NAISDA Graduation 2025: Celebrating Culture and Achievement

Proud graduates from across Australia were celebrated at the 2025 NAISDA Graduation Ceremony, held on Wednesday 25 June on Darkinjung Country on the NSW Central Coast.

With a total of 28 graduating students, the event marked a significant milestone for five students, who graduated with the nationally accredited qualification of Advanced Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples at NAISDA— Australia’s leading performing arts training organisation for First Nations students.

Families, community members, Elders and arts industry leaders gathered to honour the achievements of the Class of 2024, with performances, reflections and a keynote address by Wiradjuri choreographer and Artistic Director of Australian Dance Theatre, Daniel Riley. His speech celebrated the role of culture, leadership and artistic innovation in shaping the future of First Nations performance.

“This Class of 2024 is an incredibly impressive group, showcasing the strength of First Nations’ artistic talent. Seeing the incredible work that they have undertaken during their time at NAISDA, and knowing they will now go on to make their own contributions to the rich and ever-evolving Australian creative landscape is exciting.”

“I’m thrilled to welcome Yuwaalaraay and Gamilaraay dancer, Joshua Doctor, to Australian Dance Theatre as a Company Artist, the first NAISDA graduate to join our ensemble on a full-time basis in the company’s history.”

NAISDA CEO Kim Walker congratulated this year’s graduates:

“Our students are culture carriers, storytellers and change-makers. These five graduates are ready to take their place as leaders in the world of performing arts and beyond. We are proud of their journey and excited for what comes next.”

Applications for NAISDA’s 2026 intake are now open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people aged 16 and over. Visit www.naisda.com.au/apply to apply before 2 September 2025.

Advanced Diploma Graduates L-R Erica Dixon, Brooklyn Bond, Joshua Doctor, Harlisha Newie-Joe, Tayla Jackson, Photo credit Lisa Haymes