The Aboriginal youth from Bathurst – and counterparts from Orange – are being mentored by Milan Dhiiyaan, which is described as a First Nations business that shares Aboriginal cultures and arts with all Australians.

As part of the mentoring, Milan Dhiiyaan is teaching the young people Aboriginal dance and associated stories and culture.

The young people are also learning about the Aboriginal performing arts industry, including how to lead cultural workshops.

Milan Dhiiyaan took the young people on a cultural trip to the Baiame's Ngunnhu Festival (Creator's Fish Traps Festival) in Brewarrina, which was organised by Moogahlin Performing Arts and was held last weekend.

Moogahlin invited Milan Dhiiyaan and the youth to be part of the festival by performing at the opening ceremony and leading cultural dance workshops.

Milan Dhiiyaan also gave the young people their own private, dedicated artistic skills development workshops during the cultural trip. 

This mentoring opportunity was made possible by funding from Regional Arts NSW.

“The young people involved, including Michelle Williams, Lesley Carberry, Tyleeah Carberry, Marissa Morgan, James Magick, Preston Magick, Deikan Dixon and Kristian Dixon, are breaking through barriers of social disadvantage to work towards achieving their dreams,” a Milan Dhiiyaan spokesperson said.

“Keep your eyes out for these young emerging artists in the future.”

The young people thanked Moogahlin Performing Arts, Regional Arts NSW and Milan Dhiiyaan for supporting Aboriginal youth in the performing arts.