Anita Bejerano
Anita was born into a unique family with powerful women, whose family unit contributed to the establishment and continuation of the nation of Israel. Her maternal grandmother, Haviva, came from a resilient and religious family from Iraq, who believed in the education and equality of women in society and helping others. Her paternal grandmother, Anita, was a nurse who came from a wealthy aristocratic family from Bulgaria.
Growing up, Anita played sports (in particular swimming), played trumpet in an orchestra and established the Scouts youth movement in her city. When she finished high school Anita went from there to the army for her two-year compulsory service, serving as a paratrooper. After the army Anita attended the Be'er Sheva University and for many years worked in the hospitality industry.
In 1999 during a visit by Helena Glaser, President of World WIZO, Anita was introduced to WIZO. She wanted to improve the status of women and educate children. She found out that one of her grandmothers collected fabrics and clothes for women in need, and her other grandmother knitted sweaters and wool socks for soldiers - both volunteering for WIZO. It was in her blood. Also, her mother-in-law Barbara belonged to WIZO and served as a treasurer for years!
Her mum volunteered for years for the Breast Cancer Organisation as well as the elderly in Israel.
While part of WIZO Victoria, both as an Executive Member and as a past President, Anita is proud of many things, particularly establishing 5 new groups which are the next generation women of our organisation. Another very memorable event was bringing the 'Son of Hamas' to the St Kilda Town Hall to speak to the Melbourne Community.
Anita introduced many new campaigns of which she is very proud and until today are part of WIZO Victoria and their outreach to the community, particularly supporting the elderly in the community. During her time as President, her overriding motto was "what is good for WIZO is good enough for me. Having left Israel and living primarily in Melbourne, Anita strongly believes that Jewish women living in the diaspora have so much to offer Israeli women. This comes in many forms, such as a mental and spiritual connection, and financial support. Australians are a lucky people.
Today Anita is a consultant for genealogical books, and is also writing a children's book. She plans to split her time living between Melbourne and Israel, and while in Israel she hopes to teach children about Australia and the wonderful community we have here.