Women in "MAOF" (full-flight)

In honor of International Women's Day, we met three talented women who with the support of "MAOF"- Enosh's entrepreneurship program for people with psychosocial disabilities, managed to turn their dreams into successful professional businesses.

We interviewed them and heard how it all began, how "MAOF" assisted them in running a successful business and what is their message to other women who are living with mental health challenges or going through a crisis.

We invite you to read their stories and feel inspired>

Limor Schreiber, 45, Kfar Saba.
An award-winning multidisciplinary artist, graduated with honors from Bezalel Academy of Art and design, a lecturer, and art instructor and an owner of "Limor Schreiber – Art in the Making".


How did it all begin?
My love for art started at the age of 14 when I studied graphic art in high school. From the moment I touched the paint brush, I realized this is my destiny. I decided that once I finished the army I would pursue my dream and study art. During my army service, 4 soldiers that served in the same unit as I did were killed, my soul was crushed and I fell apart into a thousand pieces. I was hospitalized in a psychiatric hospital. I had to learn everything from scratch: to walk, to talk sensibly, to place my thoughts back in order and to make room for new thoughts.What held me together was the belief that I will become an artist which touched everyone's heart. On the psychiatric ward, I used to hand out my paintings in exchange for cigarettes and asked people to keep them because in the future their value will rise. Later, I went to study and found the studies very challenging. However, despite the mental illness, the dyslexia, the physical and financial hardships I did it! I graduated with honors and won the Blumenthal Design Award and The Sharet Fund award.

What MAOF Gave me:
I learned to be more independent, to know how to fulfil my wishes and understand that it is alright to receive support and not only give support.

My message to you:
To be true to who we are and what we have been through. Not to hide it, but the opposite, to acknowledge the fact that we overcame the hardships. It reflects strength and courage. Surround yourself with supportive people and don't hesitate to ask for help. 

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Malka Epstein, 28, Centre of Israel.

She holds a degree in multidisciplinary art from Shenkar-Engineering, Art, Design and a Makeup artist's certificate from the Yarin Shachaf School of Makeup. She is the owner of "MalkArt", a business which combines professional confectionery and makeup art.

How did it all begin?
I grew up in a family of 12 children. Due to the circumstances each child didn't get all of the attention. That is why birthdays were an exciting event, especially around the special cake my mother and sister made upon our request. This imprinted within me the desire to provide meaning to these events.

Over the years I developed a severe eating disorder as a result of PTSD. Some of the symptoms make it very difficult to function and complete daily activities, but running the business gives me a boost, it gives me meaning and strength to deal with what I experience on a daily basis.

What "MAOF" gave me:
The business coach and rehabilitation coordinators that support me at MAOF are what built me and strengthened me in the process of establishing my business. I felt that they have taught me a lot and gave me a lot of tools both in marketing and in my role as an entrepreneur. At times where I was struggling, that gave me the strength to pick myself up and continue doing what I really love.

My message to you:
Through experience and establishing the business I discovered in myself abilities and strengths that I never knew existed. I succeeded in turning my passion into my business. I believe that every woman can reach financial independence and fulfil the uniqueness that lies within her. I am grateful to the MAOF program for supporting me and helping me believe in myself.

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Zari Chamias, 33 years old from Gan-Yavne and the mother of Orin and Opal.

She is a professional cosmetic and owner of the brand "Zari Hamias Beauty Salon". Zari has a 15 years' experience as a make-up artist, a face beautician and a tattoo-removal cosmetic.

How did it all begin?
"From age 13 I was fascinated by beauty and cosmetics. For years, I used to do make-up for all my family and friends as a hobby. I was hesitant to develop it into a career until I met my business mentor at MAOF Enosh  – Bat Sheva, which supports guides me for the past 2 years. With small steps and amid my concerns, I managed to develop my business in the right way for me.
I cope with a Manic-Depression disorder and PTSD, but that doesn't stop me from succeeding with my business, family and in life.

What "MAOF" gave me:
My business coach and mentor – Bat Sheva. We've gone a long way together, also through very difficult circumstances of mine. She is very professional and patient with me, and that's exactly what I need to accomplish any dream of mine.

My message to you:
It's possible to overcome challenges and succeed, and it's much easier with the right guidance and people around you. Don't be ashamed to ask for help, it will allow you to grow organically into your own path.