OUR STORY
Founded in 2020 by Wiradjuri artist Ella Havelka, The ELLA Foundation empowers First Nations people through dance that uplifts, connects, and celebrates culture. The Foundation provides scholarships, mentoring, and community-based programs that nurture First Nations talent, build confidence, and strengthen cultural connection.
Through financial support, one-on-one guidance, and access to opportunities within our networks, The ELLA Foundation creates pathways for growth, identity, and belonging within the dance industry.
Grounded in the Wiradjuri principle of Yindyamarra – acting with respect, gentleness, and honour – we are committed to fostering an environment that celebrates community, culture, and creativity.
The Foundation’s work is made possible through the generosity of our donors and supporters, whose contributions help us deliver programs that inspire pride, empower emerging artists, and support the next generation of First Nations arts and cultural leaders.
Our Programs
The ELLA Foundation offers a range of programs designed to support First Nations young people through dance. Our Scholarship and Mentoring Programs run annually, while our Yurali Ensemble Ballet workshops take place during the school holidays in Sydney.
Once a year, we also host workshops on Wiradjuri Country in Wagga Wagga in collaboration with The Australian Ballet’s Education and Outreach team. In addition, we provide online Cultural Responsiveness Training for dance schools.
Please click the links below to learn more about each of our programs.
Brief History of The ELLA Foundation
2020
The ELLA Foundation was established by Wiradjuri artist Ella Havelka.
2021
The Scholarship Program was launched.
5 scholarships awarded.
2022
Workshops delivered in Sydney and Wagga Wagga.
10 scholarships awarded.
2023
The Mentoring Program was established.
20 scholarships awarded.
2025
The Yurali Ensemble Ballet was founded.
20 scholarships awarded.
2024
The Barradambang Dancers were formed.
15 scholarships awarded.
OUR IMPACT IN 2025
20
Scholarships Awarded
35
Mentees Supported
23
First Nations Voices Engaged
85
First Nations Youth Engaged
46
Workshop Hours Delivered
6
States and Territories Reached
Our Founder
Born and raised in Dubbo, Ella Havelka is a proud descendant of the Wiradjuri people. In 2013, she made history as the first Aboriginal dancer to join The Australian Ballet.
An alumna of Bangarra Dance Theatre and a member of Wagga Wagga’s Hands On Weavers, Ella is a multi-disciplinary artist working as a dancer, choreographer, performer and traditional weaver. She uses dance and cultural storytelling to empower future generations and advocate for social equity.
The documentary film ELLA premiered at the Melbourne International Film Festival in 2016. To learn more about Ella’s work, visit ellahavelka.com.
Our Board of Directors
Dr Jane Havelka JP - Director (Co-Chair)
Aunty Lorraine Tye - Director
Branden Etto - Director
Amanda Ugo - Director (Secretary)
Ella Havelka - Director (Co-Chair)