Help Send Jack & Jill to Croatia

We couldn’t be more proud to share that two incredible young athletes—our daughter Jill Donald (17, 1st-degree black belt) and her longtime training partner Jack Sharkey (16, 2nd-degree black belt)—have been selected to represent Team Canada at the ITF World Championships this October in Croatia!

Jill and Jack first met at pre-school when they were 4, and then again on the mats when they were just 8 years old. Since then, we’ve watched them grow—not only as martial artists but as determined, disciplined, and resilient young people. After years of hard work, early mornings, late nights, and pushing through challenges, they’ve earned their place on the national team. This will be Jack’s second World Championship and Jill’s first—an incredible milestone and a dream come true for both of them, but for Jill an amazing accomplishment as a Type 1 Diabetic.

Jill will compete in both sparring and power breaking

Jack will compete in both patterns and sparring

These two have poured their hearts into their training. They’ve shown us what true dedication looks like—and now they have the opportunity to show the world.

We’re currently raising funds to help cover the travel and competition costs so finances don’t stand in the way of this amazing opportunity. We would be incredibly grateful for any support—whether through a donation or simply by sharing their story. Any proceeds raised above our goal will be donated to the North Okanagan Taekwondo Association (NOTA) our local club's fundraising body that help all our fellow TKD athletes pay for tournament and travel expenses.

Every bit helps, and every gesture means the world to these young athletes.

Let’s help Jack and Jill not only climb the hill—but reach the top of the world stage.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in them.

— Proud Parents