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Pink Poppy Flowers
Pink Poppy Flowers
Pink Poppy Flowers
Pink Poppy Flowers

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

Michael and Valentyna Britvan

Joining Sarah Grynberg for their first sit-down podcast interview are Valentyna and Michael Britvan, the parents of 10-year-old Matilda who was killed in the Bondi massacre. The couple speak candidly about the massacre, the desperate moments trying to save their girl, and the unimaginable reality of learning to live without her.

grief, resilience

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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 Beach

How they are navigating grief and unimaginable loss

Their concerns about antisemitism and safety in Australia

The people who risked their lives to help others that day

What they hope will come from the Royal Commission

Why 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. 

OUR GUEST

Michael and Valentyna Britvan

Joining Sarah Grynberg for their first sit-down podcast interview are Valentyna and Michael Britvan, the parents of 10-year-old Matilda who was killed in the Bondi massacre. The couple speak candidly about the massacre, the desperate moments trying to save their girl, and the unimaginable reality of learning to live without her.

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