Since the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack by Hamas, Gadot, who found international fame in 2016, when she first portrayed Wonder Woman in what became an American superhero franchise, and who is the first Israeli actor to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, has become equally well known for speaking out on behalf of her country. She has continued to do so despite the harsh criticism sometimes aimed at her as a result.

Before an international audience of 7,000 filmmakers, cinephiles and dignitaries, including Mayor of Jerusalem Moshe Lion, Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz presented Gadot with the Power of Dreams Award, an intricate papercut of a wreath of colored flowers created by Israeli artist Amalya Nini.

The dedication written on the award praises the actress for “using [her] global platform to advocate for truth and justice” and concludes with a line from the Biblical story of Esther, the Jewish heroine who risked her life for her people: “Perhaps this is the moment for which you were created.”

“The decision to honor Gal Gadot was a natural one,” said Schwartz. “At a time when Israel faces complex and painful challenges, her voice offers clarity and strength. This award is not just about dreams fulfilled. It is about the responsibility that comes with influence and the hope it will continue to inspire.”

Said Gadot, “This is an opportunity for me to say a huge thank-you for the award to Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, which plays a vital role in the development of medicine in Israel. I love my country and I’m proud to be a part of it and to make our voices heard.”