OPINION: I can’t help but marvel at the impact my ‘safta’ has had on the world

As the great-grandson of Auschwitz survivor Lily Ebert, I am honoured to reflect on her incredible journey as she reaches the remarkable milestone of turning 100. Her life is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a woman who emerged from the darkness of Auschwitz, not only to rebuild but also to share her harrowing testimony with the world.

Growing up, I heard my great-grandmother’s Holocaust testimony of survival, courage, and unwavering determination that carried her through the darkest days of history.

Her life was forever marked by her experiences in Auschwitz-Birkenau, including the unimaginable horror of her mother, youngest brother, and sister being murdered in the gas chambers there. Instead of succumbing to despair, my great-grandmother made a promise to herself in the midst of Auschwitz-Birkenau—a promise to tell her story.

On her 100th birthday, I find myself reflecting on the profound impact she has had, not just on her family but on countless individuals touched by her resilience and wisdom.

Her story is not just a narrative of survival; it is a beacon of hope, a reminder that even in the face of unspeakable atrocities, the human spirit can triumph.

On her 100th birthday, I find myself reflecting on the profound impact she has had, not just on her family but on countless individuals touched by her resilience and wisdom.

Working closely with my great-grandmother to share her story on platforms like TikTok has been a humbling experience. Our goal was to connect with a younger generation, ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten or diluted with time.

Her willingness to embrace social media and engage with millions of followers has transformed her into a beacon of education and awareness—an international treasure, reaching over 2.1 million followers and over a billion viewers.

As a Holocaust survivor, my great-grandmother faces the disturbing reality of hate and denial on social media. Despite hurtful expressions and attempts to silence her voice, she remains resolute in her mission to share the truth about the Holocaust—an unwavering commitment to preserving the memories of survivors while they are still with us.

My great grandmother’s wisdom, born out of a century of lived experience, is a guiding light for us all.

As we eagerly anticipate the celebration of Lily’s 100th birthday, surrounded by her large and loving family of 10 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren, I can’t help but marvel at the impact she has had on the world. Her life, marked by tragedy and loss, is now defined by love, family, and an unyielding dedication to Holocaust education.

As the matriarch of our large and loving family, she has not only rebuilt her life but has also ensured the continuation of her faith and traditions. Our family proudly lives as Jews, observing traditions passed down through generations.

My great-grandmother implores us all to be tolerant and kind, urging us to recognise our shared humanity. Her plea resonates deeply, especially in a world that continues to grapple with prejudice and hatred. My great grandmother’s wisdom, born out of a century of lived experience, is a guiding light for us all.

As we celebrate the milestone 100th birthday, let us not only honour her incredible life but also take inspiration from her resilience, courage, and unwavering hope. Her legacy is a call to action — to educate, to remember, and to strive for a world where the lessons of history are eternally engraved in our collective consciousness.

Working alongside my great-grandmother in this endeavour has been a privilege, and I am profoundly honoured to be a part of her journey and to be able to call her my ’Safta’.