Ellie Zeiler, a 17-year-old social media sensation with millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram, has embarked on a transformative journey. Leaving behind the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, Zeiler is now exploring a deeper connection with her Jewish faith.Once immersed in a world of events and online validation, she realized the superficiality of her lifestyle. Now, she is running as a World Zionist Congress delegate on the Aish Ha’Am slate, aiming too advocate for young Jews and promote a more grounded and meaningful existence. Her journey began with a growing sense of unease and a yearning for something more profound.

Zeiler’s story highlights the pressures faced by young influencers and the search for authenticity in a digital age. Her decision to explore her Jewish roots reflects a broader trend of young people seeking meaning and purpose beyond social media validation. This quest for something more significant is resonating with many who feel the emptiness of a life solely focused on online metrics.

“I was at a point were I coudl barely turn off my phone for an hour,” Zeiler saeid, reflecting on her life before her spiritual journey. “Every morning, I’d wake up with so much anxiety when I checked my phone. I realized that the connection we think we have on social media is fake. It wasn’t a real connection. My days were revolving around me and my looks and makeup and surface level things.” This realization served as a catalyst for change, pushing her to seek a more authentic and fulfilling path.

This realization sparked a desire for something more substantial. Zeiler felt a pull towards her Jewish heritage, a connection she knew held deeper meaning. This yearning for something beyond the superficial is a common thread among many young people today, who are questioning the values and priorities of the digital age.

“I always knew there was something more to life, and it had to do with Judaism,” she explained. this innate sense of connection to her heritage guided her towards exploring her faith in a more profound way.

Growing up in San Diego in a Reform Jewish home, Zeiler attended Hebrew school and developed a love for Israel. While proud of her Jewish identity, she felt a lack of deeper understanding. This highlights the experience of many young Jews who, while connected to their heritage, seek a more comprehensive understanding of their faith.

“I was always very proud to be Jewish,” she said. “But I didn’t know the textbook rules of Judaism.” this sentiment underscores the desire for a more in-depth knowledge of Jewish traditions and practices.

A pivotal moment occurred after October 7th when a friend in Los Angeles decided to travel to Israel to study Judaism. This inspired Zeiler to embark on her own journey of revelation. The events of that day served as a catalyst for many, prompting a deeper exploration of their identity and faith.

“I decided I wanted to go too,” she said. “I’ll never forget calling my mom and telling her, ‘Mom, I’m going to learn to be a better person.’ she said, ‘That sounds great.’” This decision marked a turning point in Zeiler’s life, setting her on a path of self-discovery and spiritual growth.

A Journey of Meaning in Jerusalem

Zeiler’s experience at Aish’s Aspire program in Jerusalem proved to be transformative. The program provided her with insights and values that she now integrates into her daily life.Jerusalem, a city steeped in history and religious importance, served as the perfect backdrop for her spiritual exploration.

“They taught me such stunning concepts that I use daily,” she said. “A lot of them had to do with being a good person and being good to others.” these teachings resonated deeply with Zeiler, shaping her worldview and guiding her actions.

Upon her return, Zeiler has been sharing her journey with her followers, posting videos and pictures of herself praying, visiting the Kotel (Western Wall), and observing Shabbat. Her content reflects a commitment to living a more meaningful and grounded life. This transparency allows her to connect with others who are also seeking a deeper connection to their faith.

One of her posts read, “My neshama (soul) loved 2024.” This sentiment encapsulates her newfound appreciation for her Jewish identity and spiritual growth. It reflects a sense of fulfillment and contentment that comes from aligning one’s life with their values.

Zeiler aims to demonstrate that a religious life can be both fulfilling and compatible with modern life. She is challenging the perception that religious observance is outdated or restrictive.

“I’m showing people how to live the everyday life of a committed Jew,” zeiler explained. “I’m trying to do more every single day, as there isn’t an on and off switch. I’m showing that you can be modest and fashionable while keeping Shabbat, have an amazing friends group, and go out on Saturday night. I show how I’m living a religious life that is much more grounded and happy, with fewer of the pressures that society is putting on us right now.” This message is notably relevant to young people who are navigating the complexities of modern life while seeking to maintain their religious identity.

Keeping Shabbat for the first time had a profound impact on Zeiler. The act of disconnecting from technology and focusing on spiritual connection proved to be a powerful experience.

“I turned off my phone, and for the first hour, I was anxious,” she said. “I thought, ‘What if my mom calls me?’ Then, I had this feeling that if I’m making God happy, there is no way something is going to go wrong, so I should just surrender to it. It was amazing.”

She spent that shabbat resting, eating, playing games, and connecting with friends, experiencing a sense of peace and freedom from the constant demands of her phone. This highlights the importance of disconnecting from technology and prioritizing human connection.

“When I turned my phone back on after Shabbat, I had this sense that it was no longer in control of me,” she said. “Shabbat saved me.” This newfound sense of control and freedom is a testament to the power of intentional disconnection.

Running on the Aish Ha’Am Slate

Zeiler’s commitment to her faith and her desire to help others led her to run on the Aish Ha’Am slate for the World Zionist Congress. She received an award from Aish for her advocacy. This demonstrates her dedication to using her platform to make a positive impact on the Jewish community.

“I am the biggest advocate for Aish,” she said. “Everything they stand for I stand for as well. The slate has such amazing and diverse people of all ages and backgrounds.” This reflects her belief in the association’s mission and her desire to contribute to its success.

If elected, Zeiler plans to use her platform to support young Jewish students facing antisemitism on college campuses. She recently spoke with Jewish sorority members at the University of Texas at Austin who are experiencing threats and intimidation. This highlights the growing concern about antisemitism on college campuses and the need for support and advocacy.

“They told me they thought their job was going to be to plan parties and make new friends,” Ellie said. “Now they live three houses down from another house with a ‘Free Palestine’ sign, and they have to hire a security guard because people are threatening them.” This underscores the challenges faced by Jewish students who are frequently enough targeted for their identity.

Zeiler encourages her peers to embrace their Jewish identity and focus on personal growth.She is using her platform to inspire others to connect with their faith and make a positive impact on the world.

“If you are curious about connecting with your religion, go ahead and do it in small steps,” she advised.“Try and turn off your phone on Shabbat. Read a Jewish book. Do some mitzvahs. I promise you, once you start following the Torah, your soul will light up. You’ll feel so good.” This provides practical advice for those who are seeking to explore their faith and find meaning in their lives.

Ellie Zeiler’s journey from social media stardom to a deeper connection with Judaism serves as an inspiration to young people seeking meaning and purpose in their lives. Her advocacy for young Jews and her commitment to living a grounded, religious life make her a compelling voice for her generation. She is demonstrating that it is possible to live a fulfilling and meaningful life while staying true to one’s values and beliefs.