Community award winners announced

Zionism Victoria has announced the recipients of its 2025 Community Awards to be presented at its annual assembly on November 27.

The awards recognise those whose leadership, initiative and commitment have strengthened Jewish life and connection to Israel across Victoria.

The Sam Tatarka OAM Youth Leadership Award will be awarded to Zoe Fried who created ‘Raw & Unfiltered’ two years ago – a WhatsApp community providing a source of valuable information and unity for thousands of Jewish Australians during a challenging time. Fried also serves on the Young UIA Board, where she continues to promote meaningful engagement among her peers.

Fried told The AJN she was honoured to receive the award.

“I wanted to create a space where people could rely on truth, context, and thoughtful guidance, rather than noise and misinformation,” she said.

“What started as a small, personal effort grew into a community united by a shared commitment to understanding and connection … Knowing that it helped people feel informed, grounded, and supported is the greatest reward I could have hoped for.”

The Zionism Victoria Community Volunteer Award will be presented to the Project A Leadership Team — Moran Dvir, Lillian Kline, Liora Miller and Ginette Searle, four women who stepped forward in the wake of October 7 to represent and support the Jewish community with courage and conviction.

Project A have sought to build bridges of understanding and strengthen networks of support. Within the community, Project A seeks to empower individuals to speak confidently, share accurate information and engage constructively in difficult conversations.

President of Zionism Victoria Elyse Schachna remarked, “Zoe and the Project A team represent what genuine leadership looks like.

“They saw what was needed and responded with initiative, vision and resolve. They’ve helped people connect, find their voice and lead with confidence. That’s the kind of leadership that shapes communities for the better.”

CEO of Zionism Victoria Ilan Rimer added, “Zoe and the Project A team have shown that leadership starts with action. They’ve each turned conviction into impact — educating, connecting and strengthening the collective voice of our community.”

The awards will be presented at Zionism Victoria’s Annual Assembly on 27 November at 7:30pm followed by a keynote address by former editor of The Age Michael Gawenda, one of Australia’s most respected journalists and authors.