Welcome to the latest part of Global Women Power’s “Meet Our Sheroes” series, in which we spotlight the extraordinary experiences of women who inspire all of us. We are honoured to highlight Staff Sergeant Kelly, a wonderful individual whose story represents dedication, resilience, and the power of women in leadership roles.
Staff Sergeant Kelly’s path exemplifies the bravery and tenacity of women in Israel. Kelly is currently serving in the IDF reserves and has spent the previous 90 days to her job, demonstrating the spirit of Israeli women who put everything on hold to serve their nation. “It is no longer just a man’s game,” Kelly boldly proclaims, emphasising how women are taking on important roles in the military. She feels that women can perform as well, if not better, than men in terms of national security. Kelly’s journey began with a strong interest in diplomacy and international relations, particularly in the complex and vibrant Middle East. She relocated to Israel to pursue these studies, believing passionately in the critical role women play in negotiations and international diplomacy. Kelly believes that women bring empathy and distinct viewpoints to the table, which can lead to more successful conflict resolution and international relations.
Kelly completed her schooling and then served her necessary two-year military duty. She later moved into government, serving as a spokesman for Israel’s Minister of Diaspora Affairs. Kelly’s job allowed her to help convey the minister’s message to Jewish communities around the world. She currently works as an innovation consultant at Deloitte, promoting Israeli technology to the global market and highlighting the country’s advances in AI and other sectors. Kelly’s present work in the IDF include interacting with the world press, a difficult undertaking in an age of widespread misinformation. She gives precise operational updates, ensuring that the world is aware of what is happening on the front lines from the perspective of the IDF.
When asked about managing emotions in such a demanding profession, Kelly acknowledges the emotional cost. “You have to put up a mental barrier to stay focused on your mission,” she tells me. Kelly intends to take time to process and recuperate emotionally when they have accomplished their goals. She also empathises with those who are continuously bombarded with news, acknowledging the tremendous impact on mental health.
Kelly commented on what diplomacy entails in layman’s terms. She described it as getting the greatest possible outcome for both parties, which necessitated nuance, strategy, and a grasp of the opposing party’s viewpoint. Kelly emphasised the value of traditional diplomacy in a day dominated by quick social media responses. “Diplomacy was used back in the day as a tool for people to really have deep conversations,” she said, expressing hope for a return to more comprehensive and compassionate dialogues in international affairs. Kelly noted that, while not her major focus, technology plays an important role in the IDF, notably in improving precision and reducing collateral damage. While she is not directly involved with AI, she did highlight the superior technological tools utilised in military operations, demonstrating Israel’s dedication to using technology for effective defence.
When asked about her future plans, she emphasised her desire to lead her country with integrity and make a positive difference. Although she is in the reserves, her daily activities are not limited to military tasks. She anticipates a future in which she has a good influence on both the army and the state of Israel. Her everyday drive is around making personal changes and contributing to her country’s well-being. This forward-thinking approach reflects her commitment to her country and community. She emphasised women’s distinctive contributions, emphasising that they bring empathy and a caring temperament to their responsibilities at home, in the workplace, and in the field. She believes that the natural ability to care for others will drive genuine change in the future. The conversation also addressed the broader societal impact of women’s positions, particularly in light of their simultaneous duties in the professional and household arenas.
The talk ultimately went to the ongoing confrontation with Hamas. She detailed the horrific attacks on women and children in Gaza’s south. The psychological impact of these events is significant, with many people, including herself, enduring nightmares. Despite these obstacles, she remains persistent in her determination to defend her country and reveal the truth about their story to the world.
The intricacies of urban warfare were exposed as she explained the IDF’s efforts to differentiate between militants and civilians. The employment of civilian disguises by Hamas fighters complicates these attempts, rendering the situation on the ground extremely difficult. Despite these challenges, the IDF is dedicated to minimising civilian casualties while defending its borders and protecting the protection of their citizens.
The war’s effects on women and families are especially severe. Many women are managing their families and children on their own while their partners are on the front lines. This combined strain is causing a tremendous psychological toll. The nation’s focus will need to turn to tackling the psychological repercussions of conflict, while also acknowledging the special challenges that women experience during such times. The economic consequences of the battle are also enormous, with many individuals unable to work or forced to adjust to new ways of working remotely. Offers of assistance, such as virtual jobs, were considered as viable strategies to reduce the economic burden and provide stability for individuals affected. She concluded by emphasising the necessity of international prayers and solidarity. The resilience and dedication of people in the IDF, particularly the women who play several duties, is incredibly inspirational. Their stories of courage and drive remind us of the human spirit and ability to persevere and strive for peace in the face of hardship.
This talk emphasises the critical role that women play during times of conflict, as well as their unflinching devotion to their country’s future. It serves as a strong reminder of women’s strength and tenacity in all aspects of life, from the battlefield to the home front. Staff Sergeant Kelly’s narrative is about empowerment, resilience, and determination. Her journey from studying diplomacy to serving in the IDF and working in the public and commercial sectors exemplifies the diverse roles that women may play in leadership and defence. Kelly’s experiences demonstrate the value of women in various industries, who bring empathy, perspective, and expertise to the table. Kelly’s experience and determination to making a difference inspires us. Her story is a striking reminder of how women can shape the world. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in our “Meet Our Sheroes” series, which celebrates the extraordinary journeys of women making a difference.
