Laura Ben-David was a gifted photographer, writer, and devoted advocate for Israel. Renowned for her unique ability to infuse empathy and authenticity into both her words and images, she became a respected voice across Jewish, Israeli, and Anglo communities. Her award-winning photography has been featured in exhibitions, books, and journals. Laura also became a major contributor to the “Jewish Life Photo Bank”—a visionary project representing the diversity of Jewish identity through imagery. Prior to Laura’s death, the project was renamed “The Laura Ben-David Jewish Life Photo Bank”.
Laura’s storytelling was deeply rooted in her commitment to Israel and the Jewish people everywhere. Through evocative narratives, she connected audiences with everyday heroes making a difference.
She faced ovarian cancer with remarkable courage and grace, continuing to inspire throughout her most vulnerable moments. Yad Sarah provided unwavering support, enabling her to remain at home and maintain normalcy. Amy Gottlieb recalls, “When my sister was growing weaker from her cancer, Yad Sarah gave her the gift of remaining in the comfort of her own home. The chair that helped her stand and sit became her special place—a comfort we never even dreamed we could access on our own. Living in a building that had many stairs made it difficult for her to come and go, making her feel stuck in her own home until Yad Sarah arrived with a chair lift. Suddenly, she was free—free to move about, to have adventures, and to savor the precious time she had left. The wheelchair, the walker, and so many other items empowered her to help herself, and gave our family the chance to make her as comfortable as possible during her final months and days with us. We will always be grateful to Yad Sarah for everything they did for her.”
This moving story is emblematic of the narratives Laura was known for—revealing not only hardship but also the hope and dignity brought by the compassion of others.
Beyond her storytelling, Laura authored books, led inspiring workshops, and spoke internationally. Bridging tradition and modernity, empathy and action, her influence endures in the countless lives touched by her words and by the acts of kindness she championed.
