A powerful portrait and a passion for storytelling have earned Sean Kinchela the 2025 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, a $10,000 initiative from Façon Magazine supported by Greater Bank.
Kinchela, a proud Gamilaroi and Wiradjuri man based on Yuin Country on the Far South Coast of NSW, uses photography to honour culture, protect Country, and preserve memory.
His winning image—a cultural portrait of his partner—stood out for its emotional depth and technical mastery, reflecting his belief that photography is not just an artform, but a responsibility.
With the support of the scholarship, Kinchela plans to self-publish a guidebook to the South Coast that spotlights the region’s hidden gems, wildlife, and Indigenous community.
The book aims to showcase the land through an Aboriginal lens, drawing attention to the often-overlooked voices of Indigenous photographers.
In a creative industry where representation still lags, Kinchela hopes the guidebook will serve as a platform not only for his community, but for other emerging First Nations artists working in visual media.
His project seeks to combine natural beauty with cultural truth-telling—both timeless and timely in its mission.
Eight other finalists in categories spanning dance, writing, fashion, film, digital art, painting, accessories and music each received $1,000 and were paired with a mentor from their field.
The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship continues to spotlight talent across creative disciplines, fostering opportunity and connection for First Nations creatives.
As Sean begins work on his upcoming guidebook, there’s excitement around what he will capture next—through a lens shaped by Country, culture, and a deep commitment to storytelling. Be sure to give him a follow on Instagram and see more of his work by heading to www.localfamous.com.au.
