After much anticipation, Facon Magazine has revealed the highly-anticipated winner of their 2024 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship – Dharug singer-songwriter Ruby Shay. Supported by Greater Bank, the scholarship empowers First Nations creatives, and this year, Shay’s powerful storytelling and emotive music resonated deeply with the selection committee. Central Coast Musician Takes Home Top Prize in Facon Magazine’s Annual Award
A Rising Star with a Powerful Voice
Hailing from New South Wales’ Central Coast, Shay’s music transcends genres. She uses her personal experiences to craft songs that connect profoundly with audiences, establishing her as a rising voice in the Australian music scene.
Music as Therapy and Storytelling as Duty
In her application, Shay described music’s profound impact on her life. “Music has empowered me to escape and find solace,” she shared. “It’s also allowed me to connect with others through shared experiences.” Shay believes storytellers have a responsibility to share their gifts with the world.
Scholarship Fuels Album Creation and Mentorship
With dreams of releasing an album, Shay plans to utilize the $10,000 scholarship to support production, promotion, and management of her upcoming release. Adding to the award’s prestige, Shay will also receive mentorship from acclaimed Gamilaraay musician Mitch Tambo. Tambo is a highly respected figure in Indigenous music, and his guidance will be invaluable to Shay’s artistic journey.
Mentorship Creates Space for Nurturing Talent
Tambo expressed his enthusiasm for supporting emerging artists: “Creating opportunities to identify and nurture talent is crucial. I want to help the winner shape their artistic vision and contribute to sharing our stories.”
Celebrating All Finalists and Indigenous Storytelling
Facon Magazine Editor-in-Chief Lara Lupish commended all finalists, including Shay. “Every finalist showcased exceptional talent and a unique ability to express themselves through their chosen creative medium,” Lupish said. “Ruby Shay’s music transcends personal expression – it’s a powerful tool that connects us to her heritage and experiences. Supporting these artists is core to our mission, and we’re excited to witness their continued impact.”
Explore the Scholarship and Celebrate Indigenous Creativity
To learn more about the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, its mentorship program, and discover the works of the 2024 finalists, visit the Facon Australia website. You can also access a free, online copy of a special Facon Magazine issue featuring cover star Mitch Tambo.
The National Indigenous Cultural Centre (NICC) is an Indigenous home.
We provide Indigenous products, music, art and news.
If you want Indigenous gifts and merchandise, bush tucker food at your next event or Indigenous entertainment at your next party, expo or conference, feel free to contact us!
Visit our page: https://nicc.org.au/
Tony Clemenger.
Chief Executive Officer.
Tel: 0419431649.
Level 1 397 Chapel Street South Yarra 3141.