About
The Jewish Professional Women’s Network (JPWN) is a supportive community for Jewish women who are, or aspire to be, career-focused. We provide a space to:
Share ideas and information
Build professional networks
Develop skills and career growth opportunities
Discuss relevant and topical issues
Connect, socialise, and have fun!
JPWN is dedicated to empowering and encouraging Jewish women to pursue their careers and professional ambitions.
History
In 2015, Gabi Crafti gathered a small group of Jewish women to have lunch and discuss their experiences of being women in the workforce. Another lunch was organised and then another, and then drinks one evening. More and more women started attending these gatherings.
By 2016, Gabi and Amie Rochman set up a Facebook group to provide a platform for information sharing and exchanging of ideas. They started running networking events and skills workshops, bringing together and celebrating a wide range of female Jewish professionals. In 2018, JPWN inaugurated its first board of directors and become an incorporated association, with Gabi at the helm.
At the end of 2020, Amie became president, guiding the organisation through the Covid years and beyond.
The network’s current social media footprint sits around 2,500 followers with a highly engaged Facebook group where members connect and share board and job opportunities, professional development and support.
The Network has grown to sold out events ranging from speed networking, through to panel events exploring a diverse range of themes.
Since late 2022, Lee-At Jacobson has held the role of JPWN president, building on the brand identity of Jewish women.
Present
Jewish women often struggle with traversing the divide between their identity at work and who they are at home. The JPWN provides a unique space to bridge that gap through events and networking opportunities.
Attending our events highlights the many accomplished, brilliant and diverse women in our community and I always leave humbled, grateful and inspired by fellow Jewish women.
Lee-At Jacobson, President of JPWN, 2023
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In the Media
“It’s become clear that many Jewish women want to identify with and explore something other than the mother, carer, volunteer type roles. Career is an important part of most Jewish women’s lives. JPWN provides a forum for those women to connect at that level.”
Australian Jewish News | 20 July 2023
Australian Jewish News | 23 August 2019
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In The Spotlight
