This South Australian rising star is proving that creativity can change the world – one zine, film and story at a time.
At just 19 years old, Aud Mason-Hyde has already carved out a remarkable creative path spanning acting, poetry, public speaking and activism – and their journey’s only just beginning.
Aud’s career is as multifaceted as it is inspiring. Born into a creative Adelaide-based family, Aud’s upbringing encouraged them to explore identity, expression and storytelling.
From stage to zine: Aud’s journey so far
Their work spans everything from acting in acclaimed films and winning Spoken Word SA’s inaugural Rumble SA Youth Slam, to explaining the trans experience to Vogue Australia magazine readers and delivering a TEDx talk at just 12 years old, where they challenged the audience with a simple yet profound question: “Why does it matter whether I am a boy or a girl?”
“I come from a feminist family of filmmakers,” Aud says. “That gave me the space to express who I was and question things. I was lucky to grow up in an environment where I could explore my identity without judgment.”
This foundation has fuelled their activism and artistry, which now includes consulting on projects like Channel Nine’s The Evolution of Gender and hosting expansive practice workshops on making space for queer trans people.
Bringing the dream zine to life
One of Aud’s current projects is the DREAMLIFE zine, an example of their commitment to amplifying young trans voices and building inclusive spaces.
DREAMLIFE is no ordinary publication. A celebration of strength, diversity and joy within the trans community, this zine spotlights voices that often go unheard.
With the help of a $19,250 Arts South Australia grant, Aud and their collaborators are imagining a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.
What DREAMLIFE means for the trans community
The DREAMLIFE zine was directly inspired by The Dreamlife of Georgie Stone, an award-winning, deeply moving documentary that reveals the memories of Australian trans teen Georgie as she changes laws and affirms her gender.
Aud saw how the film created space for trans stories to be told authentically and wanted to expand that concept into a format that could reach young trans people directly.
“The film showed us how powerful trans-led storytelling can be,” Aud says. “With DREAMLIFE, we wanted to take that idea further, providing a platform where trans voices could imagine and share their own futures.”
At its core, DREAMLIFE is about reimagining trans narratives. It’s a zine by and for young transgender, gender-diverse and non-binary people, offering strength-based stories and visions for the future.
Publishing hope
In an age dominated by digital media, choosing a zine format might seem unconventional, but for Aud, it’s deeply intentional.
“Zines have so much political and historical significance for marginalised communities,” they say.
More than that, it’s a tangible artifact of connection and hope.
“There’s something so powerful about holding a physical object that proves other people like you exist,” Aud says. “For young trans people who might feel isolated, having this zine in their hands means they’re not alone. It’s proof of community.”
Nurturing next gen creatives
The first edition of DREAMLIFE was distributed in LUSH Cosmetics stores during WorldPride 2023 and sent to hundreds of young trans people and organisations across Australia.
Thanks to the Arts South Australia grant, the next edition of DREAMLIFE is already underway, involving a team of five trans creatives who are not just contributors but also gaining valuable publishing experience.
“One of the brilliant things about this project is that it’s not just about creating the zine,” Aud says. “It’s about nurturing the people involved. They’re meeting mentors, learning industry skills, and building connections that will help them in their careers.”
Building community through art
Aud’s work doesn’t stop at DREAMLIFE. They are also the co-founder of TRANSMEDIUM, a community arts organisation for young trans people.
Through TRANSMEDIUM, Aud and their friend, Claud Bailey, are creating spaces for trans creatives to connect, collaborate, and thrive.
“So much of our time as trans people is spent explaining ourselves to others,” Aud says.
“With DREAMLIFE and TRANSMEDIUM, we get to drop that pretense and just talk to each other. It’s a space where we don’t have to be legible to a cis audience.”
This freedom to simply exist and create has already led to incredible outcomes. From fostering creative expression to providing industry opportunities, Aud’s projects are paving the way for a more inclusive arts landscape in South Australia and beyond.
Lights, camera, action: Aud’s acting career
Aud’s talent for storytelling extends beyond activism and zine-making. As an actor, they have gained recognition for their ability to bring authenticity and depth to their roles.
Aud’s latest film, Jimpa, has just premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival.
In Jimpa, Aud stars as Frances, a nonbinary teenager navigating family dynamics and self-discovery while visiting their grandfather in Amsterdam.
The film also stars Academy Award winner Olivia Colman and Golden Globe winner John Lithgow.
Directed by award-winning SA director Sophie Hyde – Aud’s mum – the production included shoots in Adelaide’s CBD and the South Australian Film Corporation’s Adelaide Studios in Glenside.
Aud is excited for the film to be recognised at Sundance. “Every role is an opportunity to share something meaningful. Acting lets me explore and express stories that matter,” they say.
Their acting portfolio also includes acclaimed projects like 52 Tuesdays, which explores themes of family, identity, and change, and F*%#ing Adelaide, where they played a character navigating complex personal relationships.
A future full of dreams
Aud’s optimism is contagious, even in the face of the challenges that come with being a young trans person in today’s world. For them, art is a tool not just for expression but also for change – and hope.
“When we give people the opportunity to express themselves, we build community and solidarity,” they said. “Art has the power to inform policy, shift perspectives and create a better future. That’s what keeps me going.”
If you’re inspired by Aud’s story and are working on your own dream arts project that needs a funding boost, find out about available Arts South Australia grants and eligibility criteria here.
