Twenty-five First Nations students from across Australia graduated from NAISDA at a
ceremony held on Darkinjung Country, NSW Central Coast on Wednesday 24 June.
Held during NAISDA’s 50th anniversary year, the ceremony celebrated a graduating cohort
whose achievements reflect the artistic excellence, cultural connection and emerging
leadership that have defined NAISDA for five decades.
NAISDA Chairperson Mayrah Sonter said Graduation marked an important milestone for the
students, and a proud moment for the families and communities who have supported them
throughout their study and training.
“Today we celebrate 25 remarkable young people. Each graduate has walked their own path,
bringing their own experiences, strengths and aspirations,” said Ms Sonter.
“Through NAISDA they have travelled across Australia and overseas; studied in New York;
learnt and lived with communities in North East Arnhem Land and Moa Island in the Torres
Strait; collaborated with leading First Nations creatives and companies; performed at VIVID,
major festivals and events; and on occasion found themselves suspended 8 metres above
stage in an aerial performance harness.
“They have stepped well beyond their comfort zones, shared culture and story, and
discovered what they are truly capable of.
“These are the experiences that shape confident artists and strong leaders, ready for what
comes next,” she said.
A defining element of NAISDA’s training is its strong connection to industry and community.
Earlier this year, graduating Advanced Diploma students undertook placements with Outback
Theatre for Young People, with Drew Walker and Lena Parkes moving directly into
professional roles following graduation.
Advanced Diploma graduate Alira Morgan is already building a multidisciplinary practice as a
performer, choreographer and music composer, collaborating with leading artists across the
sector, many of whom are fellow NAISDA alumni.
The graduation ceremony also marked the opening of applications for NAISDA’s 2027 student
intake and the launch of a new Live Production and Technical Services qualification.
NAISDA CEO Kim Walker AM said the new qualification reflected the evolving needs of the
creative industries, creating pathways for First Nations students interested in technical
production and backstage careers.
“As we celebrate 50 years of achievement, we are also looking ahead, ensuring NAISDA
continues to grow and evolve to support the future of First Nations performance, both on
stage and behind the scenes,” said Mr Walker.
The ceremony was hosted by NAISDA alumnus and ABC Gardening Australia presenter
Clarence Slockee, with keynote addresses from fellow alumnus and award-winning Founder
and Artistic Director of Karul Projects Thomas E S Kelly.
Together, they represent generations of NAISDA graduates who have shaped Australia’s
creative and cultural landscape on stages, screens, in studios, classrooms, production teams
and communities.
Applications for NAISDA’s 2027 intake are now open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
young people aged 16 and over. Visit https://naisda.com.au/apply-to-naisda/ to apply before
31 August 2026.
