DOCUMENTARY STORYTELLING INCUBATOR
Ngaluwi
Wave (Gatthang language)
First Nations storytelling is one of the most sophisticated forms of creative intelligence: profoundly intuitive, relational and intergenerational, it preserves knowledge while dreaming forward, offering blueprints for just worlds outside of the systems that define our collective futures.
Ngaluwi is designed to support documentary filmmakers reimagining social, environmental and political change. Offering tailored mentorship and strategic guidance for projects, the incubator will provide storytellers with access one-on-one with leading producers and impact experts.
Ngaluwi actively rewires the conditions in which stories are made, contributing to the full and sovereign expression of First Nations storytelling and enabling effective, culturally aligned solutions. It contributes to a broader shift we’re working toward: a documentary ecosystem that is inclusive, values-driven and led by First Nations voices. It’s a step towards a future where culturally safe mentorship is embedded in how we work, excellence is defined by both craft and impact, and where the development of First Nations talent is intelligible as fundamental to the future of the screen industry.
“Ngaluwi is a space where First Nations storytellers are supported in ways that honour cultural integrity and responsibilities to future generations.”
Genevieve Grieves, Worimi
Co-founder & Creative Director, GARUWA
Photographer: Ned Mansfield
PROGRAM
Ngaluwi stems from GARUWA ’s deep commitment to nurturing the next wave of documentary filmmakers. This bold incubator meets projects where they are to strengthen an ecosystem where First Nations voices leading the way in shaping stories of justice, healing and change.
Program overview:
GARUWA will meet with successful individuals or project teams to discuss their unique challenges and opportunities.
Our team will design a tailored mentorship, designed to meet your project where you most need support.
We will connect you with leaders in First Nations education, justice, self-determination, storytelling and healing or documentary filmmaking.
Our expert consultants will provide 1-1 support and guidance over the course of 6-months.
We will close with a virtual Lab designed to share projects and exchange insights.
MENTORS
-
Genevieve Grieves
Co-founder and Creative Director
GARUWA -
Laurrie Mansfield
Producer
GARUWA -
Hollie Fifer
Director of Special Projects
Doc Society -
Alex Kelly
Director of the Economic Media Centre
Australian Progress
ELIGIBILITY — TO BE UPDATED
WHO
The Lab is designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from across the continent, regardless of experience level. It is designed to reflect the diversity of First Nations experiences, across geographies, genders, ages and lived realities, and we encourage all blak storytellers to apply. If you have any questions about your eligibility please contact GARUWA: impact@garuwa.com
PROJECTS
If you are an artist, activist, campaigner or filmmaker actively working on a film, audio, digital, or multimedia project designed to highlight an issue or story that can create change and build power, this Lab is for you. It may be the seed of an idea or an established project. You may be responding to an issue that affects your community, carrying a story that’s been entrusted to you, or ready to take a nearly finished storytelling project out into the world with purpose.
WHEN
The Lab will take place from Tuesday 4 November to Saturday 8 November 2025. If you are travelling from interstate, we may organise for you to arrive in Gadigal/Sydney on Monday 3 November, please allow for extra travel.
COSTS
There are no fees to apply or participate in the Lab. All expenses including accommodation, food and travel are supported by our program partners.
We are committed to supporting caring costs, child care or other arrangements that will make it easier for you to attend the Lab if selected. Please advise us of your needs in your application and we will do our best to accommodate them.
Please note, you may need to take time off work to attend the Lab.
LOCATION
The retreat space at Shark Island Kangaroo Valley is a private residence in Kangaroo Valley on Wodi Wodi Country. It is generously shared with artists and storytellers for the development of creative projects and powerful ideas. Please note the accommodation consists of shared bathrooms and bedrooms with private sleeping quarters and change rooms. The property is not wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
For more details about eligibility, what to expect, and how to apply, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) section.
Ngaluwi: Documentary Storytelling Incubator is made possible thanks to the support of Screenrights
