Congratulations on the wonderful milestone of the 300th
issue of Ladies’ World magazine!
For 300 issues, Ladies’ World has been so much
more than a magazine. It has built a vibrant community of readers, celebrated
the voices of women, preserved our heritage, and strengthened the fabric of our
Bukharian Jewish community.
A special thank you to Dr. Zoya Maksumova, Editor-in-Chief,
and to all the women who have volunteered countless hours of their time,
talents, and dedication to making this publication possible. Your selfless
commitment to the women of our community has informed, inspired, and connected
generations, leaving a lasting impact on us all.
As women, we are the heart of our homes and play
an essential role in shaping the next generation. By passing on our values,
traditions, and faith, we ensure that our Bukharian Jewish community continues
to thrive with strength, unity, and pride.
I am especially proud to see Ladies’ World continue
to evolve. By publishing in both Russian and English, it is reaching more women
across generations, ensuring that every reader feels connected to our shared
heritage, values, and traditions.
Mazal tov on this extraordinary achievement. May
Ladies’ World continue to inspire, empower, and unite our community for many
years to come.
Chagit Sofiev-Leviev
President of Bukharian Jewish Congress of the USA
& Canada
Passing the Torch: Celebrating 300 Issues of Ladies’ World
Some milestones are
measured in numbers; others by the lives they have touched. The celebration of
the 300th issue of Ladies' World magazine was both.
On June 23,
we gathered at the Art of Grill restaurant to celebrate this remarkable
milestone together. Dr. Zoya Maksumova, the magazine's Editor-in-Chief,
traveled from another state to join the celebration. Thanks to her vision and
dedication, this unique publication has continued to grow and thrive for nearly
27 years.
This unforgettable
evening brought together two generations of extraordinary women: those who
stood at the magazine's very beginning and those who are continuing its story
today. It was a celebration not only of the magazine itself, but also of
dedication, friendship, commitment to a shared mission, and the continuity of
generations.
Gathered around one
table, the magazine's founders shared memories of the early days of Ladies'
World. Especially moving were the stories of our longtime literary editor
– and the heart and soul of both the magazine and Esther-a-Malka – Rena
Elizarova, who recalled how, nearly three decades ago, a small group of
passionate women transformed their dream into a respected publication known far
beyond our community.
They remembered the
sleepless nights, financial hardships, and moments when it seemed the magazine
might not survive. Yet their unwavering faith in their mission and their desire
to inspire women enabled them to overcome every obstacle. Special appreciation
was also expressed for the women who joined the magazine in later years and
have devoted countless hours of selfless service to its continued success.
For me personally,
having only recently become part of the Ladies' World family, it was a
great honor to attend this celebration, where the passing of the torch from one
generation to the next became the evening's most powerful symbol.
The founders entrusted
us with their experience, encouraging us to continue the work begun by Dr.
Maksumova and her team. Our two generations are not replacing one another – we
are walking side by side, united by a common purpose. Like my six fellow young
colleagues, I am truly grateful to have become part of this family, whose
foundation is built on love for people, mitzvah, dedication, and
shared ideals.
May Ladies' World
continue to inspire new generations of women for many years to come.
Yelena Kalendareva
Congratulations to Ladies’
World on the Publication of Its 300th Issue!
Three
hundred issues represent far more than a publishing milestone. They are a
testament to vision, dedication, and the strength of women's voices within our
community.
For
me, Ladies’ World has been not only a source of inspiration but also a
platform for self-expression. I am proud to have been both a loyal reader and a
contributing author for many years. I have had the privilege of publishing my
poetry and articles about the activities of our Bukharian Jewish Women's Book
Club. Through the magazine, we have shared stories about our literary
gatherings, creative programs for mothers and daughters, museum visits,
educational events, and the friendships that continue to flourish through our
meetings.
What
makes Ladies’ World so special is that it gives women a voice. The
magazine keeps us connected to the life of our community while providing a
place where women can share their experiences, talents, achievements, and
perspectives. It brings generations together and reminds us that every story
matters.
I
am especially delighted that many members of our Book Club regularly contribute
to the magazine, including Zoya Aminova, Elena Levy, and, on occasion, Vera
Borukhov. Their writings, along with those of many other contributors, help
preserve our history and strengthen the bonds within our community.
The
magazine also deserves special recognition for celebrating individuals who make
our community stronger – Outstanding Mothers of the Year, community leaders,
young talents, and humble heroes - whose achievements are honored at inspiring
and memorable ceremonies.
My
heartfelt gratitude goes to Dr. Zoya Maksumova for her outstanding leadership,
vision, and unwavering dedication. Thanks to her efforts, Ladies’ World
has become a trusted source of information, inspiration, and unity for our
community.
Thank
you to the editors, writers, photographers, advertisers, volunteers, and
everyone who made these 300 issues possible. May Ladies World continue
to unite, inspire, and preserve our stories for many years to come.
With
gratitude and admiration,
Elana
Yuabova
Bukharian Jewish Women's Book Club
