THE STARTS AWARD PROMOTES NEW TALENT & CREATIVE WELLBEING. IT IS A VISUAL ART & SPOKEN WORK COMPETITION FOR PROMISING ARTISTS AND WRITER/PERFORMERS CONNECTED TO THE MILITARY COMMUNITY (SERVING OR EX-SERVICE PERSONNEL OR FAMILY MEMBERS (18+).

WE GIVE ARTISTS & WRITER/PERFORMERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXHIBIT THEIR ARTWORK IN A PROFESSIONAL GALLERY OR TO PERFORM THEIR WRITING ON A PROFESSIONAL STAGE, AS WELL AS RECEIVING ONE-TO-ONE COACHING AND WORKSHOPS FROM INDUSTRY EXPERTS.

FOUNDER SUE BRODIE CREATED THE STARTS AWARD BECAUSE SHE NOTICED THAT THERE ARE LIMITED OPPORTUNITIES FOR ASPIRING CREATIVE TALENTS TO SHARE THEIR WORK IN A PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENT, & TO BE GIVEN THE CHANCE TO EXPAND THEIR PRACTICE BEYOND THE AMATEUR LEVEL.

  • "There is a significant need for opportunities such as this"

    - Participant 2023

  • “The STARTS Award has given me a massive boost in confidence and self-esteem to continue the work I love the most.”

    - Award Winner 2023

  • “The recognition gives you self-worth and allows you to start believing in yourself and what you are capable of.”

    - Award Winner 2023

  • "Real hope derives from creating a future, and I think the STARTS Award can be a good thing in that."

    - Participant 2023

  • "Creative Art has given me a purpose in life."

    - Participant 2023

  • "Amazing talent, amazing venue."

    - Audience Member 2023

  • "I am completely in awe of the performers, the artists, and the message."

    - Audience Member 2023

  • "10 out of 10! Frank and honest words, delivered with comedy, empathy, and much talent. Brilliant."

    - Audience Member 2023

  • "Exceptional"

    - Audience Member 2023