The ALMBC is proud to celebrate Board Member Letisha Ackland, Director of Balya Productions who has been named the recipient of the 2026 First Nations Arts and Culture Business Innovation Award by Creative Australia.
The award was presented on 27 May, marking the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum and the beginning of National Reconciliation Week, recognising outstanding achievement, leadership and innovation across First Nations arts and culture.
Balya Productions was recognised for its work building genuine pathways, representation and long-term opportunities for First Nations people within live music, touring and event production. In accepting the award, Letisha reflected on what the recognition means:
“This recognition marks an important milestone for Balya Productions, but more importantly reinforces that need for continued investment in First Nations leadership, workforce development and culturally safe pathways within live music, touring and event production. Balya Productions was built on the belief that representation matters, and that First Nations people deserve to be seen across every level of the live music, touring and events industry.”
Nearly two decades into her career, Letisha remains the only First Nations woman working nationally in live production and touring at this level. Her personal commitment to changing that reality drives the mentorship and workforce pathways programs Balya Productions runs across the country.
Executive Director First Nations Arts and Culture, Franchesca Cubillo, said of the recipients: “This year’s recipients and shortlisted nominees represent excellence across generations and disciplines, from lifetime achievement and cultural leadership through to emerging voices and innovative First Nations-led businesses.”
The ALMBC congratulates Letisha and the entire Balya Productions crew on this well-deserved recognition. This award belongs not just to Letisha, but to everyone who has trusted Balya Productions, participated in its programs, and helped prove that First Nations leadership in live music is not just possible. It is essential.
We can’t be what we can’t see. Congratulations, Letisha.
