United Hatzalah of Israel congratulates three of its outstanding volunteer medical professionals who received the Chochmat Nashim Women of Iron Award at a special ceremony held yesterday evening, December 23, at the headquarters of Nefesh B’Nefesh in Jerusalem. The event honored eighteen women who have exemplified extraordinary dedication to Israeli society and global Jewish community life.
Among the award recipients were United Hatzalah volunteer paramedic Gitty Beer, United Hatzalah psychotrauma expert Dr. Tamar Shlezinger, and United Hatzalah paramedic Sivan Mashiach, each recognized for exceptional professionalism, courage, and impact in the field.
Dr. Tamar Shlezinger, a clinical social worker and member of United Hatzalah’s Psychotrauma and Crisis Response Unit, was honored for her critical role in providing emotional stabilization, trauma care, and long-term resilience support to individuals and communities in crisis. On October 7 Schlezinger assisted 9-year-old Michael, and his 6-year-old sister Amalia for 12 hours on the telephone while the two waited to be rescued by IDF soldiers. Both Michael and Amalia’s parents were murdered by Hamas terrorists and their sister, Avigail, was kidnapped and taken to Gaza on that horrific day.
Sivan Mashiach, a volunteer paramedic, was recognized for her unwavering commitment to lifesaving response under extreme conditions. On October 7, she was among the first paramedics to arrive in the area of Kfar Aza in southern Israel, where she treated numerous civilians and soldiers amid ongoing attacks.
Gitty Beer, a volunteer paramedic with United Hatzalah and founder of the organization’s Women’s Unit, has responded to countless emergency incidents over the years, including the terror attack at Jerusalem’s Ramot Junction. On October 7, upon seeing reports of the unfolding massacre in southern Israel, Beer immediately ran toward danger with two of her sons-in-law, joining lifesaving efforts to assist those under attack.
“In the tradition of Miriam, Yael, and Devorah, these award-winning volunteers lead through action,” President and Founder Eli Beer remarked. “Their courage is not only a source of pride for us, but their service offers young women and girls living proof of what leadership looks like.”
The evening was emceed by Shoshanna Keats Jaskoll and Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, who reflected on the indispensable role women play in Israel’s emergency response system, civil society, and public leadership.
United Hatzalah extends its warm congratulations to the honorees and its gratitude to the partners and community members who came together to celebrate women whose quiet strength and professional excellence save lives every day.
