Born in London, Dov Forman is an advocate for Holocaust remembrance, Israel and Jewish education. At the age of 16, he began sharing the story of his great-grandmother, Lily Ebert Z”L, a Holocaust survivor, with remarkable sensitivity. Thanks to Dov’s dedication to telling the truth about what really happened and combating Holocaust denial, over a billion social media users have been exposed to her story—many of whom may never have heard it otherwise. Dov co-authored Lily’s Promise, a memoir that includes an introduction by King Charles III, which became an instant New York Times bestseller and has been translated into 15 languages. He is also the recipient of the prestigious Points of Light Award, presented by then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Lily recently passed away at the age of 100, having travelled the world with Dov to share her harrowing Holocaust testimony with millions of followers on social media. Through their work, Dov and Lily created a lasting impact, ensuring her story continues to educate and inspire generations to come.
MEET DOV:
Tell us about Your project:
The initiative originated to preserve and amplify my great-grandmother Lily Ebert’s Holocaust testimony for younger generations during the COVID lockdowns. It began with a shared recognition of the growing gap in Holocaust education as survivors age and pass on, especially as antisemitism was so prevalent online and across the world during the lockdowns. I wanted to ensure that my great grandmother’s story, and the lessons it holds, would not only endure but resonate deeply with modern audiences.
The process involved translating Lily’s powerful testimony into formats that are engaging and accessible. Together, we co-wrote Lily’s Promise, a memoir that details her survival in Auschwitz and her subsequent rebuilding of life in freedom. The book was intended to provide a lasting written legacy of her experiences. To reach even wider audiences, I turned to social media, particularly TikTok. By sharing snippets of her story, reflections, and interactive Q&A ‘Ask Me Anything’ sessions, we managed to connect with millions globally, particularly young people who might not encounter Holocaust education in traditional settings.
Though initially focused on preserving my great grandmother’s testimony, it grew to emphasize much broader lessons for millions across the world of resilience, hope, and the dangers of hate. Through viral social media campaigns, partnerships with educational institutions, and collaboration with Holocaust and governmental organizations and museums, we sought to challenge antisemitism, promote tolerance, and inspire future generations to combat prejudice in all forms. It is my hope that by sharing Lily’s story, we remind the world of the human cost of hatred and the enduring importance of standing against it.
What is your proudest achievement?
One of the most unforgettable moments on my journey was seeing my great grandmother’s portrait displayed at Buckingham Palace as part of the Seven Portraits: Surviving the Holocaust exhibition. During the unveiling, my great grandmother turned to His Majesty The King and said, “Meeting you, it is for everyone who lost their lives.” King Charles responded, “But it is a greater privilege for me.”
Another deeply moving moment came on Lily’s 100th birthday, when she received a personal letter and bouquet from King Charles. His words captured the essence of her life: “By continuing to remind the world of the unimaginable atrocities which you witnessed, you have lived your life positively, with true nobility and without hatred, in a way that is an example to us all.”
Being honored with the Points of Light Award from Boris Johnson, at Number 10 Downing Street, was another moment of immense pride.
But my proudest moments were simply standing alongside my great grandmother as she shared her story—on stage, on television, in schools, and on social media. Seeing her inspire millions with her resilience and positivity was extraordinary and a huge honor for me.
How would you describe the impact of your Masa program on your life and professional path?
Spending a year in Israel on the Yeshiva Masa program was transformative for me. It was an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in Jewish learning, connect deeply with my roots, and explore the homeland that our nation has longed for over thousands of years. I left with a deeper sense of pride in my identity and a stronger connection to the global Jewish community. Sharing such an intense and enriching experience with others created bonds that have lasted long after the program ended.
Who is your role model?
My great-grandmother. The hardships she endured during the Holocaust are unimaginable, yet she rebuilt her life with an unwavering positivity and a profound sense of responsibility to share her story with the world. I never once heard her complain, express anger, or ask, “Why me?”. Instead, she lived her life with strength, kindness, and a commitment to ensuring that future generations learn from history. She not only survived; she thrived and built a large and loving family, that now survives her, of 10 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I am unsure of the exact professional path I will take and where I will be in 10 years. But what I do know is that I will continue to use my voice and platform to stand for what matters. I will remain dedicated to preserving the truth of the Holocaust and ensuring its lessons are not forgotten. I will stand up for the Jewish people, challenge antisemitism, and advocate for Israel as the homeland of our nation. These values are deeply rooted in my identity, and I see it as my responsibility to defend and promote them wherever my journey takes me.
What is your advice for young Jews around the world who want to make a difference?
Start by simply standing up and using your voice. Use your platform. Realize that with one click of a button — you have the power to make an impact. In today’s world, the social media era, your voice can reach more people than ever before, and you have the tools to inspire change.
My great grandmother often reminded me and other younger people in schools that you always have a seat at the table. Your voice matters. Even if your actions or words affect only one person, that still matters—it can create ripples that change the world. Never underestimate the power of standing up for what’s right, sharing your story, or speaking out against injustices.
Life throws all different opportunities at you. To become a game changer and activist, you need to turn those accidents, those opportunities, into meaningful, lasting change. What started as one viral tweet from me during lockdown about my great grandmother’s testimony, could have just been that–one viral tweet. But I took that attention we received from that one tweet and am still running with it today.