Nunga Screen: an ecosystem of sustainable First Nations filmmaking

This National Reconciliation Week, Country Arts SA is proud to share First Nations stories through our annual Nunga Screen short film showcase, now in its 15th year.

From a humble event to an international success, Nunga Screen has raised over $140,000 for First Nations arts and artists – including funding new works, royalties, and increased First Nations employment.

Badimia Yamatji woman Clare Elvia’s new role is a direct result of Nunga Screen’s reciprocity.

Clare recently joined Country Arts as Communications and Philanthropy Officer for Nunga Screen, with her position fully funded through the generous support of corporate hosts and sponsors from last year’s program.

The 26-year-old is well-acquainted with the film industry, having worked across videography, video editing, production and photography.

“I first found out about Nunga Screen when a film that I worked on as lighting assistant and stills photographer Black Time, White Time was included in the 2024 program,” Clare said.

“I’m so grateful that I’m able to work on the program from the other side now.”

Through this new position, Clare is looking forward to expanding her skills to arts communications, marketing, stakeholder engagement and philanthropy.

“What I’ve learnt so far working on Nunga Screen is how to engage different schools, communities and organisations to get involved, learning about marketing strategies and how they work,” she said.

“I was given the opportunity to edit the Nunga Screen trailer, and that allowed me to watch all the films in the program and get better acquainted with them.

“I’ve also learnt how to collaborate with the different teams at Country Arts that are working on Nunga Screen – even just being part of conversations is really beneficial and it all impacts my learning in a positive way.

“It’s given me insight into how First Nations programs can be delivered and sustained.”

Clare said her favourite part of Nunga Screen was seeing “our mob, our culture, languages and stories represented authentically on screen by our people”.

“I love connecting with so many First Nations people, it’s a real joy,” she said.

“These films have the power to sit and resonate with people and it’s something they can think about long-term.

“There’s a diverse range of voices and stories, something that everyone can resonate with, relate to or just enjoy.”

Clare is proud of Nunga Screen’s reciprocal nature: the proceeds generated by First Nations artists are reinvested in First Nations initiatives.

“My role was made possible because of funds raised by Nunga Screen through the Country Arts Foundation and I’m very grateful for it,” Clare said.

“Putting funds raised back into First Nations-led projects and roles creates pathways, sustainability and opportunities for mob to work, create and lead within the arts.”

Clare encourages everyone to share in powerful stories and support filmmakers this National Reconciliation Week.

“It’s a time to reflect on our shared history, engage in truth-telling, make real commitment to meaningful action, and ensure we’re having these conversations beyond this one week.”