After years of experience in social impact storytelling, Narungga woman Sianna Catullo chose to embrace the storytelling woven into her DNA, embarking on mission to ensure Mob have control over their own narratives and shaping a future where First Nations creatives take the lead.
Specialising in video production, photography and creative development, Catullo set out on a journey to co-found Blakground Productions - a majority Aboriginal-owned production company passionate about community-driven storytelling.
"Blakground was founded after years of conversations with my business partner, Greg McCann ... We saw firsthand how storytelling can drive real change—and why the mainstream industry still has a long way to go," Catullo told The Indigenous Business Review.
"What motivated us to start Blakground was seeing Mob having control over their narrative and stories.
"We envision a future where First Nations creatives are leading the way—telling our own stories, on our own terms, in every part of the industry."
Central to the foundation of their business, Blakground Productions prioritises authentic storytelling by and for First Nations people, ensuring that Indigenous voices are represented at every level of production while also educating and engaging wider audiences.
"Representation starts behind the scenes," shared Catullo.
"It ensures Mob has ownership over their stories.
"Blakground exists to tell Community stories first and foremost for the Community and non-Indigenous people second."
Having established the business in early 2024, Catullo and McCann share a combined 15 years of industry experience - proving that their knowledge and skills are anything but amateur.
"In the short time we've been operating, we've noticed that when non-Indigenous businesses engage with us, they often assume we are amateurs who need "help" and don't take us seriously," Catullo shared when opening up about the challenges experienced.
"While we may be a new business, my co-founder and I bring a combined 15 years of industry experience—on top of the 30 years I have simply being an Aboriginal person.
"We counter these assumptions by delivering industry-standard, high-impact work.
"We talk about these struggles on our social media and it's frustrating seeing so many Mob relate. We think talking about this publicly makes people aware of the issues and hopefully we educate our non-Indigenous audiences."
Having already reached some significant milestones during her first year of business, Catullo explained how deeply meaningful the projects the business has undertaken have been.
"We were the official VIC NAIDOC film crew in 2024—an opportunity that felt like an incredible honour, especially being entrusted with this role just months after launching our business," she said.
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"As a Nunga person, not Koorie, being asked to take on this important work showed me that the Victorian Aboriginal community trusted us, which meant a lot.
"Working with the Eddie Betts Foundation was a highlight.
"We traveled to Ceduna and Port Lincoln to film their Coles Healthy Kicks program, which was an incredible experience.
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"Collaborating with Eddie and his team was amazing, but what made it even more special was connecting with family—many of whom I met for the first time."
Blakground Productions also had the opportunity to collaborate with Champion for their NAIDOC campaign.
"We were excited to work with a mainstream brand with a different audience to raise awareness about NAIDOC Week, the theme and elevate First Nations creatives," Catullo said on the collaboration.
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When asked what changes she would like to see in the Australian media and film industries to better support Indigenous storytellers, Catullo stressed the importance of creating genuine avenues for First Nations people to explore the industry.
"Creating space and opportunities for First Nations people, creatives, and businesses to step into the industry is essential—not just for their growth, but for the benefit of the entire sector," said Catullo.
"It's about fostering a learning exchange where First Nations perspectives, skills, and stories are valued, shared, and integrated, enriching the industry as a whole.
"If you're reading this, think about how you can engage with First Nations businesses, collaborate and exchange ideas and resources."
Reflecting the changes they want to see, Blakground Productions is committed to shaping the Australian production landscape by empowering First Nations storytellers as they enter the industry.
"We do operate as a pathway program, supporting Mob who are entering this space for the first time," said Catullo.
"But while they may be new to the industry, storytelling is in our DNA. Working with Mob to share these stories isn't just a skill—it's an inherent strength.
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"My advice to young First Nations creatives breaking into the industry is simple—back yourself. We are natural-born storytellers, and no one can tell a Blak story better than Blak people.
"Don't be afraid to step into the space, even if it feels intimidating at first. Be proud, be confident, and know that your perspective is powerful and needed."
With some untold stories still waiting to be shared, Blakground Productions has some exciting projects on the horizon.
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"More travel is in the works, with invitations from local Mob across the country—an incredible opportunity to connect with communities beyond Victoria and work on meaningful, high-impact projects," said Catullo.
"There are also some exciting ventures in fashion and grassroots community initiatives, blending creativity with storytelling to amplify First Nations voices in new and powerful ways."
As Blakground Productions enters its second year of business, we eagerly wait to see the impact the team make with their story-telling rooted in authenticity, representation and community.