Penny Hurst, raised and educated in Sydney, studied chartered accountancy, philosophy and education. Coming from a strong family history of communal involvement and support for Israel, Penny began to play a part in Keren Hayesod UIA Women’s Division soon after she was married.

A devoted and generous activist, involved in Israeli and Jewish affairs since 1975, Penny has held various leadership positions within Keren Hayesod United Israel Appeal – Chairman of Women’s Division NSW, Chairman of General Division NSW – she is currently Life Chairman of General Division NSW and Past President, Women’s Division Australia.

Internationally she was Vice President of IWD for English-Speaking Countries until September 2016 when she was elected President IWD. In 1998 Penny received the inaugural Keren Hayesod Yakir Award in honor of Israel’s 50th Anniversary for outstanding service to the Jewish people at a ceremony at the Citadel in Jerusalem, which was attended by the President of Israel and three Israeli Prime Ministers, past and present. In 2007, she received the Member of the Order of Australia Award (OAM) from the Australian Government for her service to the Jewish community, particularly through the United Israel Appeal of Australia and through fundraising for educational organizations.

Penny remains passionate and committed to her work for Israel and Keren Hayesod UIA.  She lives in Sydney with her husband Keith and has three children and six grandchildren.

She has been a Board member since February 2017.