Fierce Jewish Women, Faith, And Fashion: Finding Our Voice

By: B. Aviva Preminger, MD, MPH, FACS

Last week, I attended the Batsheva Foundation’s Faith & Fashion event at Hudson Yards, an evening that brought together Jewish women leaders from some of the world’s most recognizable brands, including LVMH, Bergdorf Goodman, and L’Oréal. While the title suggested a discussion about fashion and beauty, what unfolded was really a conversation about leadership, purpose, identity, and impact.

As an observant Jewish woman, plastic surgeon, mother, and business owner, I found myself reflecting on how many of the lessons shared that evening transcended industries. Whether one is leading a global luxury brand, running a medical practice, raising a family, or volunteering in the community, the challenges are often remarkably similar.

Early in my own career, there were far fewer women in plastic surgery than there are today. As a young surgeon training in a field historically dominated by men, I was often the only woman in the room. While that reality could be intimidating, it also taught me an important lesson: waiting until you feel completely ready often means waiting forever. Looking back, some of my most significant opportunities came not because I felt fully prepared, but because I was willing to trust myself enough to take the next step.

One of the themes that resonated most deeply throughout the evening was that same message of self-confidence. Several speakers discussed the reality that women are often reluctant to pursue opportunities unless they feel fully qualified. Yet leadership frequently requires stepping forward before we have all the answers. Confidence is not the absence of uncertainty; it is the willingness to move forward despite it.

Equally powerful was the emphasis on education and continuous growth. The speakers repeatedly stressed the importance of learning, asking questions, and remaining intellectually curious. In medicine, that commitment to lifelong learning is obvious. But it is equally important in business, philanthropy, and community leadership. Growth requires humility and the recognition that there is always more to learn.

What struck me most was how naturally the discussion aligned with Jewish values. Throughout the evening, there was an underlying message about making an impact and leaving things better than you found them. We call this tikkun olam, the responsibility to repair and improve the world around us. Success is not defined solely by profit margins, titles, or prestige. Instead, it is measured by influence, mentorship, and the ability to create opportunities for others.

The conversation also explored the concept of beauty in a way that felt particularly relevant to my profession. One speaker noted that beauty is not simply about changing how someone looks; it is about changing how they feel. As a plastic surgeon, I witness this every day. The most meaningful transformations are rarely about a specific feature. They are about confidence, self-image, and helping someone feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Another fascinating discussion centered on branding and attention in an age dominated by social media. One panelist posed a question that has become increasingly relevant in today’s world: How do you stop the scroll?

In an environment where people are bombarded with endless content, capturing attention requires authenticity. Whether we are marketing a luxury brand, sharing a community initiative, or communicating with patients, people respond to stories and genuine human connection.

The panelists also emphasized that successful organizations are built by teams, not individuals. One speaker described creating meetings designed to foster passion, engagement, and participation, ensuring that everyone feels they have a seat at the table. True leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room. It is about creating an environment where others can contribute their voices as well.

That lesson resonated deeply with me. In surgery, while the surgeon often receives the recognition, excellent patient care depends upon an entire team. The same is true in every successful organization. Leadership means investing in relationships, developing people, and recognizing that no one succeeds alone.

The luxury industry offered another unexpected lesson. Luxury, according to the panelists, is not merely a product; it is an experience. That experience is shaped by every interaction a customer has with an organization. One speaker asked a simple but powerful question: Who is the last person your customer interacts with?

The answer matters.

Patients may remember their surgery, but they also remember the receptionist who greeted them, the medical assistant who comforted them, and the nurse who called to check on them afterward. Every touchpoint contributes to the overall experience. In many ways, service itself has become a form of luxury.

Perhaps most inspiring was the discussion of balance. None of the women suggested that balance means perfection. Instead, they described an ongoing process of prioritization, adaptation, and giving themselves permission to be imperfect. For Jewish women especially, many of whom are simultaneously managing careers, families, community commitments, and religious responsibilities, this message felt particularly meaningful.

As I left Hudson Yards that evening, I found myself thinking less about fashion and more about leadership. The women on that stage represented different industries, but they shared a common commitment to purpose, excellence, and service.

Their message was ultimately a Jewish one: trust yourself, continue learning, invest in relationships, create opportunities for others, and leave the world a little better than you found it.

That is a lesson worth carrying far beyond the runway. 

At Preminger Plastic Surgery, we are committed to educating our patients and providing personalized care tailored to their unique needs. For those considering plastic surgery, we offer guidance every step of the way to help you achieve your aesthetic and wellness goals. Dr. Preminger is a board-certified plastic surgeon with degrees from Harvard, Cornell, and Columbia.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit premingermd.com or call 212-706-1900. Follow us on Instagram @premingerplasticsurgery.