Australian Schoolgirl's Heartfelt Fundraiser Supports Bondi Attack Victim's Family
An 11-year-old Australian schoolgirl has raised more than $40,000 for the family of Matilda, the 10-year-old tragically killed in last year's Bondi terror attack. Matilda was celebrating Hanukkah at a gathering held at the iconic beach when two men allegedly opened fire on the group, killing her and 14 other innocent victims.
Valentine Mayerson's Inspiring Initiative
Having seen the horror on TV, Matilda's story hit particularly hard for Valentine Mayerson, whose family missed the celebration for the first time last year and lost close friends in the massacre. While many wanted to step up and do something to support the victims, Valentine actually did. She started making small bee bracelets and selling them with the simple goal of sending Matilda's grieving family on a trip to Disneyland.
Valentine, who has grown close with Matilda's sister Summer, told Sunrise hosts Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington on Wednesday that Summer is the most deserving person. I think she needs happiness and a space away from all the terror and darkness, Valentine said. I think her parents, as well, need to not think about that as a bad thing anymore and think of what's to come.
Symbolism Behind the Bee Bracelets
The bracelets feature a small bee charm, chosen because Matilda's middle name was Bee, but Valentine said the symbol is more significant than that. I wanted it to be a sign of kindness and peace, and for it to spread around the world like a bee when it collects pollen and spreads it in its hive, she explained.
It started small, but the project has exploded into a global movement with almost 3000 bracelets shipped across the world, including to Europe, the US, Canada, and across Australia.
Family Bonds and Emotional Healing
The family has since formed a close bond with Matilda's parents, Michael and Valentina, along with Summer, who have visited their home to help make bracelets. Valentine's mother, Lexi, said making the bracelets was a way for her daughter to deal with difficult emotions. I think just making these bracelets was a way for Valentine to channel the anger, the frustration, the sadness, the disappointment into something productive and bring some light to a beautiful family, Lexi said.
Those wanting to support Valentine's cause can purchase bracelets at peacehive.org. This initiative highlights the power of community and compassion in the face of tragedy, turning grief into a force for good.
