A Powerful Conversation with Heather Kaminetsky
As Magen David Yeshivah High School looks toward the future, the momentum and excitement throughout our community continue to flourish. Through immersive Torah learning in Torat Hayim, meaningful hesed initiatives, hands-on access to the Bloomberg Terminal, and the launch of the Magen David Business Institute, our students benefit from opportunities that are both exceptional and purposeful.
What was once a well-kept secret is now widely recognized, as interest in MDYHS has reached record-breaking levels, coinciding with the anticipation surrounding the opening of our new, state-of-the-art high school building in September 2027.
Together, these initiatives reflect the distinctive educational experience that defines MDYHS: one that integrates academic excellence, strong values, and real-world exposure. A recent program for our girls featuring Net-a-Porter CEO Heather Kaminetsky exemplifies this vision, offering students meaningful access to a global leader who embodies integrity, ambition, and purpose—and who inspires them to envision their own potential and future impact.
Magen David Yeshivah High School was honored to welcome Heather Kaminetsky, CEO of Net-a-Porter, for a meaningful schoolwide program for all of our girls, thoughtfully moderated by President Gladys Haddad.
Ms. Kaminetsky shared her remarkable professional journey leading a global luxury fashion company. Yet what resonated most deeply was her openness about the fullness of her life beyond the boardroom, as a mother, wife, and grandmother, and how those roles have shaped her leadership style.
She spoke candidly about the importance of asking for help and never being afraid to raise your hand when opportunity arises. She credited her husband’s unwavering belief in her, sharing how his support at home made it possible for her to step into leadership with confidence. She emphasized that parenting has strengthened her ability to manage, coach, and lead teams, teaching her patience, empathy, accountability, and the importance of developing others.
Ms. Kaminetsky reflected on how her children grew more proud of her work as they got older, and how her dedication encouraged them to work hard and take pride in their own efforts. She shared a powerful message rooted in faith and integrity, always do the right thing, and Hashem will take care of the rest.
The conversation also explored the reality of leadership and growth. Ms. Kaminetsky encouraged students to embrace risk and imperfection, sharing her belief in “leaving twenty percent room for failure,” because without failure, there can be no growth. She spoke honestly about commitment, explaining that success requires making things work even when it feels difficult.
When discussing balance, Ms. Kaminetsky offered a refreshing perspective. She shared that she does not love the word “balance,” because some days one priority must take center stage over another. What matters, she explained, is clarity and boundaries. She noted that she is “always on, always, except for Shabbos and holidays,” boundaries she set early in her career and made clear were non-negotiable.
Throughout the discussion, students and teachers alike were inspired by her authenticity, strength, and grounded sense of purpose. Ms. Kaminetsky’s message was clear, leadership, ambition, family, faith, and values are not mutually exclusive. You can build a meaningful career while staying deeply committed to who you are.
We are grateful to Ms. Kaminetsky for sharing her wisdom and lived experience, and to President Gladys Haddad for guiding such a thoughtful and impactful conversation. Programs like this empower our girls to envision futures defined by confidence, integrity, and possibility.
