Building upon its inaugural initiative, Façon Australia, supported by Greater Bank, has announced the launch of the second annual Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship (or Djuyalgal Scholarship – meaning the one who is telling the story in the local Gathang language). 

Façon Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Lara Lupish emphasised the importance of programs like these in offering opportunities to support the Indigenous community and the stories they have to share.

“This initiative aims to empower Indigenous storytellers in New South Wales, providing them with the resources and support necessary to contribute their unique perspectives to the creative arts landscape,” Lara said.

Recipient of the 2023 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, filmmaker Jahvis Loveday (from the Dyirbal tribe, who was born and raised on Bundjalung country in the Northern Rivers), reflected humbly on the profound impact of the program.

“The scholarship was a privilege last year. It helped me kick-start incredible projects over the past year, collaborating with Indigenous artists from my region and beyond,” Jahvis said. 

“I am excited to see the level of artists in this year’s event, showcasing various art forms.” 

Continuing their commitment to fostering creativity, Greater Bank will again provide one recipient $10,000 to pursue their creative aspirations. 

The scholarship not only offers a financial boost for the recipient but also provides all nine finalists across diverse categories, including writing, fashion design, accessory design, art painting, music, dance, digital art, film, and photography, with invaluable mentorship from industry leaders. 

Greater Bank Chief Distribution Officer, Emma Brokate said their team were excited to be part of the scholarship for a second year.

“With the inaugural year of the scholarship having been so successful, at Greater Bank we’re thrilled to be involved again,” Emma said.

“To see Jahvis thrive under this scholarship is wonderful, so we’re looking forward to being able to provide another talented Indigenous storyteller with this amazing opportunity.” 

The recipient of the scholarship will be unveiled at an event being held at the Murrook Culture Centre on July 11, 2024, coinciding with NAIDOC Week.

To commemorate this celebration of Indigenous creativity, a special edition of Façon Magazine will be curated, profiling the outstanding finalists from each category. 

Loveday’s 2023 film mentor, Matt Field (Kuku Yalanji country in Far North Queensland) is a broadcaster and television producer, best known in Newcastle for Music People and his involvement with the Adamstown Bowling Club’s live music scene. 

Enthusiastically sharing his support for the program, Field stated, that this is a wonderful opportunity and celebration of First Nation creativity.

“All storytellers who were nominated were able to use their unique creative gifts to connect community with Country, and it was an honour to share space with all the nominees,” Matt said.

“It was a privilege to meet Jahvis and hear his aspirations. He is a truly gifted visual storyteller and I’m looking forward to following this scholarship program for many years to come.” 

Applications are now open for Indigenous individuals, aged 18 and above, residing in New South Wales. 

For full details regarding submissions, visit Façon Magazine and Greater Bank’s website.

IMAGE | 2023 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship Winner, Jahvis Loveday.