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Façon Magazine announces nine finalists for The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship

Phoebe Blogg - June 18, 2025

Behind the scenes at a prior years Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship event. (Image: supplied)

Proudly presented by Façon Magazine and generously supported by Greater Bank, The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship is set take place once again this year.

Facon Magazine has announced the nine talented finalists selected for the 2025 program.

Now in its third year, the scholarship continues to uplift and empower Indigenous creatives from across New South Wales, offering access to industry mentors, professional resources, and a platform to share their stories with the world.

For the first time in 2025, eight finalists will each receive a $1,000 cash prize, while one outstanding recipient will be awarded a major $10,000 scholarship — all proudly provided by Greater Bank.

*2025 scholarship finalists. (Image: Supplied)*

This year's nine finalists span a diverse range of disciplines, with each one paired with an esteemed mentor to guide their creative journey.

Proud Wiradjuri man Nathan Lamont will be mentored by powerhouse performer and ARIA Award-winning artist Casey Donovan, and Gamilaroi man David Leslie will work with international supermodel and proud Dunghutti woman Samantha Harris.

"For me, music has been more than just a creative outlet. It's been a way to heal, to connect, and to honour the strength of those who came before me," said music finalist Nathan Lamont.

"I'm so incredibly grateful to Façon Australia and Greater Bank for creating space for First Nations artists to be seen and heard."

When it comes to dance and creative writing, Wiradjuri woman Shanaya Buddingh will be mentored by accomplished First Nations dancer and choreographer Kassidy Waters, whilst Wiradjuri woman Luca Sawyer will receive guidance from award-winning journalist and author Amy McQuire.

Darkinjung-born woman of Wiradjuri ancestry Elisha O'Leary will be supported by acclaimed artist and cultural educator Cassie Leatham and proud South Sea Islander, Bundjalung and Bayali man Joshua Yow Yeh will be mentored by dynamic filmmaker and producer Jahvis Loveday.

Across the creative arts and photography sector, Kamilaroi artist Zachary Carter will work alongside Gumbaynggirr artist and founder of Miimi & Jiinda, Melissa Greenwood.

Proud Gomeroi woman Tess Reading will receive mentorship from digital artist and Ngandabaa founder Rheanna Lotter, whilst Gamilaroi and Wiradjuri man Sean Kinchela will be guided by renowned visual storyteller and photographer Marley Morgan.

*Model Samantha Harris at The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship 2023 event. (Image: Supplied)*

Façon Australia's founder and editor-in-chief, Lara Lupish, said the 2025 finalists reflect a new generation of trailblazers in creative industries.

"Each year, this program reminds us of the importance of cultural representation and the strength of Indigenous storytelling," she said.

"These finalists represent bold, fresh voices in Australian art and design, and we're proud to walk alongside them as they shape the future."

NGM Group head of community and sustainability Kirrah McClelland, of which Greater Bank is a part, said creativity shown by the finalists highlights the impact of their art.

"The vision and talent these finalists have brought to their work is nothing short of inspiring," she said.

"We're proud to support their journey and can't wait to see how they grow through this opportunity."

The recipient of the $10,000 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, provided by Greater Bank, will be announced at a special event on Thursday the 10th of July 2025, during NAIDOC Week at Murrook Culture Centre, Port Stephens.

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