CIAF 2026 Ambassadors - EOI NOW OPEN

The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) invites Expressions of Interest from Aboriginal and Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait Islander creatives, cultural leaders and storytellers living in and/or connected to Queensland to join the CIAF Ambassador Program 2026. 

Aligned with the 2026 theme Reclamation & Regeneration, the Ambassador Program supports First Nations voices to share stories of Country, culture, practice and community, amplifying artists, designers and art centres across Queensland and beyond. 

This is a paid, professional opportunity designed to support cultural leadership, ethical storytelling and meaningful sector engagement. 

WHAT DOES A CIAF AMBASSADOR DO? 

CIAF Ambassadors may: 

• Participate in photo and video content for CIAF 

• Share stories aligned with the 2026 theme 

• Support key CIAF announcements and campaign moments 

• Attend CIAF events during the festival period (July 2026) 

• Engage with audiences, collectors and industry in culturally safe ways 

The program is designed and led by Talicia Minniecon (Mob Made Media and Communications Agency), CIAF Lead Ambassador 2026, in collaboration with the CIAF team. 

WHAT DO ALL AMBASSADORS RECEIVE? 

• Ambassador fee of $1,000 

• Formal contract outlining expectations 

• Professional photography and curated content assets 

• National exposure and industry connections 

• Optional access to professional development workshops (subject to funding) 

TRAVEL BURSARY FOR ZENADTH KES AMBASSADOR

Please note, this program is supported through external funding from Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), which enables participation from one Ambassador living in the Zenadth Kes by covering additional costs associated with geographic location. 

The Zenadth Kes Ambassador will receive support up to $5,000: 

• Return flights for CIAF-related activities 

• Accommodation during CIAF delivery periods 

• Living away from home allowance 

• Local transport related to program participation 

Participation support reflects the additional costs associated with geographic location. The Zenadth Kes Ambassador participates under the same program framework as all CIAF Ambassadors. 

WHO SHOULD APPLY? 

We encourage applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people who: 

• Are based in Queensland or have strong cultural connections to Queensland 

• Are active in arts, culture, design, community leadership or storytelling 

• Demonstrate cultural integrity and strong communication skills 

We welcome a diverse mix of voices, including artists, designers, community leaders, digital storytellers, youth and Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait Islander applicants. 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY