What happens when worlds collide? How does one merge a personal struggle with a national one? Ofekit Lugassi, a trans woman and social activist, shares her experiences living in the shadow of October 7th, her gender transition journey, and the unexpected connections between the two. Her captivating and honest story offers a unique perspective on events that shaped Israeli society.

At the heart of her lecture, Ofekit recounts her experiences during the Black Saturday in Sderot—the city she calls home—and her work within the Hostages' Headquarters. She describes her perspective on the unprecedented civilian mobilization and shares her insights as a trans woman navigating the public sphere during a national crisis. With sensitivity and candor, she explores the complexity of being part of a nation fighting for a common cause.

Ofekit believes in the power of personal stories to drive change and foster understanding. In her lecture, she offers a perspective on individual and collective resilience in the face of trauma, the role of hope in difficult times, and the possibility of finding meaning and purpose even within pain. Her story is a testament to the human ability to rise above hardship and take action, even in the most challenging circumstances.