High-end fashion magazine creative agency and events company, Facon Magazine has announced the return of the annual Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship.
An initiative created by Façon Australia and Greater Bank, the Scholarship is dedicated to supporting emerging Indigenous creatives who are passionate about sharing their unique stories through creative mediums.
With applications for the third annual program opening this week, Greater Bank will provide one exceptional applicant with $10,000 to pursue their creative aspirations in 2025.
The Scholarship is open to Indigenous applicants aged 18 and over, residing in New South Wales, who demonstrate a passion for storytelling through a creative medium.
For the first time, Greater Bank will also recognise the other eight finalists with $1,000 each.
The Scholarship will provide all 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.
The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship is overseen by a committee of eight local business leaders, including Awabakal board member and Indigenous employment partner at the University of Newcastle, Simone Jordan.
Entering her third year on the committee, Ms Jordan said the initiative celebrates Indigenous voices and fosters meaningful connections between culture, community and the creative industry
"It has been wonderful to support the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship and witness the incredible talent of our storytellers," Ms Jordan said.
"Seeing the impact of this Scholarship over the past three years has been truly inspiring."
Façon Magazine's editor-in-chief, Lara Lupish, said the scholarship is the magazine's way of ensuring Indigenous voices are amplified and supported.
"Storytelling is at the heart of Indigenous culture, carrying forward traditions, knowledge and identity," Ms Lupish said.
"This scholarship is our way of ensuring these voices are amplified and supported, inspiring a broader understanding and appreciation of Indigenous narratives."
NGM Group chief customer and digital officer, James Cudmore, of which Greater Bank is a part, said Greater Bank is a proud partner of the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship.
"We are very proud to support the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship for a third year, and its elevation of First Nations creatives who are telling their stories in unique and impactful ways," Mr Cudmore said.
"This year we have increased our support with the addition of $1000 for each of the finalists because we believe in the importance of recognising and nurturing First Nations talent, and we encourage all those with a passion for storytelling to apply."
Applications for the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship are now open, closing 1 May.
The successful recipient announced at a special NAIDOC Week event on 10 July.
For more fashion, beauty and lifestyle news subscribe for free to the Style Up newsletter.
