What happened to the ‘little refugee girl’?: the 102-year-old Holocaust survivor whose story started outside my doorstep

Sonja Ibermann Cowan, a 102-year-old Holocaust survivor, has forged a meaningful friendship with a writer in Berlin, her birthplace. This connection began during the pandemic when Sonja, living in Melbourne, Australia, reflected on her past and the tragic fate of her mother and sister, who were murdered by the Nazis.

For years, a local resident in Berlin maintained brass plaques outside their apartment, commemorating the lives of Sonja's family. This act of remembrance led to a surprising message that reignited interest in Sonja's history. Her grandson, Benjamin Preiss, a journalist, took the initiative to investigate their family's story, uncovering details about their experiences during the Holocaust.

Despite her advanced age, Sonja remains vibrant and engaged with her family, including her great-grandchildren and three daughters. Her life story is a testament to resilience and the importance of remembering history, especially as the world grapples with the lessons of the past.

The friendship that blossomed across continents highlights the enduring connections forged through shared history and the impact of personal narratives in understanding broader historical events.

Source: www.theguardian.com – https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/may/17/102-year-old-holocaust-survivor-berlin-australia-friendship-brass-plaques