Inspiring Jew from Today: Sheryl Sandberg
Sheryl Sandberg is one of the top business leaders of today. As Chief Operating Officer of Meta (formerly Facebook), she helped grow the company into one of the world's largest technology businesses.
A passionate champion of women, Sandberg wrote the bestselling book Lean In, encouraging women around the world to pursue leadership with confidence and break down barriers in the workplace. Following the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023, she was concerned by the lack of international attention given to the sexual violence committed during the attacks. Determined to ensure the stories of Israeli women were heard, she used the same influence that had made her a leading voice for women to advocate for those she felt had been ignored.
In early 2024, Sandberg travelled to Israel with a film crew to interview survivors, released hostages, first responders, medical professionals and forensic experts. The result was the documentary Screams Before Silence, which she has described as the most important work of her life.
Sandberg has spoken passionately about the need to believe victims regardless of politics or ideology. She has argued that the principles of protecting women and condemning sexual violence must apply equally to everyone, including Israeli women. At a time when many felt these voices were being overlooked, Sandberg chose to use her influence to make sure they were heard.
While she remains recognised for her achievements in business, Sandberg's willingness to stand up for Israeli women demonstrates another kind of leadership. She shows us that true advocacy means standing by your principles consistently, even when doing so is difficult or unpopular.