About Us
Background
Ethiopian-Israeli women face what is known as an "ethnic penalty," meaning they are concentrated in low-status job sectors typical of ethnic minorities. They deal with wage gaps, underrepresentation, and discrimination, often working in non-professional roles that do not reflect their qualifications or experience. While many do join the workforce, it is usually in low-paid fields and limited industries.
Women without academic education are mostly found at the bottom of the employment ladder, especially in sales and service roles, with low wages and no path for advancement. Many struggle to access jobs that lead to social mobility. At times, they face harmful conditions that include prejudice, racism, discrimination, and difficulty claiming their rights. (Adva Center, 2021)
Our Vision
Integrating women from the Ethiopian community into key positions in Israeli society and improving their status in order to strengthen the community, promote economic resilience, and support social cohesion and equality. This includes empowerment, identity building, and reinforcing the cultural roots of Ethiopian-Israeli women.
Our Team
Racheli Tadessa Malkai
Founder and director of the organization.
A 40-year-old Ashkelon resident, married and a mother of three. She holds a Social Work degree from Ashkelon College. In 2017, she founded the Facebook community "Empowering Ethiopian Women" to create impact through years of hands-on experience. The group now includes around 18,000 Israeli-Ethiopian women. In 2020, she officially launched the nonprofit and has since focused on advancing Ethiopian-Israeli women in high-tech, education, and economic opportunities.
Simha Kishev-Zeneva
Community Manager
She joined the Empowering Ethiopian Women community in 2017 and has since been diligently maintaining the Facebook group on a volunteer basis.
Orly tasma
Programs and Partnerships Manager
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Adina Adena
Courses Coordinator and Community Manager
Joined the Empowering Ethiopian Women community in 2017 and has since maintained the Facebook group with dedication and on a voluntary basis. Since March 2023, Adina has been employed by the organization as Community Manager and Courses Coordinator.
Executive Board
Masarat Sahalo
Chairperson of the organization
Resident of Ashkelon, married and a mother of four. A certified bookkeeper, she has served as the chairperson of the organization since its founding.
Danny Limor
Retiree of "the Mossad"
"The women of the community stand out across all sectors of Israeli society — from medicine to law, from impactful social activism to serving as officers in the army and police. In other words, they are the driving force of the community. Out of my belief in you, I want to do my part in helping empower the incredible potential within you."
Ruthy Amara
Ruthy Amara-Zeneve
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Michal Tamayet
Kess advisor
Saly Benesin
Senior Manager at the Israel Digital Headquarters
"I have always found myself working to reduce gaps and drive social change. My role as a board member in the organization allows me to create innovative solutions and responses through direct collaboration with the women and their resources."
Accountant Yossi Haimov
Internal Auditor
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