Meet our 2023 Sibella Court scholarship winner

Industry connectedness has always been at the core of everything we do at Billy Blue College of Design. Exhibit A: our partnership with Sibella Court, renowned interior designer, entrepreneur and founder of The Society Inc.

For the last few years, our partnership has been founded on supporting the growth of emerging interior designers. Together with Sibella, we have been able to provide invaluable career opportunities such as internships at The Society Inc., course development collaborations, and the Sibella Court Interior Design scholarship.

The scholarship represents an opportunity for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Interior Design with Billy Blue. Each recipient receives:

• Mentorship from Sibella to tap into her wealth of knowledge and experience
• Access to The Society Inc. offices and resources
• 50% off their tuition fees
• Opportunities to attend exclusive events such as our annual Sibella Court Walking Tour

Our most recent recipient: Xenya Case. We asked her about her experience as a recipient of the Sibella Court scholarship.

Introducing Xenya Case

How did you find out about the Sibella Court scholarship and how did you find the application process?

My scholarship journey began when I attended an Open Day at Billy Blue in Sydney in 2022. The campus atmosphere and the impressive work done by the students fascinated me. During the event, one of the lecturers mentioned the Sibella Court scholarship, which immediately caught my attention. However, it seemed like an impossible challenge at the time.

What creative piece did you submit for your Sibella Court application and why?

I have an immense passion for art, drawing, design and style. The idea of creating a ship came to me while walking along the beach, which was strewn with driftwood after a storm.

I chose the concept of a "ship" because many great adventures and discoveries have begun with a ship, in fact my ancestors were Dutch merchant shippers.

Whilst building this boat, my room turned into a literal shipwreck. It was filled with driftwood, tools, seaweed, photographs, ropes, and cut-up pictures for the sails.

By shaping these once aimless pieces into a ship, I gave them a new purpose and they are no longer adrift. My ship doubles as my mood board, telling the story of who I was, who I am, and where I want to go.

I hadn't anticipated how challenging and time-consuming it would be. As the submission deadline loomed, the real challenge was deciding what to leave out.

The word "ship" is so versatile—it represents friendship, relationship, scholarship, and even mentorship by Sibella Court, the true captain of Interior Design.

The top hat and cane were last-minute additions, representing Billy Blue as the "flagship" of Australian design, and I aspire to be a part of it and let it be my compass for my future career path.

Xenya Case's creative work submission

How have you found your study experience at Billy Blue so far?

Upon winning the scholarship, I have now commenced my Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential). During my first trimester at Billy Blue, I have received tremendous support. I joined Sibella Court on her historical walking tour. It was wonderful to be surrounded by like-minded individuals. I truly believe that my ship has now set sail.

What is your one piece of advice for any future students thinking of commencing their studies?

I would encourage them to be brave and apply for the scholarship. I poured my heart and soul into my creative piece and suggest they do the same. Don’t hesitate, just go for it.

Are you ready to take that first step towards your dream career? Together with Sibella, Billy Blue can’t wait to help and guide you on your adventure.