Oriyan to run in brother Yohai’s honour
After losing her brother in a terror attack, Oriyan Avni will run the Sydney Marathon in his honour.
Israeli Oriyan Avni, who has called Sydney home for more than one year and worked at the Friendship Circle’s bakery, lost her older brother, Yohai, in 2024, when he was murdered in a terrorist attack, after dedicating 25 years of his life to protecting Israel’s people.
That loss changed her life, but she found a way to cope with pain, trauma and loss by participating in long distance running and triathlons.
As she puts it, “in every race I participate in, I carry Yohai with me – in my heart, in my memory, and on my shirt.
“And as part of my healing journey, I chose to honour Yohai’s memory through meaningful action, community involvement, and supporting others.”
Avni recently joined Shalva – an Israeli organisation that supports and empowers people with disabilities and their families.
She has run the Jerusalem Marathon and the Eilat Desert Marathon with them, and she will have “the honour” of running the 2026 Sydney Marathon on August 30 with, and for, Team Shalva.
“I’ll be carrying a flag in my brother’s memory, and representing him, in this important fundraising cause.”
All donations will go directly toward continuing Shalva’s work.
Avni has so far reached 60 per cent of her fundraising goal, and she expressed gratitude to everyone who has already donated, and who will be donating in the next few weeks.
“Thank you so much for all your support.”
To sponsor Avni in her Sydney Marathon run for Shalva, visit chai.org.au/cause/Shalva and write a private message when donating, to ensure it is counted under her Shalva fundraising tally.