Mothers’ Call for Hope and Peace: Rebuilding Hope and Advancing Israeli-Palestinian Partnership through Women’s Leadership with Catherine Shomali and Dr. Yael Braudo-Bahat (Episode #166)

In this eye-opening episode of Vision Beyond Sight, Dr. Lynn Hellerstein sits down with two women whose presence together could surprise you: Catherine Shomali—from Bethlehem, Palestine, a public relations professional with the Women of the Sun Association, peacebuilder, mother, grandmother and former teacher—and Dr. Yael Braudo-Bahat—from Tel Aviv, Israel, co-director of Women Wage Peace, activist, peacebuilder, mother, and former legal scholar—for a powerful talk about women’s leadership and cooperation in transforming conflict, rebuilding hope and advancing Israeli-Palestinian partnership during and after war. With Women of the Sun and Women Wage Peace working together, they share their personal journeys and the courage it takes to build bridges across one of the world’s most difficult conflicts, all for a vision of peace. Catherine and Yael explain what inspired them to dedicate their lives to peacebuilding. Both women want their children and grandchildren to have a future where they can live safely, remain in their homes, and build relationships across borders. They believe women bring essential perspectives from their families and communities and must have a meaningful place at the table when decisions about peace and security are made, as proven by the UN Security Council Resolution 1325. Their organizations have worked together to build trust and understanding through initiatives such as the Mothers’ Call. Despite the deep divisions and violence surrounding them, Israeli and Palestinian women have formed meaningful relationships and continue reaching across borders to listen, communicate, and work toward a shared future. Even after the devastating events of October 7 and the challenges that followed, Catherine and Yael remain committed to their mission. They encourage others to learn about their work, share their message, and support the people on both sides who continue working toward peace. Their story is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of conflict, hope, connection, and courage can create a vision that goes beyond borders—a vision of peace. Dr. Lynn Hellerstein, Developmental Optometrist, co-owner of Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center, P.C., award-winning author and international speaker, holds powerful and inspiring conversations with her guests in the areas of health, wellness, education, sports and psychology. They share their inspirational stories of healing and transformation through their vision expansion. Vision Beyond Sight Podcast will help you see with clarity, gain courage and confidence. Welcome to Vision Beyond Sight! Also available on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Audible and Stitcher.