Words from our President

As the daughter of Holocaust survivors, I was raised to support Israel. I watched my father write cheques to various Jewish organizations in Calgary, Canada, and Israel. He taught me about tikkun olam by also supporting many secular organizations. When I asked why he gave to certain charities, he explained that they were in need and required our help. Education, especially a Jewish education, was incredibly important to my parents, so they sent my brother and me to the Calgary Hebrew School, even when money was tight in the early years. However, I never truly felt the strain, as I was surrounded by love and strong role models every day.

I am proud to serve as the 20th president of Na’amat Canada, following in the footsteps of the incredible women who have come before me. I am fortunate to be joined by a remarkable group of women with exceptional skills and talents who serve on our board, executive, and staff.

Our Education and Social Advocacy Committee, led by Na’amat Canada’s National Vice President Brenda Fayerman from Montreal, ensures our members, donors, and the public stay informed about the vital work Na’amat does both in Israel and in Canada. Through social media, our website, Zoom programs, and regular updates from Na’amat Israel, we work to acknowledge, celebrate, and publicize our important initiatives. Social advocacy is a core focus of Na’amat, and we are dedicated to responding to critical issues that align with our mission.

The Membership Engagement and Leadership Development Committee, led by Lisa Charow from Toronto, continues to support our current members while working to attract new ones. Our members are the heart and soul of our organization, and we deeply appreciate their ongoing hard work and dedication.

Our Fundraising Committee, led by Lori Dessau from Hamilton, explores new ways to raise funds to support our crucial work. We have been creative in raising funds through virtual events and partnerships with our counterparts in Na’amat USA and Na’amat International. Last term, we also added legacy giving to our fundraising portfolio under the guidance of Will Power.

The Financial Committee, led by Roni Maderer from Toronto, ensures that our finances are managed responsibly, so as much of the funds we raise as possible go toward supporting Na’amat’s work in Israel, where it is urgently needed—especially now, as all Israelis face the trauma of the recent violence and war inflicted upon them by Hamas. The effects of this will create long-lasting needs.

I am grateful to Immediate Past President Sandi Seigel from Hamilton, who has made this transition so seamless. She is always there to offer support and advice, and her love for Na’amat is clear.

I also want to recognize the rest of the slate, who provide invaluable advice and serve on our committees: Nicole Dason (Toronto), Dalia Margalit-Faircloth (Vancouver), Marian Lederman (Ottawa), and Deena Sacks (Hamilton).

I extend my deepest thanks to our Executive Vice President, Vivian Reisler, and our Administrative Assistant, Pam Segal, for their tireless efforts in keeping the organization running smoothly in countless ways.

At our last convention, we agreed to continue supporting Kanot Youth Village by raising additional funds for their new wing, which will support students in Grades 7 and 8. Kanot helps at-risk youth change the trajectory of their lives by offering both emotional and academic guidance. They are innovative in reaching out to these students, who have shown remarkable achievement. In fact, the successful matriculation rate at Kanot far exceeds the national average, and Kanot has been recognized as one of Israel's top schools multiple times. We are extremely proud of these accomplishments. With our ongoing efforts, we will be able to provide state-of-the-art facilities to serve at-risk youth.

I am deeply privileged to work alongside all our members, donors, and supporters. Your dedication is truly inspiring.

Susan Inhaber
Na’amat Canada, President