THE ISRAELI ANNUAL CONFERENCE FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT & AID

Lifetime Achievement Award

This award recognizes her enduring commitment to improving the lives of smallholder farmers in Africa through the founding and leadership of Fair Planet for over a decade, and her development of an innovative model for sustainable agriculture. Shoshan has successfully transformed the experience and knowledge accumulated in Israel, particularly in seed technology and desert agriculture, into a powerful engine for change in developing nations.

Alongside her work on the ground, Shoshan has built deep collaborations with universities, government ministries, seed companies, and international organizations, influencing agricultural policy in target countries. Simultaneously, she has made a unique contribution to the advancement of the international development field within Israel, by training the next generation of professionals, bridging the gap between academia and the field, and setting a high standard for ethics, partnership, and respect for local communities.

Her professional and personal path, characterized by persistence, humility, and a profound belief in the ability to create change from the ground up, even during exceptionally challenging times, serves as a distinct example of "Tikkun Olam in practice" and an inspiration to the entire community.

Award for Innovation in International Development

For over two decades, Aliza has led formative and diverse initiatives: through public service at MASHAV, consulting for international organizations, establishing the Pears Program within civil society, and conducting in-depth academic research at Tel Aviv University. In all these endeavors, Aliza has demonstrated a unique ability to translate forward-thinking into an applied, responsible, and impact-based language.

By founding and leading groundbreaking programs, developing models for training development entrepreneurs, and advising global policy bodies, Aliza was among the first to bridge technology, policy, and social impact. She recognized the inherent potential in promoting innovation specifically within the field of international development. Her consistent work in building the conceptual, professional, and institutional infrastructure that connects Israeli innovation with real global needs continues to influence a new generation of professionals today, setting a clear vision for the future of the field in Israel and worldwide.

Distinguished Organization Award

Presented for professional, values-driven, and sustained leadership in the field of international development, specifically in engineering, healthcare, assistive technologies, and community resilience, with an emphasis on fostering local partnerships, capacity building, and ensuring sustainability.

Operating as part of a broad international movement, the organization has led a diverse range of projects in Israel and worldwide for years. These initiatives create a tangible impact on the lives of target communities by developing engineering and technological solutions tailored to the local context.

In 2025, the organization distinguished itself by successfully and sustainably integrating the full operations of a closing organization, thereby strengthening the entire ecosystem. Furthermore, following the events of October 7th, 2023, the organization expanded its activity into Israel to provide accessible solutions for war-wounded individuals. By combining this work with the training of the next generation of professionals through student engagement, its activities in Israel and abroad continue to generate significant and long-term impact.

Distinguished Organization Award

For its long-standing contribution to sustainable international development, combining professional excellence, regional partnerships, and long-term impact. As a leading institution in the fields of environment, water, and energy, the Arava Institute works to strengthen local capacities and promote cross-border collaborations within a complex and sensitive reality.

The Institute’s activities combine academic and applied excellence with local capacity building, professional training, and the creation of spaces for cooperation. In 2025, the Institute stood out for its significant humanitarian aid in Gaza, through the establishment and implementation of sustainable solutions for water, sanitation, and energy challenges, built in full partnership with local communities.

This work joins years of ongoing regional activity based on accumulated knowledge, the building of local and international partnerships, and the dissemination of expertise. It demonstrates an exceptional ability to bridge the gap between emergency response and long-term development, creating a foundation for lasting impact.