11-Year-Old Israeli Boy Fights Antisemitism on Social Media

When Ben Carasso's close friend lost his father in the Nova music festival attack, the 11-year-old Israeli boy knew he had to do something. So he picked up his phone and started speaking truth to the world.

Ben posts videos in English and Hebrew, reaching hundreds of thousands of people across social media. His mission is simple but powerful: show the world what life is really like for Israeli children and help other kids find their voices against hate.

Growing up as a third-generation Holocaust survivor descendant, Ben has spent his childhood running to bomb shelters during rocket attacks. He's watched friends worry about family members on the front lines. These aren't stories he read about, they're his daily reality.

When an article featured Ben's advocacy work, antisemitic trolls flooded his accounts with hundreds of hateful comments. Some told the 11-year-old to "go back to Auschwitz like his grandfather." But Ben refused to stay quiet.

"My duty is to continue spreading the truth everywhere," he said. He takes his role seriously, reminding his followers that not everything online is real and everyone has a responsibility to check facts before sharing.

Ben recently traveled to Australia to meet with Jewish children experiencing antisemitism in their communities. He spent time with Summer Britvan, whose 10-year-old sister Matilda was killed in the Bondi Beach attack. "She opened up so much about her sister, how much she misses her, and how strong she is," Ben said.

Why This Inspires

Ben started his advocacy at just 8 years old, proving that age doesn't limit impact. He's filling a gap he noticed: children's voices are rarely heard in conversations about antisemitism, even though they're living through it. His message to other kids is clear: "If you believe in something, speak up and don't be afraid."

The Jewish Agency for Israel honored him with their Resilience Award. Israel selected him as the country's youngest torchbearer at their Independence Day ceremony, recognizing not just his courage but the change he's creating.

Ben's advice for young advocates is rooted in authenticity. "Be yourself. Believe in yourself when you do advocacy. I started at the age of 8. I believe others can do it even better."

One child with a phone is proving that speaking up matters, and that courage can start at any age.