URGENT UPDATE: Melbourne teenager Sophie Basist, just 15 years old, has surged into the national spotlight following her powerful speech at an anti-terrorism rally in Melbourne. This bold moment could mark the beginning of her political career as she sets her sights on becoming Australia’s first female prime minister.
On July 6, 2023, Basist spoke before a crowd of 1,000 people at the steps of the Victorian Parliament, alongside various cultural groups, solidifying her position as a prominent voice against antisemitism and a passionate advocate for Israel. Her activism has earned her the inaugural Upstander Award from B’nai B’rith International, recognizing her courage to stand up for her beliefs amid rising tensions.
“My dream is to be a politician. I’d love to be prime minister,” Basist declared, speaking to the Australian Jewish News. Her confidence and eloquence challenge the norm for her age, as she tackles complex issues while balancing her studies in Year 10.
Sophie’s journey into advocacy ignited following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. Attending a celebration at Mount Scopus Memorial College when the news broke, Sophie experienced a personal awakening that propelled her to educate herself and speak out. “After October 7… it made me want to educate myself more,” she explained, recognizing the need for youth representation in the conversation around antisemitism.
Frustrated by the lack of youth advocates in Australia, Sophie turned to social media to amplify her voice. “I felt like there needed to be someone like a teenager that stood up,” she said, aiming to inspire peers to engage with current affairs from a youthful perspective. Her posts resonate widely, reaching both Jewish and non-Jewish audiences who have praised her efforts.
Despite mixed reactions from her peers—some suggesting she should focus on typical teenage activities—Sophie remains undeterred. “I would rather do this than go to parties,” she asserted, showcasing her commitment to advocacy over conventional teenage pursuits.
The rally marked a turning point in her activism, propelling her to national recognition. “That was definitely a big jump for my advocacy. It was amazing,” she said, reflecting on the overwhelming support she received.
While Sophie faces daily criticism, including hate messages, she emphasizes the importance of resilience. “I get messages every day, like ‘Free Palestine,’ but I think that’s just expected,” she noted, highlighting the challenges young advocates face in today’s charged political climate.
Her mother, Marni Weinstein, expresses both pride and concern over Sophie’s activism. “It’s very hard as a parent… what she wants to do is so admirable,” she shared, acknowledging the delicate balance of supporting Sophie while ensuring her safety amid potential backlash.
Looking ahead, Sophie has ambitious plans for her future. She aims to study politics or law at Monash University and dreams of establishing an organization to support Jewish teens advocating for Israel. Her advocacy is deeply rooted in her commitment to educating others about the Holocaust and contemporary antisemitism, driven by a desire to prevent history from repeating itself.
“I think it’s the only way to combat this,” she stated, stressing the urgency of youth engagement in these critical discussions. Sophie’s message is clear: “You’re never too young to advocate.”
As her influence continues to grow, many are watching closely to see how this passionate teenager will shape the future of advocacy in Australia. Follow Sophie’s journey on Instagram at israelisreal_18 to join her mission and stay informed.
