This Scholarship is now closed.
This scholarship is open to a NAISDA Advanced Diploma Practising Artist within the first 12 months of their study. It is to be used to attend a two-week study trip to New York. The scholarship will be assessed against the criteria below and awarded on the merit of their application.
ELIGIBILITY
Due to the generosity of the Joanne Harris Scholarship Fund, NAISDA is able to offer a scholarship to a NAISDA Practising Artist in their first 12 months of study, to attend a two-week study trip to New York.
A scholarship briefing will be held for all applicants following the scholarship announcement.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESS
This scholarship will be awarded to a Practising Artist who best meets the following criteria:
- Commitment: Demonstrates consistent dedication to their studies and learning journey at NAISDA.
- Attendance: Maintains an average attendance of 85% or higher.
- Creativity: Shows an innovative approach to creative and cultural practice across dance, choreography and storytelling.
Your application must include a detailed plan of study and proposed schedule, clearly outlining your artistic focus and areas of exploration during the two-week study period. It should specify the organisation, artist, or industry professional you wish to work with and why, the genres, techniques, and practices you intend to engage with, and the anticipated impact on your own work. Your Plan of Study should also explain how this scholarship will influence your practice, enhance your learning journey, and support your growth both as a NAISDA Practising Artist and as an emerging artist after graduation.
Applicants must also attach two letters of support:
- One from a NAISDA trainer or an industry-recognised dance professional external to NAISDA
- One from a community member
NAISDA will manage all administrative aspects of this grant, including the payment of fees and travel costs.
The successful applicant must agree to:
- Be available to undertake the period of study
- Acknowledge that this is an additional activity and return to full-time studies immediately following the study trip.
- Give a presentation about their study experience to the NAISDA cohort, with the content and format to be approved by the Advanced Diploma Coordinator.
- Comply with any additional conditions set by NAISDA as part of the scholarship.
All applications must be fully completed in order to be eligible.
The assessment panel for this scholarship will be made up of:
- NAISDA CEO (Facilitator)
- NAISDA Advanced Diploma Coordinator
- An external senior Indigenous Dance Artist
Please note: Selection panel members cannot be related to the applicant.
IMPORTANT DATES
The New York Study Trip will take place between July – August 2026.
Applications for the New York Study Trip Scholarship open Tuesday 26 May and close Tuesday 9 June.
Scholarship Announcement will be made at NAISDA Graduation on Wednesday 24 June
CONDITIONS
Scholarship Conditions
By completing an application, applicants agree to:
- Accept the conditions and assessment process set out in the guidelines
- Cover any cost associated with study that is not covered by the scholarship
- Grant permission for their presentation to the NAISDA cohort to be recorded and used for NAISDA training and media purposes, including the website, social media, and other platforms.
- Be available for any media opportunities arranged by NAISDA.
- Actively participate in all activities required by the scholarship.
QUESTIONS
For assistance with these guidelines and submitting your application please contact NAISDA CEO Kim Walker on (02) 4340 3155 or by email at k.walker@naisda.com.au