‘Turning pain into purpose’

Released hostage Eli Sharabi will visit Australia for the first time to headline JNF Australia’s 2025 annual campaign, “Together, We Rise With Israel” – an effort to rebuild, renew, grow and heal communities in Israel’s north and south.

Sharabi, 52, will share his harrowing and heartbreaking personal story of survival. On October 7, 2023, he was brutally taken hostage from Kibbutz Be’eri and spent 491 days in Hamas captivity. It was only when he was released in February 2025, frail and traumatised, that he discovered his wife Lianne and daughters Noiya and Yahel had been murdered in their family home.

“Surviving captivity has shown me the power of resilience, the necessity of hope, and the unbreakable spirit of the Israeli people,” said Sharabi.

Despite the unimaginable trauma, Sharabi has become a powerful voice for resilience and remembrance – sharing his story on international stages and addressing global leaders and communities around the world.

His presence is expected to further inspire the Australian Jewish community and their deep commitment to supporting Israel.

“JNF Australia’s mission to rebuild lives and communities echoes that same spirit – turning pain into purpose and devastation into strength,” said Sharabi.

“I’m honoured to share my story with the Australian Jewish community, not just to remember what we’ve endured, but to inspire what we can rebuild together. This journey is not mine alone – it belongs to all of us who believe in a stronger future for Israel.”

For many years, JNF Australia has supported various projects in Be’eri, and this year’s campaign is focused on supporting strategic projects that bring families back to their homes – and not just to what was lost, but to what will be better, safer and more sustainable.

“For nearly two years, Israelis have been forced into shelters, living under siege, while simultaneously striving to emerge stronger – emotionally and physically,” said JNF Australia CEO Doron Lazarus.

“At JNF Australia, we believe it is our duty to meet their resilience with action. Rebuilding Israel is not only about infrastructure – it’s about healing lives and restoring hope.

“Our mission is to make communities in the north and south bigger, better, and more attractive than ever – places where people not only live, but thrive.”

Eli Sharabi will be visiting Sydney on September 2, Melbourne on September 4 and Perth on

September 7. To secure tickets visit jnf.org.au or call 1300 563 563.