The founder of Australia’s emerging activewear brand, Gia Active, has announced the heartbreaking death of her younger sister, Giaan Ramsay, who passed away at the age of 17. Justine Ramsay, a professional athlete and co-founder of the brand, described Giaan as her “soulmate” and “warrior,” sharing her grief and memories of a sibling who inspired both her life and her business.
In an emotional tribute posted on Instagram, the 27-year-old entrepreneur expressed her disbelief at the loss, stating, “My beautiful angel sister, I can’t even believe I’m sitting here writing this, it still doesn’t feel real that you are gone.” Justine emphasized the deep bond she shared with Giaan, saying, “Anyone who knows me knows my sister Giaan was my whole entire world. She was my light and my soul.”
Health System Concerns
While details surrounding Giaan’s death remain private, Justine raised concerns about the health system, believing her sister was let down by medical services. “She was failed by the medical system, and I will never stop fighting for her,” Justine asserted. “They never allowed her to have a voice, so I will be her voice. I owe it to her to make sure no one else feels the same, because they failed my girl, and now I have to try to live without her.”
Justine painted a vivid picture of Giaan’s character, describing her as “loving, thoughtful and the funniest person I’ve ever met.” She further noted, “She would make my belly laugh every day… we used to say she looked like a doll, because she was just perfect in every way.”
Giaan’s passing has prompted her family to launch a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral costs and to facilitate the reunion of relatives from South Africa. Launched on July 30, the campaign has already raised nearly $35,000 AUD within a few days, showcasing the outpouring of support from the community. Justine expressed her love on the fundraising page, writing, “We love you, our beautiful Giaan. You were an angel too kind for this world.”
Turning Pain into Purpose
Justine shared the deeply personal origins of Gia Active in a recent behind-the-scenes video. She has been a passionate runner since childhood but faced a severe injury two years ago that sidelined her from sport for over a year and a half, leaving her feeling isolated. “I just like lost who I was because all I’ve ever known is running,” she explained.
In creating Gia Active, Justine sought to transform her pain into purpose. “Gia is actually named after one of my beautiful sisters — Giaan,” she revealed. “She’s a true warrior and someone who embodies perseverance and resilience like I’ve never witnessed before.” The brand’s mission is to reflect Justine’s passion for sport while also honouring her sister and supporting mental health awareness.
Recently, Gia Active announced that 5 percent of proceeds from its latest restock will be donated to the Black Dog Institute, an organization dedicated to mental health research and education.
Justine concluded her heartfelt tribute with a poignant farewell, expressing both her grief and determination to keep Giaan’s memory alive. “Everything I do and everything I am is because of her. She taught me strength, resilience, courage — and what’s truly important in life. Forever 17. Rest in peace, my sweet girl.”
For those in crisis, support is available through Lifeline at 13 11 14 or beyondblue at 1300 22 4636. It is vital to reach out to trusted professionals or loved ones in times of need.
