This Women’s Month, Habonim Dror Southern Africa is proud to celebrate the incredible women who make our movement stronger every day. Through four inspiring individuals, we showcase the journey of women across every stage of Habonim. Together, they reflect the leadership, dedication and spirit that define Habonim Dror Southern Africa.
Former chaver and now a parent: Abigail Smith
Habonim was part of my story long before I was born, and some of my earliest memories growing up in Habonim were that we were encouraged to think deeply, question respectfully, and care for one another and the world around us. It gave me an unshakable pride in my Jewish identity and the confidence to ask difficult questions, challenge ideas, and find my own voice. The movement’s deeply egalitarian culture taught me from an early age that leadership, responsibility, and opportunity were never defined by gender, shaping my belief that I could do anything my male peers could do. Those lessons became the foundation of how I lead, work, parent, and build community today. Above all, Habonim taught me to meet every person with dignity, compassion, and humanity – a gift that has shaped every part of my life.
Long-standing Habonim supporter: Gabi Altamirano
Habonim Dror didn’t just prepare me for the real world – it made me believe I belonged in it. Long before I had a career, I was trusted to lead, make difficult decisions, organise large-scale projects, and use my voice with confidence and respect. It taught me resilience, critical thinking, and that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but having the courage to step forward. Every young woman deserves a space that believes in her before she has to prove herself. Habonim was that space for me.
Current madricha and leader: Leah Benjamin
Just weeks ago, I served as one of the roshim of Habonim Dror’s winter camp, an experience that taught me resilience and confidence, and showed me the power I have, as a woman in leadership, to shape future generations. Habonim is a uniquely pluralistic space, and over the years it has taught me that compassion and love are just as important as strength and intelligence. This is the kind of leader I hope to be, and a small part of the legacy I hope to leave for the girls who will one day stand where I stand.
Current chanicha: Mila Nathan
Within a fiercely supportive community, I not only discovered my voice but also myself. This year at Winter Camp, I was the only girl in my age group. Rather than being discouraged, it made me step up as a leader, unlocking one of my greatest qualities. Now, I step into the real world ready to occupy spaces where women are missing and pull others up with me.
