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NAIDOC Week Spotlight: Joshua Barbo

09 July 2024

Every year the South Australian Film Corporation celebrates NAIDOC Week by highlighting the work of First Nations screen creatives living and working in South Australia.

This year we are showcasing seven First Nations South Australian creatives who are currently in the midst of writing original short film scripts as part of phase one of the SAFC’s First Nations Short Film Program.

The program is well underway, with the writers participating in an intensive weekend workshop last month with experienced First Nations filmmakers and mentors Pauline Clague, Dena Curtis and Aaron Fa’aoso, and experienced producer Paul Ryan of Adelaide Studios based 57 Films.

Once their polished scripts are completed each writer will be eligible to team up with a director and producer to apply for phase two of the program, and have the opportunity to take their short film into production.

Find out more about the First Nations Short Film Program here.

In this article we meet Whadjuk Noongar creative Joshua Barbo.

How long have you been a writer and/or in the screen industry? How did you get started?

I started at university, where a few assignments had me writing scripts. I have always been full of ideas, but university gave me the confidence and knowledge to know how to structure a script. I’ve been writing on and off for a while, developing many concepts and treatments.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from the SAFC’s First Nations Short Film Program so far?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of getting ideas and stories onto the page, even if they aren’t perfect at first. Overthinking and striving for perfection on the first draft can lead to serious writer’s block. It takes several drafts to get a script to the right place, so just putting all your thoughts and story onto the page is crucial to start the process.

What does NAIDOC Week mean to you?

NAIDOC Week is an important time to celebrate the achievements of Indigenous people. It’s a week where the community can come together, share stories, and connect. For me, it’s a meaningful reminder of our resilience and pride, as well as an opportunity to honour our culture and inspire future generations.

Read our other 2024 NAIDOC Week Spotlight articles on emerging Ngarrindjeri creative Leesha Cole and Wongutha, Mirning, Barngarla, Ndaju, Gubrun and Bulang creative Shania Richards.