Wikimedia Israel marked the momentous 20th anniversary of Hebrew Wikipedia on July 14th with a special event, attended by approximately 150 members of the local community of writers and editors. The festivities took place at the modern and inviting SOK venue in Tel Aviv.
The event was expertly organized and led by the young writers Saifun Naveh and Erez Lustig, alongside Andre Frank, the Director of Marketing and Events at Wikimedia Israel.
The celebration commenced with words of blessing from Itzik Edri, Chairman of Wikimedia Israel. Following Itzik, Nataliia Tymkiv, representing the Wikimedia Foundation, made a heartfelt speech in Hebrew and even wrote an Hebrew Wikipedia article as a birthday gift.
In her address to the audience, ED Michal Wander Schwartz introduced the talented team behind Wikimedia Israel, providing insights into the organization’s operations. She also unveiled Wikimedia Israel’s unwavering dedication to excellence in education projects and an ambitious plan for a remarkable 50% expansion of their program for students writing on the Arabic Wikipedia in the coming year.
Guests at the event enjoyed engaging discussions, integration games, insightful lectures, as well as delightful culinary experiences, including a stunning two-tiered custom-made cake.
The winning logo that will headline the celebrations for the 20th anniversary of the Hebrew Wikipedia was also unveiled during the event. The design, crafted by user “Pixar,” was selected from nine voluntary proposals.
To enhance the reach and impact of the celebration, Wikimedia Israel was generously donated a massive screen in the heart of Tel Aviv. This valuable contribution not only commemorates the 20th anniversary but also significantly increases public awareness of Wikipedia’s vital role as a free and accessible source of knowledge for all.
The festivities also captured the attention of leading Israeli newspapers, including “Yedioth Ahronoth” and “Maariv”, which interviewed representatives from Wikimedia Israel and esteemed volunteer writers such as Maggie Roseman, Erez Lustig, David Shai, and Daria Kantor.
Undoubtedly, this celebration will be cherished in the memories of all those present for many years to come.
Mazal Tov! 🎉
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