Another successful campaign for UIA Victoria & changing of the guard

VIC
21 November 2022

UIA Victoria held its AGM and 2023 Campaign Launch at Central Shule on Thursday 17 November. 
Guest speakers were Sam Grundwerg, World Chairman of Keren Hayesod-UIA and Steven Lowy AM, Chairman of the World Board of Trustees of Keren Hayesod-UIA.

The impact that UIA Australia had on advancing the national priorities of Israel in 2022 was presented focussing on the tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees and immigrants from Russia.  A special treat included an interview with Vitali, a Ukrainian Oleh who now calls Rishon LeTzion home.

The change of Victoria Presidency from Hayley Southwick to Peter Horovitz, who has been a member of the executive for a number of years – was announced.

Southwick said: “A good leader knows when it is time to pass on the baton. Whilst I feel sadness, I am also filled with immense pride. My 5 years as President of UIA Victoria and the 10 years before as the Women’s Division Chair, totalling 15 years straight in a leadership position has by far been one of my greatest experiences – simultaneously fulfilling, rewarding and challenging.”

She continued, “I feel honoured to have led the organisation over the past 5 years and through an incredibly challenging time, whilst being supported by a dedicated board. We implemented state-of-the-art systems, streamlined our operations and made them far more efficient. We also restructured the organisation which has created a focussed and cohesive team, meaning far more donor money is sent to support the national priorities of Israel.” 

To mark this milestone, Sam Grundwerg and Steven Lowy presented Hayley with the prestigious ‘Key to Jerusalem’ award, in recognition of her exemplary commitment, devotion and unconditional support to the State of Israel and Jewish People over many years and for fulfilling the position of UIA Victoria President from 2017 until 2022.

Incoming President Peter Horovitz stated, “I am a proud Australian, a proud Jew and a staunch Zionist, so I am immensely honoured to have been asked to take on this role – a role I take very seriously.”
UIA also launched a rebrand which ensures a consistent image and message nationally.

Preliminary announcements were made about the 2023 Campaign events and celebrations for Israel’s 75th anniversary, including the IDF ensemble and a remarkable woman we helped save from Ukraine earlier this year. The Victorian campaign will kick off on in the evening of Tuesday 28 February with our community gala event at Caulfield Racecourse. 

Follow UIA on Facebook and Instagram (@uiaaus) to stay up to date on our 2023 Campaign events.