Jewish Care

The Woman of Distinction 2009 luncheon raises a record sum for people with mental health needs at Jewish Care projects in north-west London.

Diane von Furstenberg, centre

International fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg received Jewish Care’s Sylvia Rind, Woman of Distinction award at a luncheon held at the Langham Hotel on Thursday 19th November. The event raised a record £100,000.

Addressing an audience of nearly 300 women, Diane von Furstenberg paid tribute to her mother, a Holocaust survivor, who was: “a very strong woman. She taught me that fear was not an option; she would never allow me to be afraid.”

The award was presented by Dame Gail Ronson, Jewish Care’s deputy chairman, who praised the ‘inspirational’ winner, describing her as an ‘international icon.’ Sarah Brown, the Prime Minister’s wife, sent a letter of support.

Now based in New York, the Belgian-born winner has pioneered fashion and business trends and her iconic wrap dresses are worn by millions of women worldwide.

“I grew up as a ‘normal’ girl in Belgium,” she said, “not knowing what I wanted to do... But I did know what kind of woman I wanted to become, an independent woman, who moved very fast, in charge of my life and never have to rely on anyone... To be a woman is an advantage and a privilege. The more women I meet, the more I am impressed.”

She moved to America and founded two companies, which she later sold. Then ten years ago she re-launched when she saw young girls were buying her dresses in vintage shops and made: “a success even better than before.”

She was also honoured for her work as a women’s rights campaigner.
“My mission is to empower women and I do this through my clothes which make women feel sexy and strong,”

Her other mission being philanthropy, Diane noted: “the immense joy and satisfaction you get from giving – there is no greater privilege. I salute Jewish Care and all the work you do.”

Guests had been welcomed by Nicola Loftus, chairman of Jewish Care’s Woman of Distinction committee, who was “proud and privileged” that Diane had accepted the award.

She described the response to the lunch as: “phenomenal. It is doubly impressive considering the financial climate and it is a real thrill to see so many prominent, successful and dynamic women together in one room. We are represented by a diverse cross section of ladies including women in the arts, culture, fashion, academics, doctors, lawyers and business women, as well as those who dedicate their time and energy to the community.

“I am particularly moved by Jewish Care and think it is truly amazing that our community has the largest care charity in Europe, which provides nearly £50m worth of health and social care support, often where there are no viable alternatives.”

Fundraising director Richard Franklin congratulated the Woman of Distinction committee – Nicola Loftus (chair); Elaine Davis, Emma Krais, Dawn Laren, Hannah Lewis, Lynn Lindsay, Jackie Loebenberg, Philippa Mintz; Jenifer Rosenberg OBE, Arabella Spiro and Susan Spitz.

He said: “Social care is in crisis in the UK and statutory support is shrinking. Jewish Care is blessed to have such a strong committee – you are all extraordinary women.”

This was the 24th year for the prestigious event which honours a Jewish woman in her chosen field and its first international award. Previous winners include Dame Jenny Abramsky, Helen Bamber OBE, Baroness Susan Greenfield, Dame Vivien Duffield, Oona King, Maureen Lipman CBE, and Dame Ruth Deech

The event closed with a vote of thanks by Emma Krais.