The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) has unveiled a new brand identity, including a refreshed logo and slogan, to celebrate First Nations storytelling and reflect its commitment to Community-led values.

The rebrand was developed in partnership with First Nations creative agency Cause/Affect, led by Waanyi and Kalkadoon woman Keisha Leon, following extensive consultation with ILF staff, board members, and remote communities.

"The creative direction was driven by deep listening and a shared love for storytelling," Ms Leon said.

"From a cultural perspective, this work is about preserving knowledge and keeping storytelling and language alive."

A new slogan — Be Part of the Story — has been introduced to sit alongside ILF's long-standing tagline, Reading Opens Doors. The phrase invites supporters, communities, and partners to engage with ILF's mission as storytellers, fundraisers, advocates, and collaborators in First Languages literacy.

Three First Nations artists — Mangarrayi artist Wanirr Keighran, Rose (Deborah Archie), and Ruby (Rusinya Brooks) — were central to the visual transformation. All three have engaged with ILF through its Community Publishing and Talent Pathways programs.

"I'm happy to be part of ILF's rebrand, it's an exciting opportunity," said Wanirr, whose artwork, influenced by her deep connection to Country, has been adapted for new ILF shirts.

Rose, a 23-year-old artist from Bulla in the Northern Territory, said she was proud to be involved. Her artwork features in the first wave of ILF merchandise and will appear across other brand materials in the coming months.

"I want to make my own art and stories and share it with the world," she said.

Ruby, 21, from Milikapiti on Melville Island, has grown up participating in ILF's programs and is now part of the inaugural Talent Pathways cohort. Reflecting on her experience, she said: "It's not about the destination, but the journey."

Ms Leon worked closely with ILF graphic designer Justine Taylor to adapt the brand across a wide range of materials — including program content, merchandise, and collateral — ensuring accessibility and cohesion.

"As the Indigenous Literacy Foundation has evolved and progressed in its reach and structure, so has the need for visual communication and presence of the brand," Ms Taylor said.

"Additionally, our campaigns and programs have developed and each of these avenues require their own voice within the overarching brand. The new colour palette allows for this."

Since its founding 21 years ago, the ILF has grown into a national organisation working with more than 500 remote Indigenous communities. Through programs such as Book Supply, Book Buzz, Community Publishing, Create and Pamela Lofts Bequest, ILF provides books, literacy resources, and culturally relevant publishing opportunities.

ILF Chief Executive Ben Bowen said the rebrand reflects the growing scope and identity of the organisation.

"We needed the new brand to showcase the rich diversity and vibrant cultures of the Communities we engage with, and to create a visual identity that truly speaks to those we serve," he said.

"It represents and incorporates the Communities and individuals who are at the heart of the work we are so proud to do."

Marketing Manager Emma Toomey, a Wiradjuri/Wongaibon woman, said the rebrand marked "an incredible milestone" that had been years in the making.

"It's the result of thoughtful planning, collaboration, and a shared vision, and we couldn't be more proud of what we've achieved. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of this journey, from the early stages of creation to the exciting rollout," she said.

"We invite you to celebrate with us—explore our refreshed website, experience our new look, and most importantly, Be Part of the Story."