For their passion for Israel, talent as leaders and commitment to making a difference, three young women have been named Hadassah’s 2024 Leaders of Tomorrow.
Shira Babajanov, 17, of Greater Houston; Nomi Gedzelman, 17, of New York City, and Talia Pierson, 15, of Westchester County, NY, are the recipients of this year’s award.
“We congratulate these exceptional young women,” said Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz. “They have shown the skill and vision needed to inspire others, and they are using their voices to support Zionism at a time when many are afraid to show their love for Israel.”
The award is given annually to students entering 11th or 12th grade. Each winner receives $1,000 toward the tuition for Gesher Israel, a Young Judaea summer leadership program. Participants in Gesher Israel spend three and a half weeks in Israel honing their leadership skills, learning about the country’s culture and history and forging lifelong friendships.
“I look forward to watching these young women grow into adults who will take their place as community leaders,” said Greta Rothschild, chair of Hadassah National Young Judaea. Added vice chair Elaine Silver, “Shira, Talia and Nomi exemplify a key part of Hadassah’s mission –– to empower and inspire women of all ages to achieve their potential.”