Founded in 1931 with the aim and objective of giving service to both Jewish and other communities, the UJWSA provided welfare projects during the depression years and later during the racially restrictive period of the National Party rule.

The organisation offered skills training in Centres of Concern, funded educational programmes, established crèches and nursery schools in Black and Coloured areas and empowered disadvantaged sections of society to find employment and to become self-sufficient. Many projects are self-sustaining and are still operational today.

By the late 1940's and early 1950's the UJWSA had established branches in major cities and also in many smaller towns.

The UJWSA maintains contact and networks with both diverse and like-minded organisations and provides a platform for interaction and understanding.

The Union of Jewish Women of South Africa is committed to investing in the people of South Africa and will continue in its endeavours to create a better quality of life for all

MISSION STATEMENT

The Union of Jewish Women of South Africa is committed to:

  • The needs and ideals of the Jewish community
  • The enrichment of the lives of all people of South Africa
  • The promotion of the rights and status of women
  • The strengthening of our links with Israel
  • The maintenance of our affiliation to the International Council of Jewish Women

The UJW has links to the following organizations:

  • Chairs the Co-ordinating Council of National Jewish Women’s Organisations
  • Chairs the Shalom Bayit Project
  • Network for Violence Against Women
  • Inter-Faith Forum
  • Gender Commission
  • Member of SANGOCO
  • National Women’s Coalition
  • SA Jewish Board of Deputies

INTERNATIONAL LINKS

  • International Council of Jewish Women
  • ICJW – Observer status at United Nations
  • UJW chairs Africa region committee
  • UJW chairs anti-semitism & racism portfolio
  • UJW has a Vice-President position on ICJW Executive
  • ICJW has consultative status on ECOSOC and representation on UNESCO & UNICEF in New York, Geneva, Paris, Vienna, Strasbourg