MEET TZILA HACKER

Tzila is a Haredi single mom living in a small rented apartment in Tzfat with her son.

After graduating Beis Yaakov with a Judaic Studies qualification, she decided to become a nurse. With the support of the KEMACH Foundation, Tzila studied at Laniado Hospital’s Tessler School of Nursing in Netanya where she worked for four years as a surgical nurse.

At the same time, she also studied for a Bachelors of Science degree through the Open University, with the dream of becoming a doctor. When she was accepted to the Bar Ilan University School of Medicine, KEMACH assisted Tzila with a new scholarship from The Max Barney Foundation. This allowed Tzila to focus on her studies and to bring up her young son without financial stress.

The pressure is intense, with weekly tests, but she appreciates KEMACH’s support and encouragement. Now in her second year, having completed her first year with a 74% average grade, Tzila dreams of becoming a surgeon or a gynecologist.

“Being a nurse was not enough for me. I have always wanted to give more, to the community at large and to the religious community in particular. I believe that the Haredi community needs female Haredi doctors who can understand their unique needs, and I am grateful to KEMACH for helping me to realize my ambition.”