By Florencia Cespedes 

An evening of warm fellowship, heartfelt gratitude and inspiring stories unfolded as women of extraordinary faith gathered to celebrate a shared calling: to lead with courage, serve with love and glorify God’s Kingdom. 

On October 6, 2026, the She Leads Israel banquet, held in partnership with the ICEJ, Eagle’s Wings and Dr. Susan Michael from ICEJ-USA (via video greeting), welcomed distinguished guests to Hotel Yehuda in Jerusalem.  

ICEJ President Dr. Jürgen Bühler and his wife, Vesna, took to the podium, with Vesna sharing what a privilege it is for the ICEJ to join hands with She Leads in this historic event in honoring some of the heroines of Israel, in the Kingdom of God. “We are here to strengthen all of our sisters’ voices for the glory of Jesus. My prayer for this evening is that this ceremony will serve as an inspiration for other women to find their place, and particularly the next generation,” she exclaimed. Dr. Bühler then offered a word of prayer, dedicating the evening to the Lord. 

Founded by Rev. Dr. Liz Doyle, She Leads draws inspiration from Proverbs 31:30–31, honoring women whose faith and leadership leave a lasting impact in their communities and for the first time in Israel. 

Among the distinguished guests were Member of Knesset Tatiana Mazarasky, several Ambassadors to Israel and Her Royal Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of Nigeria’s Warri Kingdom, who shared an uplifting message about identity and divine purpose. “Before He asks anything of us, He says we are holy, we are chosen, we are deeply loved,” she reminded those gathered, encouraging women to lead with compassion, humility and love. 

Her words beautifully reflected the lives of 12 remarkable Messianic, Arab and Gentile women in Israel being honored, including two ICEJ leaders: Nicole Yoder, Vice President for AID & Aliyah and Fine Ditoka, Head of Diplomacy and Protocol. 

Nicole, who has dedicated more than 26 years to strengthening Jewish-Christian relations and providing practical support to Israelis in need, shared a moving reflection: “If you have the chance to live your life as part of a miracle, how do you walk away from that?”  While Fine reflected on her journey from Fiji to Jerusalem, she declared, “I don’t simply want to hold a position, I want to fulfil God’s purposes. I see myself as an ambassador for Christ.”  

As each honoree received a medal, certificate and a tiara, the evening served as a reminder that true leadership is measured not by titles but by lives touched. 

More than a banquet, it was a testimony of God’s faithfulness through women who have answered His calling, whose devotion continues to bless Israel, build bridges between nations and inspire generations to walk boldly in His purpose.