Raya Strauss Ben-Dror

Raya Strauss Ben-Dror is a philanthropist, social entrepreneur, and businesswoman, leading and involved in numerous projects with a significant impact on Israeli society and economy.
A native of Nahariya and a descendant of an industrialist family that helped found the city, Raya has been deeply involved for many years in the development of the Western Galilee in tourism, social, cultural, and economic aspects. To realize her vision of advancing Israeli society, particularly the social and geographical periphery, Raya has devoted considerable resources over the years to dozens of initiatives, organizations, and activities. Her core mission focuses on developing excellence and leadership, aiming to reduce social, economic, educational, and cultural gaps among various sectors.

Raya views the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company as a significant anchor supporting Israel’s image and as a premier artistic institution, serving as a hub for developing excellence and a bridge between cultures and people of all ages and backgrounds. Motivated by this perspective and her desire to advance the company’s cultural, artistic, and educational endeavors, Raya has supported the company for over 20 years.

Her long-standing support of the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company has facilitated the establishment of the International Dance Village in Kibbutz Ga’aton and enabled numerous activities to take place there. Raya was insistent that the company’s activities remain rooted in the Western Galilee and not move to the central region.
In recognition of her involvement, activities, and support for many additional projects aimed at promoting excellence in the Galilee and Israel as a whole, Raya Strauss Ben-Dror has received numerous awards and honors, including the privilege of lighting a torch at Israel’s 62nd Independence Day ceremony.