Celebrating Indigenous Storytellers: Singer-songwriter Ruby Shay Declared 2024 Scholarship Recipient

The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, an initiative by Facon Magazine and generously supported by Greater Bank, has announced Dharug singer-songwriter Ruby Shay as the recipient of the 2024 program.

Ruby, a talented musician based on the Central Coast of NSW, captivated the Scholarship committee with her profound storytelling and emotive music.

She has emerged as a powerful voice, using her personal experiences to create songs that deeply resonate with listeners.

In her application, Ruby shared her passion for music saying that music had always been a form of therapy for her in two ways.

“One was away to escape into a world of make-believe where I could be someone else, in a different environment,” Ruby said.

“The other is that I could listen to songs that resonated with me and feel a whole lot less alone."

“I truly believe that if we are given the gift of storytelling, that it is our duty and purpose, that we owe it to the universe to share it.”

With dreams to release an album, Ruby plans to use the scholarship for the production, promotion, and management of her upcoming release.

In addition to the $10,000 monetary prize provided by Greater Bank, Ruby will receive mentorship from Gamilaraay man and Australia’s most electrifying World Music Star, Mitch Tambo.

In support of the scholarship, Mitch said it was important to create spaces that identified talent and nurture that talent.

“I want to help the winner shape what they need to achieve, as well as shape our story,” Mitch said.

Facon Australia’s Founder and Editor in Chief, Lara Lupish said they were immensely proud of all nine finalists for the 2024 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship.

“Each of them has demonstrated incredible talent and a unique ability to tell their stories through creative mediums,” Ms Lupish said.

“Ruby Shay’s music is not only a form of personal expression, but also a powerful storytelling tool that connects us to her experiences and heritage.

“Supporting these artists is at the heart of what we do and we are excited to see how they will continue to 9inspire and impact others with their creativity and storytelling.”

Greater Bank Chief Distribution Officer, Emma Brokate said Ruby’s heart and soul shone through her music and stayed with you long after listening.

“We’re so proud to be supporting her with this scholarship and know she has a big future ahead,” Ms Brokate said.

A bespoke issue of Facon Magazine, featuring cover star Mitch Tambo, was also produced for this Scholarship, which can be accessed for free online on the Issuu platform.

The Scholarship recipient was officially announced at an event at Murrook Culture Centre in Port Stephens on Thursday, July 11 during NAIDOC Week.

Visit https://www.faconaustralia.com/scholarship/ for more information about the Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, its mentor program and to view the works of the 2024 finalists.

• Topics:

• First Nations Peoples
• NAIDOC
• Scholarships
• Music and Entertainment