A captivating story of escaping from Nazi Germany
A captivating story of escaping from Nazi Germany
UK
Holocaust and Judaism educator discussing the issue of the rise of anti-semitism using his personal experience
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It went great! Our employees were very grateful to hear his expertise and many expressed that they learned things they hadn’t known before.
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About Freddy
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During World War II, Freddy’s mother and grandparents escaped from Nazi Germany for survival. However, his great-uncle and great-aunt both perished in Auschwitz, while his great-grandma was able to survive the awful concentration camps. An educated teacher, Freddy’s knowledge of the Holocaust and Judaism is not just personal, and he will almost certainly teach you about events and things, you never knew happened.
In his presentations Freddy shares his and his family’s personal stories and explains how his background and roots have affected him. He is a favorite among schools, where he continues to educate and inspire young adults to think about the issues of our history. Freddy has also given several talks to teachers, parents and the general public.
Unfortunately, anti-semitism is not a thing of the past. In his talks, Freddy discusses the issue of the rise of anti-semitism and draws in examples of his own experiences, both from his personal and professional life as a RE and music teacher. He talks about how it is to be Jewish today and strips away all myths and stereotypes regarding religion.
Not everyone is able to present a subject so tragic and difficult in a respectful manner, but Freddy continues to impress schools with his educational keynotes that leave room for thought.
See keynotes with Freddy NaftelWhat do you gain personally from being a public speaker?
The chance to spread my important message, something the media generally ignores. I enjoy addressing audiences as it gives me more and more confidence.
What is a common misconception people have about the Holocaust or Judaism?
Common opinions deem The Holocaust to be inclusive(?), irrelevant to today’s society and there are those who continually deny it ever happened. Therefore, people need seriously educating. As with any faith, most people have no idea what faith constitutes. Judaism is often coupled with Zionism, which is something totally different. I aim to break down myths and stereotypes.
The subject matter of your talks seems very personal, is this a challenge?
At first, I became very emotional and found it difficult to relax. However, although still a challenge, I now know exactly what to say and how to answer potentially difficult questions.
What types of unique experiences have you had as a result of your profession?
Meeting international students who knew nothing about The Holocaust but who told me they were honoured to have learnt the truth. The very mature attitude of all students and the way they talk to you about their own negative experiences of racsim.
Unfortunately, there have been just a couple of occasions when I’ve been faced with a Nazi apologist and generalised views of Jews and Zionists. It doesn’t deter me, rather the contrary. I have been lucky to work at such prestigious establishments as Eton, Marlborough and Wellington Colleges but I value the opportunity to work in all educational environments.
How did you begin your speaking career?
I gave short assemblies at Aquinas College in Stockport to mark Holocaust Memorial Week and decided to expand my material to emcompass other acts of genocide and racism. Most importantly, it gave me the chance to talk about my own family and the lessons I have learnt from their experiences, plus the opportunity to exorcise my own demonizing experiences of anti-semitism as both a student and professional teacher. This has made me a much stronger person.
How would you say you are as a teacher?
As a teacher, I am passionate about my subject and as a speaker, totally dedicated to educating people of all ages and backgrounds.
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