Date published: 24 April 2026
The Young Black and Proud scholarship program is marking a decade of supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people across Queensland, investing in talent, strengths and future pathways.
Delivered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS) Brisbane, in partnership with the Queensland Family and Child Commission, the Young Black and Proud scholarship has supported young people aged 25 and under to pursue their goals in sport, the arts and academics.
Since first launching in 2016, the Young Black and Proud scholarship program has grown significantly. In 2018, a partnership with Queensland Family and Child Commission allowed ATSICHS Brisbane to expand the program statewide, increasing both the number of scholarships available and the value of scholarship amounts offered. This expansion opened up greater opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people in regional and remote communities.
Together, ATSICHS Brisbane and the Queensland Family and Child Commission have now awarded 440 scholarships, supporting the goals and dreams of young people and creating lasting impact across communities. In 2025, scholarship recipients represented areas from as far north as Hope Vale to as far west as Mount Isa.
As the program celebrates its 10 year milestone, applications for the 2026 Young Black and Proud scholarship round are now open for both individuals and groups.
Scholarships of $2,000, $5,000 and $10,000 are available across sport, the arts and academics.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people aged 25 years and under who live in Queensland are encouraged to apply. Applications close on 25 May at 4.30pm.
Quote attributable to Renee Blackman, ATSICHS Brisbane CEO
- “Reaching 10 years of the Young Black and Proud scholarship program is an important milestone. It has always been about backing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to follow their goals, believe in their strengths and be proud of who they are. As we look to the future, we remain committed to walking alongside young people as they build strong pathways for themselves, their families and their communities.”
Quote attributable to Natalie Lewis, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Commissioner, Queensland Family and Child Commission
- “The Young, Black and Proud scholarships give us the opportunity to come together, to celebrate our kids, and be inspired by their bold aspirations and limitless potential.”
- “Seeing these scholarships awarded is one of my favourite days of the year and I can’t wait to see what this year’s recipients go on to achieve.”
Media contact
Quotes and/or contact details of previous winners can be shared upon request. For further information, please contact
Nardia La Spina | ATSICHS Brisbane
Phone: 07 3240 8900
Email: Nardia.Laspina@atsichsbrisbane.org.au
Media and communications team | Queensland Family and Child Commission
Phone: 0423 565 108
Email: media@qfcc.qld.gov.au