Rayan is quietly making gymnastics history in New Zealand.

Rayan has been selected to represent New Zealand for a rhythmic gymnastics competition in Singapore in May this year. What sets Rayan apart is that he is the first male in New Zealand to do rhythmic gymnastics, a female dominated sport, at a competitive level. Rayan has also been invited to participate in the International Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament at the Platja d' Oro in Barcelona, in July 2024.

Rayan joined NHG Gymnastics in 2019, doing rhythmic gymnastics, and started being noticed when he began achieving podium finishes in various National qualifying competitions, around the country. More recently, Rayan came 1st in his level, at the Australian Championships, in Gold Coast, in 2023. Earlier in April 2024, he came 2nd in the New South Wales State championships.

Whilst Rayan is breaking ground in a female dominated sport in New Zealand, he receives no funding. Gymnastics New Zealand have advised anticipated costs for the Singapore event to be about $8,000 alone.

We are requesting your help for Rayan to achieve his dreams, as well as for Gymnastics New Zealand to spearhead male participation in rhythmic gymnastics.