Scholarship Program
The ELLA Foundation Scholarship Program provides 20 scholarships per year for First Nations youth aged between 7-21 to attend regular dance tuition at a number of schools across Australia allowing recipients to broaden their skills and cultural identities through a range of dance fields and techniques. Applicants apply online each year and a selection panel asses and votes on successful recipients using the following criteria:
PASSION: The Applicant should demonstrate a strong passion to learn and pass on their love for their culture and creative movement practices
IDENTITY: The Applicant should demonstrate a strong cultural identity as First Nations or a desire to learn more about their heritage.
LEADERSHIP: The Applicant should exhibit potential leadership qualities within their community, school or performing arts institution.
MEANS: The Applicant’s needs and financial situation will be taken into consideration along with access to a support network within their community.
Applications for 2025 have now closed.
Please read our Scholarship Program Guidelines for more information.
Mentoring Program
The Mentoring Program has been designed to support and work in conjunction with the Scholarship Program. Through tailored mentorship, The ELLA Foundation aims to support young individuals in developing and growing their arts and cultural practice through regular dance training.
All successful scholarship applicants are automatically placed in the Mentoring Program with additional places offered to other applicants who demonstrate that they would benefit from the Mentoring Program. Each Mentee is provided with tailored mentoring by a First Nations mentor with appropriate skills, knowledge and experience in the dance and performing arts industry.
Mentors aim to provide a safe space for Mentees to discuss their goals, challenges and aspirations for the future. Using their personal and industry contacts, Mentors aim to offer opportunities for Mentees to access appropriate training programs suited to their skill level and provide practical advice to access further education.
Applications for 2025 have now closed.
Please read our Mentoring Program Guidelines for more information.