Hostage survivor to tell his story at JNF events
In an exclusive Australian first, award-winning journalist Nadav Eyal will sit down with Hamas captivity survivor Eli Sharabi for a powerful on-stage interview that promises to be the centrepiece of the JNF Australia 2025 annual campaign, “Together, We Rise With Israel.”
Nadav Eyal
The event, which will see Sharabi share details of his 491 days in captivity for the first time on Australian soil, is set to be an intimate, in-depth conversation illuminating the human side of his harrowing ordeal. Eyal, a recipient of Israel’s highest journalism honour, the Sokolov Prize, will use his decades of experience reporting on the Middle East to unpack Sharabi’s journey.
“It’s an honour to be part of this moment with Eli Sharabi and the Australian Jewish community,” Eyal said. “Eli is not just a survivor – he is a symbol of Israel’s unbreakable spirit. This will be more than just an interview – it will be a deeply personal account of his time in captivity and his vision for a stronger and thriving Israel.”
Eyal noted that Sharabi has already transfixed audiences worldwide with his story of survival and resilience. “They were left inspired by his courage and determination,” he added.
Sharabi’s story of enduring hope and extraordinary will to rebuild for himself and for a stronger Israel will be brought to life as Eyal shines a light on the man behind the headlines. This event is a testament to human endurance and the deep desire to see Israel flourish again.
The special interview will take place in Sydney on September 2 and in Melbourne on September 4. Sharabi will also appear in Perth on September 7, with further guests to be announced.
As part of the Together, We Rise With Israel campaign, JNF Australia is supporting vital projects that help displaced families return to and rebuild their homes – stronger, safer, and more sustainable.
Key projects include:
• Water Reservoir Restoration at Kibbutz Nahal Oz – restoring critical agricultural infrastructure destroyed on October 7.
• Kibbutz Be’eri Outdoor Educational Space – building a central hub for play, learning and healing, offering children and families a sense of normalcy
• ImagineBox Learning & Treatment Space at Kibbutz Nir Oz – a therapeutic, immersive space for emotional recovery.
• Nature-Based Trauma Recovery in Kibbutz Ein Hashlosha – a healing green space for residents experiencing emotional distress.
• Community Stress Prevention Centre in Kiryat Shmona – innovative mental health support in Israel’s vulnerable north.
• Replant for Growth in Kibbutz Misgav Am – restoring the landscape and community throughreforestation and gardens.
Other vital projects will be supported based on the evolving needs of JNF’s partner communities.
“Eli Sharabi’s voice reminds us that the strength of Israel lies in its people. Through this campaign, we as a community will show that we stand with them, and will help them rise again.” said JNF Australia CEO Doron Lazarus.
Event Details:
• Sydney: 2 September | Tickets: $80
• Melbourne: 4 September | Tickets: $72
• Perth: 7 September | Tickets: $15–$54
Eli Sharabi will appear in all cities; Nadav Eyal will interview him in Sydney and Melbourne only.
For tickets, visit www.jnf.org.au or call 1300 563 563. Additional speakers to be announced.
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