Wiradjuri artist Ella Havelka will join a lineup of Indigenous performers and creatives this Saturday at Mindjiigari Ngurru; a cultural event taking place at Young Henrys in Newtown as part of the Inner West Country Festival.
The event is a collaboration between Awesome Black and the Inner West Ale Trail and is supported by the Uptown District Acceleration Program through the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner. Its aim is to embed Indigenous creativity into Sydney's late-night economy.
Meaning "From Sky to Country" in the Dharawal language, Mindjiigari Ngurru brings together live music, cultural dance, basket weaving and storytelling.
The event will feature a lineup of Indigenous artists, including Wiradjuri woman and multidisciplinary artist Ella Havelka.
Ms Havelka said being part of the event is a way to connect with community and keep cultural knowledge alive.
"Participating in Mindjiigari Ngurru lets me connect with the community and promote First Nations cultural practices in an engaging and inclusive way," she told National Indigenous Times.
"It's a chance to share and celebrate the survival of these cultural practices and contribute to Sydney's vibrant cultural scene."
Ms Havelka made history as the first Aboriginal dancer to join The Australian Ballet.
She said both ballet and weaving have shaped how she shares stories through art.
"My background in ballet has given me a strong foundation in technique and discipline, while weaving has allowed me to tap into my cultural heritage and explore different forms of expression," she said.
"Combining these disciplines enables me to create innovative works that reflect my identity and experiences as a Wiradjuri woman, empowering me to share culture in unique and impactful ways."
Alongside her practice, Ms Havelka runs The ELLA Foundation, which provides scholarships and mentorships for young First Nations artists.
"The ELLA Foundation, provides scholarships and mentorships to young First Nations artists," she said.
"By investing in these artists, we can ensure that our stories and traditions continue to thrive and evolve.
"This work is crucial in promoting diversity, preserving cultural heritage, and empowering the next generation of First Nations creatives and cultural leaders."
The event follows a previous partnership between Awesome Black and Yours and Owls, which saw increased representation through artists like Kobie Dee, Becca Hatch, Velvet Trip and Miss Kaninna, along with the introduction of a Respect Country cultural space.
