Scrolling through social media, it sometimes feels like everyone has something to say — and the loudest voices get heard first. But as a Jewish teen growing up in a digital world, I’ve learned that finding my own voice isn’t about being the loudest. It’s about remembering who I am, what I stand for, and where I come from.
The internet can make identity complicated. One minute I’m watching a funny video, the next I’m seeing hate or misinformation about Israel or Jews. It’s overwhelming. But through BBYO, I’ve realized that being Jewish online isn’t just about defending my identity — it’s about celebrating it. It’s sharing what being Jewish means to me: lighting candles before Shabbat, showing up for my community, and living by values like chessed (kindness) and emet (truth).
BBYO gave me the space to explore that voice. In person and online, I’ve connected with Jewish teens across the world who remind me that our heritage is alive, modern, and ours to carry forward. Whether it’s posting about Holocaust remembrance, standing up to antisemitism, or sharing an inspiring quote from the Torah that speaks to my generation, I’m learning that my Jewish voice can make a difference — even through a screen.
Of course, it’s not always easy. Sometimes I hesitate before posting something Jewish, wondering how others might react. But I’ve come to see that silence helps no one. Our ancestors used their voices to teach, to lead, to fight for justice — and it’s our turn to do the same, in the spaces we live today: TikTok, Instagram, Discord, and beyond.
Finding my Jewish voice in a digital world means choosing to be visible, proud, and authentic. It’s about balancing ancient wisdom with modern expression — bringing tikkun olam (repairing the world) to a place that sometimes feels broken.
Every post, comment, or conversation is a chance to represent something bigger than myself. And in a world that’s constantly changing, that’s how I stay grounded — by remembering that my voice is Jewish, and it matters.
My name is Mihaela and I am a BBG from chapter Gideon, Bulgaria and I love cats!
All views expressed on content written for The Shofar represent the opinions and thoughts of the individual authors. The author biography represents the author at the time in which they were in BBYO.