The Torch is pleased to announce a significant development in its leadership structure. Susannah Day, a Martu woman, will step into the role of CEO, while Kent Morris, a Barkindji man, will assume the position of The Torch’s Creative Director, forming a dual executive leadership team.

From its inception in 2011 with just two staff members and approximately 70 participating artists in the pilot program, The Torch has experienced substantial growth. Today, boasting a team of 26 staff and a community of over 900 participating artists, our organisation has steadily expanded over the past decade.

Susannah’s journey within the organisation has been impactful. Initially serving as the inaugural Program Manager in 2019, she effectively managed program delivery, development, and reporting for both In-Prison and In-Community programs. Additionally, Susannah provided vital support to our First Nations Arts Officers, facilitating their work with a growing number of participants.

In 2022, Susannah took on the role of General Manager working closely with Kent on all aspects of the organisation. In line with our continuing growth and the specialized skill sets of both, The Torch Board in collaboration with Kent and Susannah designed a leadership model that will best utilize their skills, passion and commitment to support First Nations people whose lives have been impacted by the criminal justice system. Kent’s new role will see him oversee cultural aspects of program delivery including exhibition curation, support for artists to access creative industry opportunities and brokering strategic partnerships.

“As an organisation, The Torch is committed to working closely with First Nations artists connected to our program to close the gap on incarceration. We are both deeply passionate in the belief that First Nations cultures, community knowledges and lived experience’s provide the foundation for creating much needed and overdue change.”