The First Lady

Fearing for her life, Israeli transgender pioneer Efrat Tilma had to flee the country as a teenager. Now in her seventies and a celebrated activist, she must fight for her rights once again, as the country spirals into unprecedented political and social regression.

The First Lady’s Impact campaign, developed with “Gila’s project for Trans* empowerment”, addresses the systemic challenges faced by transgender people in Israel, using the documentary as a catalyst for change. Efrat Tilma’s story reveals the harsh realities of violence, exclusion, and institutional discrimination, alongside her remarkable achievements and ongoing activism. The campaign seeks to create a bridge between the transgender community and the wider Israeli society, fostering understanding, respect, and inclusion. Through a series of strategic actions and community-led initiatives, the campaign aims to improve the personal and public image of transgender women, increase their participation in the public sphere, and offer critical support services.

impact producer – Roei Shaul Hillel