UIA NSW Women’s Gala event
The United Israel Appeal (UIA) hosted their annual Women’s Division Gala Event in order to commemorate Israel’s 70th birthday as part of their 2018 campaign.
Hundreds of guests attended the event, which consisted of both women and their partners or guests, at the Four Seasons Hotel.
Bev Michaelis opened the gala dinner, meaningfully emphasising the growth of Israel and Israel’s achievements. After the opening address, a lovely dinner and drinks was served to all guests giving them the chance to socialise and enjoy the atmosphere of the hotel.
Alon Ben-David, Israeli television and print journalist who specialises in defence and military issues was one of two keynote speakers at the event. Following the dinner, Ben-David took the stage. Ben-David covered a range of topics in his speech and touched on a possibility of an Iran threat looming over the horizon, the U.S finally and rightfully recognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the ongoing tragic conflict in Syria, the cooperation over mutual interests between Israel and Syria and the situation in Gaza.
Nevertheless, throughout his speech Ben-David emphasised the strength of Israel as a nation. Ben-David proclaimed strongly and confidently: “No one is capable of launching a campaign which will end in Israel’s destruction.”
Ben-David’s ability to command a room, his clear stance on issues and emotive speech made for an engaging and thought-provoking presentation.
A highlight of the evening was Sheli Ben Nun, who beautifully used sand art, to the background sound of Israeli-themed music, to depict Israeli history. Ben Nun took the audience on a transforming story through her wonderful and delicate form of art, captivating everyone in the room.
The second keynote speaker of the evening was Ambassador Belaynesh Zevadia, who is the first Olah from Ethiopia to serve as an Israeli diplomat. Zevadia shared her incredible story and journey with the audience, from her life in a small village in Ethiopia to making Aliyah alone and pursuing a higher education before being reunited with her family. Zevadia’s story was both inspiring and emotional to listen to. Zevadia thanked UIA for the role they played in giving her the opportunity to be where she is today, due to the work that they do to help Israel.
The evening was closed by the UIA NSW Shaliach, Adi Gefen Adler, who spoke about Israel and the diaspora Jewry being one and thanked everyone for coming.
Dessert was served following presentations while Nicky Kurta provided the evening’s entertainment by performing Israeli songs.
Following her performance, Kurta thanked the guests for coming on behalf of UIA and asked everyone to stand for Hatikvah. Kurta sang beautifully a very emotional Hatikvah, a perfect closing to a wonderfully executed event.
