaely. They captivated and uplifted the audience with their stories of courage and success. Jewish leaders spoke on antisemitism and how to be vigilant in our changing world and the importance of protecting our children. In the evening delegates, family and friends were treated to a delicious dinner and entertained by the inimitable Harry Sideropolis.
Mina Sable, National Honorary Life president congratulated outgoing President Lynne Raphaely for her excellent tenure at the helm. She inducted Myra Goldenbaum, who made UJW history by becoming the first ‘out of Johannesburg’ president and first working president as she is CEO of a company in Cape Town.
Myra Goldenbaum started her journey in the UJW as a young mother in Kimberley and became chairman of that branch before moving to Cape Town where she was Chairman and a Honorary Life Member. She was elected onto the National Executive Committee, became National Vice President and was then elected as a National Honorary Life Vice President.
Myra proudly inducted her vice presidents, Linda Nathan from Durban, Bev Goldman from Johannesburg, and Michelle Rosenthal from East London.
On Tuesday delegates heard of the great work the UJW branches were doing in their communities as ‘Women of Action’ and planned ahead to face the challenges of ‘Our Changing World – Tomorrows Challenges’.
