Mentoring is central to SharingStories’ creative practice. Over 12 years our team has worked towards mentoring emerging First Nations content creators in creative and digital arts, using new media.
SharingStories is pleased to announce the launch of three Regional Mentorships in Broome for emerging creatives and cultural practitioners, Georgia King, Stanley Francis and Jake Powers.
Co-designed with Djugun-Yawuru photographer / filmmaker / designer / poet and Lead Mentor Michael Jalaru Torres, the creative industry mentorships will be delivered in a culturally safe learning environment in Broome and provide employment pathways for First Nations peoples in cultural leadership and digital media roles.
With the growing demand for creative services worldwide, the mentoring program allows emerging creatives to participate in the industry and forge career paths in their own communities for local impact. It also supports communities tell their own stories to authentically represent who they are and supports both economic participation and cultural practice, through storytelling and sharing cultural knowledges.
“The realisation of the need for more independent creative leaders in our region has been a significant catalyst for this undertaking. It is evident that there is a void in the representation of First Nation-created content, both within our community and in the commercial sector. By taking control of First Nation media and providing opportunities for emerging creators, we can foster the growth of diverse talents and ensure a more inclusive narrative.” – Michael Jalaru Torres
Delivered across 20 weeks between July 2024 and June 2025, the mentorships will empower early career content creators to reach their full potential through the opportunity to grow life and industry-specific skills. At SharingStories Foundation, we believe in supporting genuine opportunities for learning and development. This undertaking is the first of its kind in terms of scale as part of the SharingStories offerings.
This is such a valuable and important learning experience for Georgia, Stanley and Jake. They will have the opportunity to learn and draw the experience of Michael Jalaru Torres, the visionary founder of Blak Lens. This project will provide Western Australia with a team of young people who will have the skills that lead to long-term local employment in creative and digital arts. It’s a very exciting first step for both them, their communities and SharingStories.
Throughout the mentorship, mentees will gain experience and confidence in diverse media production capabilities and deepen their practice and understanding of the arts sector through one-on-one mentoring, group media production, peer review, peer networking, and online training. Mentees will be expected to undertake self-directed learning, develop a portfolio of creative works, and undertake industry work experiences to complete their education.
“I am ready to build my career in the creative industry and see where it takes me. I have always had an eye for this space and I’m excited to develop my knowledge and skills through SharingStories.” – Georgia King.
Overall, diverse Indigenous culture is central to Australia’s shared identity and future. Through providing Indigenous Australians’ knowledge and expertise, while addressing the lack of opportunities we believe we can improve social, economic, and cultural outcomes, and provide tangible difference for creatives and their respective communities.