Hilary Cohen

Hilary has always been a passionate community member and has been involved in many Jewish organisations over the years. Growing up in South Africa she belonged to B’nei Akiva and attended a number of their seminars and camps. She was also a member of WIZO in Johannesburg.

In 1996, Hilary emigrated to Australia with her husband Adrian and 5 month old daughter Tayla. They had a son Adam in 1997.

Hilary continued her involvement with WIZO in Australia and was one of the founding members of WIZO Tova in 2003. Tova’s membership is made up of South African immigrants and have a strong WIZO support base. Hilary was the first and only treasurer of the group. The group has had wonderful success raising much needed funds for Israel with a variety of interesting and different functions.

In 2005, Hilary together with six members of WIZO Tova were sponsored and travelled to the Aviv conference in Israel. This trip was extremely eye opening and made her realise the importance of WIZO and Australia’s role in assisting Israel.

Hilary became the Assistant Treasurer of WIZO Victoria and has served on the Victorian Executive for the last 15 years as well as being an Office Bearer.

In 2016 she was appointed the Treasurer of WIZO Australia under President Paulette Cherny. Hilary is currently sitting on the Board of Directors of WIZO Australia Pty Ltd and on the Executive of WIZO Australia Incorporated.

In addition, Hilary volunteers for Jewish Care on their Generations of Women’s brunch and their Annual Dinner committee.

She is on the Blake Street Synagogue committee and has volunteered for many years, co-assisting and running the Kiddushes for Barmitzvahs, Batmitzvahs and special events.

Hilary is grateful for all that she has learned and all the inspiring people she has met whilst being a member of WIZO.