The TEN 2026: Nominations Open for Israeli Women Breaking Barriers
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
The "THE TEN" initiative has launched its 2026 program, "GUESS AGAIN," to honor young Israeli women who have overcome challenges and achieved success. Thirty nominees are competing across ten categories, including sports, music, fashion, and social entrepreneurship, with public voting determining the final selections. The initiative highlights individuals like wheelchair basketball player Lehia Ben David, singer Shira Zluf, and social entrepreneur Daniela Gigi, showcasing diverse achievements across various fields. Voting is currently open on the ForReal platform.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- The "THE TEN" 2026 initiative, "GUESS AGAIN," is seeking nominations for young Israeli women who have defied expectations.
- Thirty nominees are competing across ten categories, including sports, music, fashion, and social entrepreneurship.
- Public voting is open on the ForReal website and app to select the final "THE TEN" team.
- Notable nominees include reality TV stars, content creators, singers, actresses, and athletes.
- The initiative aims to spotlight diverse achievements and resilience among young Israeli women.
The "THE TEN" initiative is returning for 2026 under the theme "GUESS AGAIN," this year spotlighting young Israeli women who have defied expectations and demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience. The program features 30 nominees across ten diverse categories, including sports, music, reality television, fashion, and social entrepreneurship. One nominee from each category will be selected for the "THE TEN" team by ForReal, with public voting open on their website and app.
Notable nominees include models Michal Peres and Fay Jakita, who gained wider recognition through reality shows like "The Race for a Million" and have since built careers in fashion. Reality TV personalities Shelly Sarbrianikov and Tal Tito are also nominated, with Sarbrianikov transitioning from "Big Brother" to leading campaigns for fashion and beauty brands, and Tito continuing to generate interest after her appearance on the show. Viki Chalmi, a dancer and instructor, is recognized for her performances and personal story shared on "Wedding at First Sight."
In content creation, Shoval Haziza is nominated for her growing online community focused on personal life and fashion, alongside her marriage to actor Omer Hazan. Adi Angel is recognized for her authentic and humorous content, while Dana Sham Tov, sister of hostage survivor Omer Sham Tov, is noted for her transition into fashion and lifestyle content creation and co-founding a swimwear brand.
Music nominees include Shira Zluf, who achieved a breakthrough in 2026 after finishing third in "The Next Star to Eurovision" and participating in Festigal. Or Cohen, the runner-up of "The Next Star to Eurovision," is nominated for her music career and her recent appearance on "Big Brother." Gal Juma is recognized for her shift from dancing to a solo music career.
In acting, Ariel Sitbon received her first major role in "Zaguri Empire," becoming a recognizable face. Riki Reif Sinai earned accolades for her roles in "The Commander" and the film "Because You Are Ugly," including an award at the Jerusalem Film Festival and an Ophir Award nomination. Mor Dimari is nominated for her breakout role in the drama series "The Truth" and her appearance in the film "Independence."
Food content creators like Little Miss Foodie (Rotem Weinstein Avital), Shiraz Choklo, and Danielait are recognized for their culinary content and participation in events like Port Chef. In fashion, stylist Korin Swayed, designer Shir Levi Lavi known for her sustainable brand Refuture, and fashion designer Shir Amar, who designed costumes for Eurovision, are among the nominees.
Social entrepreneurship nominees include Maayan Oron, founder of "Distributors of Light," which aids small businesses, and Daniela Gigi, founder and CEO of "Iron Community," which helps displaced individuals and security force veterans re-enter the workforce, earning her a spot on Forbes Under 30. Adia Robinson is nominated for co-founding "Front of the House," a project that helps families affected by the war furnish their homes.
Podcast creators Yael Israeli, Romi Geyor, and Jennifer Kim are recognized for their engaging discussions on pop culture, relationships, and identity. Sports nominees include wheelchair basketball player Lehia Ben David, a key player in Israel's silver medal win at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, archer Michaela Moshe, a European Championship gold medalist, and beach volleyball duo Daniela Gonzalez and Shirey Denenberg, who made history as the first Israeli women's pair to win the MEVZA tournament.