The Mushroom Group’s First Nations Pathway Program unveils new cohort of emerging artists

Phoebe Blogg Published July 2, 2026 at 4.00am (AWST)

arts

Creatives featured in the 2025 First Nations Pathway Program. (Image: Mushroom Creative House)

The Mushroom Group's First Nations Pathway Program has unveiled a new cohort of emerging artists as it celebrates five years of empowering the next generation of First Nations talent.

This year's First Nations Pathway Program roster includes another group of exciting artists from around country including Akala Newman, Djunmili Yunupingu, homebody, KIAH (The Violet Summers), Miles Nautu, MINTY, MOSS, and RIAH.

APRA and ARIA Award-winning artist, Triple J Blak Out host and member of First Nations hip-hop collective 3%, Nooky, returns as a mentor alongside APRA award winner and Emerging Songwriter of the Year 2026 Emily Wurramara, who previously mentored in 2022 and 2023.

"Four years in with the Mushroom and Coles First Nations Pathway program, it's been real—seeing mob come through, find their feet, and back themselves," said Nooky.

"For me, it's about creating space, opening doors, and making sure the next generation knows there's a lane for them. I'm proud to still be part of it."

*Promotional material for The Mushroom Group's First Nations Pathway Program. (Image: supplied)*

Since launching in 2022, the program, supported by Coles, has delivered an immersive education experience for 32 emerging First Nations artists from communities across Australia. During that time, participants have taken part in workshops and seminars connecting with over 40 industry experts - providing valuable professional development and insight.

Previous Pathway Program participants have gone on to achieve career milestones including performances at major events such as the blockbuster AFL Dreamtime at the 'G, SXSW Austin, and BIGSOUND.

Along with representing Australia internationally through performances in New York City with Sounds Australia and securing spots at major festivals around the country to name just a few opportunities.

"My father instilled at Mushroom the importance of First Nations talent being heard by the music world and we're proud to have worked with artists like Yothu Yindi, Christine Anu, Archie Roach, Dan Sultan, and many more throughout our fifty-year history," said Mushroom Group chief executive Matt Gudinski.

"That legacy continues to this day with the work we do, including the First Nations Pathway Program which is empowering the next generation of emerging artists."

Participants' original songs have been played at 800 Coles supermarkets nationwide and First Nations Pathway Program artists have been featured in Coles Magazine, which has a readership of approximately 4.4 million people.

"First Nations artists play an important role in sharing culture, connection and storytelling through music," said Coles head of events & sponsorships Carmel Horvath.

"Through our partnership with the First Nations Pathway Program, we're proud to help amplify emerging artists and share their music with millions of customers through Coles Radio in our stores across Australia."

"We congratulate this year's cohort and look forward to seeing the impact they make on Australia's music industry."

The First Nations Pathway Program songwriting masterclass will be held in Sydney later this year.

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