Haftam Yizhak Heathwood was born into a Jewish family in Ethiopia during a period of civil war and famine. At age three, her family fled their home village in Gondar, finding refuge in Israel, where they settled in Beit She’an. In 2005, Haftam graduated from high school and went on to serve two years in the Israeli Defense Forces’ medical unit. Driven by a lifelong dream of living in the United States, she arrived in New York in 2011, beginning her journey as a caregiver.
Over the years, Haftam’s deep love for children and commitment to social impact led her to become a U.S. citizen and to pursue higher education. She recently graduated with a double major in Childhood Education and Psychology from City College. Alongside her studies, Haftam has contributed to numerous non-profit organizations, including Be’chol Lashon, JCC Harlem, JFREJ, and the Jews of Color Initiative, where she completed a fellowship. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Jewish Women’s Foundation of New York.
Haftam’s journey, spanning Ethiopia, Israel, and the U.S., is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Inspired by her experiences, she actively works to uplift others and advocate for equity, diversity, and justice within her community.