(Courtesy of Emunah) On Wednesday, May 15, Emunah of America held its annual Women of Wonder (WOW) event, honoring phenomenal women who continue to make profound impacts in our communities worldwide.
This year, Emunah paid tribute to Shimi Adar, entertainer and motivator; Orly Gottesman, founder of Blends by Orly and owner of Modern Bread and Bagel; Kim Heyman, brand ambassador and philanthropist; and Yael Schulman, owner of Goodnight Moon Layette.
WOW’s honorees epitomize an Emunah Woman of Wonder; each honoree is a recognized leader in her industry and maintains hands on involvement in our communities. This year’s event was chaired by outstanding lay leaders Chani Chesner, Odit Oliner, Sharona Schulder and Lauren Weinrib. This team worked tirelessly to ensure the success of WOW 2019, including, but not limited to, marketing, fundraising and honoree recognition. Sharona Schulder remarked afterwards, “The Women of Wonder event is an inspirational evening celebrating amazing female entrepreneurs. I am honored to be a part of such a meaningful night, which raises awareness and vital funds for Emunah’s programs and families.”
This year’s event took place at The Space at Flatiron. The program featured a video showcasing each honoree, sharing their experiences, accomplishments and hopes for the future. The video highlighted the incredible journeys of our entrepreneurial honorees and the critical work Emunah does every day.
The theme for the evening was transformation. Our honorees have made a transformative impact on the fashion, food and entertainment industries, simultaneously actively transforming the role of women in our communities.
Emunah’s national president, Johanna Guttman Herskowitz, highlighted the accomplishments of the Emunah Florence and Joseph Appleman College of Art & Technology. Yael Serlin, the keynote speaker, is the director of the fine arts department and a graduate of the teaching program. She spoke about her transformation, from secular kibbuznik to religious woman, to an accomplished artist and teacher.
Said Odit Oliner, “Women of Wonder is a chance to celebrate women making incredible impacts in their communities and transforming the role of women. Emunah demonstrates these ideals, providing unique opportunities for women with its high schools, college and mechina program, emphasizing opportunity for young women to grow and succeed.”
Emunah is witness to transformations every day. For over 70 years, Emunah has proven our residential programs, therapeutic treatments and education empower these children and young adults to heal and become contributing and productive adults, dramatically changing their lives and futures.
Emunah thanks everyone for their support. If you missed the event and would like to participate please go to www.emunahwow.org� to donate.�
