The NAISDA Dance College, one of Australia's leading performing arts training organisations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, celebrated the remarkable achievements of its talented graduates this week.
Students from the Class of 2023 were spotlighted at a heart-warming ceremony at the organisation's Darkinjung Campus on the NSW Central Coast.
Bringing together Elders, community leaders, industry professionals and distinguished guests, the students – now viewed as the emerging talents of the next generation of First Nations performers and artists – were honoured by a series of special guests.
Although they did not physically attend, New South Wales premier, Chris Minns and federal minister for the arts, Tony Burke extended their congratulations through video messages, praising the graduate's creativity and cultural contributions.
A prominent highlight of the event was the moving keynote address by Australian singer, songwriter, actor, director, writer and comedian Elaine Crombie, a woman of Pitjantjatjara, Yankunytjatjara, Warrigmal, South Sea and German descent.
In her speech, Ms Crombie honoured her mother, actress and performer Lillian Crombie, who was one of the first NAISDA students in 1976. Lillian was fondly remembered for her incredible contributions, spirit, and enduring legacy.
NAISDA CEO, Kim Walker also expressed pride in the graduates, sharing how the 2023 class of graduates reflect the legacy and leadership of Crombie.
"Today's students and graduates reflect the legacy and leadership of our dear friend Lillian," Ms Walker said.
"Like her, we are confident that our graduates will become extraordinary First Nations performers, artists, and leaders.
"We are immensely proud of their achievements and eagerly anticipate their continued impact in our communities and beyond."
Whilst all graduates were celebrated, special recognition was given to standout graduates, Maddison Fraser, Peta-Louise Rixom and Holly Faulds.
Fraser secured a sought-after 2024 secondment position with DirtyFeet, offering her invaluable hands-on industry experience while Rixom is making her mark as Bangarra Dance Theatre's Indigenous Production Trainee, - having showcased her talent during the opening of Bangarra's latest production, Horizon, at Sydney Opera House.
Although unable to attend the ceremony due to her role as the 2024 Russell Page Graduate Youth Trainee with Bangarra, Faulds work in delivering Bangarra's Rekindling program is inspiring young First Nations dancers across Australia, nurturing future NAISDA students.
As NAISDA anticipates its upcoming NAIDOC celebrations, this year's theme, "Keep the Fire Burning, Blak Loud and Proud", resonates deeply with the spirit of the graduates.
"NAISDA has been keeping that fire burning for nearly 50 years now. We are excited for our graduates as they carry forward their culture, stories, and creative expression into the world of performing arts," Ms Walker.
Applications to study at NAISDA are now open. First Nations applicants aged 16 and over must submit their application before the 2nd of September 2024.
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