Az Cosgrove and Megan McLoughlin have been awarded scholarships as part of the 2023 ABC Regional Storyteller program.

The scholarship, in partnership with the Department of Social Services, is designed to promote emerging regional content creators with a disability, helping to break down unnecessary barriers and challenge community perceptions.

Az Cosgrove, from Heddon Greta in the Hunter Valley, NSW, said, “It means that I can still have dreams and goals and that I can still participate in cultural life.”

“It means the stories I have to tell matter.”

Scholarship winner, Megan McLoughlin, said the scholarship gives her the chance to be a part of the change, rather than wait for the change to happen.

“I get to be shown the skills to implement this change for the one in five Australians living with disability. For the first time in a long time, it makes me proud to be legally blind,” Megan said.

“I hope to inspire and encourage young people living with disability and to show them they are not alone and are capable of greatness. That everyone has a story worth telling.”

The Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth said the scholarship provides practical experience for the media industry’s new and emerging content creators.

“By amplifying the stories and perspectives of people with disability, we are helping to create a more diverse and inclusive society,” Rishworth said.

The two scholarship winners will work with various ABC teams over ten weeks to develop their skills, produce content and gain employment experience.