Bondi Massacre: Matilda’s Parents on Losing Their Daughter, Antisemitism & Finding the Strength to Keep Living

On December 14, 2025, Valentyna and Michael Britvan took their daughters to a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. It was meant to be an afternoon of family, food and celebration. Instead, gunmen opened fire on the crowd, killing their 10-year-old daughter, Matilda.

In their first sit-down podcast interview, Matilda’s parents join Sarah Grynberg for one of the most important and deeply moving conversations ever shared on A Life of Greatness.

Valentyna and Michael speak candidly about what happened during the Bondi massacre, the desperate moments trying to save Matilda and the unimaginable reality of learning to live without their daughter.

They also share who Matilda truly was: funny, kind, generous and deeply loved. A beautiful Australian Jewish girl who loved playing with her sister, giving hugs and making people smile.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

What happened to the Britvan family at Bondi BeachHow they are navigating grief and unimaginable lossTheir concerns about antisemitism and safety in AustraliaThe people who risked their lives to help others that dayWhat they hope will come from the Royal CommissionWhy they refuse to let hatred define Matilda’s memory

This is a powerful conversation about grief, love, faith, antisemitism and two parents determined to ensure their little girl is never forgotten.

They want Matilda to be remembered with warmth, smiles, love and light.

May Matilda’s memory be a blessing. To support Matilda’s legacy, please consider donating to The Matilda Foundation or the family’s GoFundMe via the links below.

Matilda Bee: Foundation: https://matildabee.org/

Matilda's GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-in-loving-memory-of-matilda

This episode of A Life of Greatness is proudly brought to you by Chemist Warehouse.