Storytelling as Advocacy: Screening, Q&A and the Lesley Hall Scholarship Announcement

Join us for a Disability-led inclusive storytelling event where you will get to enjoy: 

• Presentation of Lesley Hall Arts and Disability Scholarship 2026
• Screening of short films by Deaf and disabled filmmakers, followed by a Q&A panel session

Lesley Hall Arts and Disability Scholarship 2026  

Arts Access Victoria (AAV) manages the Lesley Hall Scholarship - an annual program for Victorian Deaf and Disabled artists and advocates. The scholarship is a $5,000 grant. More details about the Lesley Hall Scholarship and application details are in this link here. 

Through this scholarship, AAV honours the activism and legacy of their late Board Chair Lesley Hall. Lesley was a tireless advocate for the human rights of Deaf and Disabled people. She became famous for protesting the Miss Australia Quest in 1981. And she influenced the formation of the NDIS, amongst many other achievements.

Short Films: Storytelling as Advocacy (screening program + Q+A)

Short Films can be powerful tools for transformation. Aligning with the disability rights movement and a long history of advocacy. As demonstrated by the life and legacy of proud disabled advocate Lesley Hall.

Storytelling in short films can be an act of reclaiming power, sharing experiences and shifting ideologies. A way to disrupt assumptions and re-set stereotypes. We invite Deaf and Disabled filmmakers to share their invaluable insights and experiences.

This accessible session will be open-captioned, will feature Auslan interpretation for the talks and Q&A, and tickets are free - just make sure to register to reserve your spot!

This session will be open captioned.