Sofia Gonzalez
My parents named me “Sofia” because it means “wisdom” in Greek. My Hebrew name is “Alonia,” which means “strong as an oak.” I would say that both names are pretty accurate descriptions of my character. 😊
A South Florida native, I am a 7th Grade student at Gulliver Preparatory School, where I have attended since 1st Grade. When not attending school, you can find me hanging out and shopping with my friends and my sister, trying out new baking recipes, making TikTok videos, or performing in theatre productions. My passion is theatre; since I was 3, I have been very active in all aspects of theatre, having performed in more than a dozen community and school musical theatre productions and plays. I hope to be on Broadway or the big screen someday!
Why Sofia is excited to become a Bat Mitzvah
Becoming a Bat Mitzvah is a thrilling and meaningful milestone in my life. The anticipation of taking on new responsibilities and being recognized as a young adult in the Jewish community fills me with excitement. I've been working hard to prepare for this special day, studying Torah and embracing the traditions that come with it. Celebrating with family and friends adds an extra layer of joy to the occasion. I look forward to standing in front of my community, sharing my thoughts and insights, and feeling the support and warmth from everyone gathered to celebrate this important step in my journey.
Mitzvah Project
For my Mitzvah project, I’m incredibly excited to embark on a mission to make a positive impact in a child's life. I’ve chosen to raise money to grant a wish for a Jewish child in Israel or Southern Florida, through the Make-A-Wish of Southern Florida organization, an incredible foundation dedicated to fulfilling the dreams of children facing critical illnesses. When war in Israel broke out on October 7, 2023, Make-A-Wish Southern Florida stepped up to the plate, and announced that they would make sure that all eligible children in Israel continued to receive their wishes, notwithstanding the current conflict. I, in turn, am committed to raising the funds to grant a wish for one such child. The idea of bringing joy and fulfillment to a child facing adversity resonates deeply with me, and I’m committed to making a difference. Through various fundraising activities and reaching out to my community for support, I am working to contribute to the realization of a heartfelt wish. This project not only aligns with the values of my Bat Mitzvah journey but also reflects the spirit of kindness and compassion that I hope to carry forward into my adult life. To learn more about how you can work with me to create a life-changing wish for a Jewish child in Israel or Southern Florida with a critical illness, please visit my Fundraising Page.
Special Thanks!
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who helped to make this special day complete. Thank you to Rabbis Siegel and Fisch for your insightful guidance and support. Thank you to Gaby Ensertangir, Bat Mitzvah tutor extraordinaire and kind friend, for her expert skills at teaching the Aliyot and prayers to me, as well as all of the wonderful teachers in the Temple Judea JPLEX program who have guided me over the last 6 years!
I am also so grateful for the love and support from my friends, teachers and community. Finally, I would like to thank my family, especially my Mom, Dad and Sister who have helped to shape me in ways both big and small into the young adult that I am today. I am so appreciative to have all of you to share in this joyous occasion.
Shabbat Shalom!
