Introducing The First Stories Collective
Blak & Bright and Magabala Books proudly announce the establishment of the First Stories Collective, funded by Creative Australia.
The First Stories Collective brings together two of the nation’s leading Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) in literature, Blak & Bright and Magabala Books. Together we unite almost 50 years of experience and leadership in the literary sector.
We have been appointed as Creative Australia’s Delivery Partner to provide vital services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers and illustrators. The First Stories Collective will build a stronger, more connected and more vibrant First Nations literature sector by delivering tailored support, hosting a biennial national gathering of First Nations writers, illustrators and publishing professionals, and creating further opportunities for networking and capacity building.
Blak & Bright Artistic Director & Chief Executive Officer, Bebe Oliver says:
"There’s such exceptional talent in the First Nations writing space in Australia, which we’ve seen time and time again through our festival since 2016. As we look to building a stronger future, we're proud to be leading the First Stories Collective to continue supporting our writers year-round. We're excited to partner with Magabala Books, who shares our vision and excitement for uplifting and sustaining Blak voices in the Australian literary and publishing sectors."
Through the First Stories Collective, Blak & Bright and Magabala Books will champion the work of First Nations writers, illustrators and publishing professionals across Australia and internationally. We will grow and sustain partnerships, provide sector-wide leadership and create pathways for Blak voices to be published and amplified. We will also provide trusted cultural advice and professional referrals for publishers, festivals and organisations seeking authentic engagement with First Nations voices.
Dr Lilly Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Magabala Books, says:
"As Australia’s leading First Nations publisher, we’re in a unique position to support Blak writers and publishing professionals. The First Stories Collective is an exciting way to continue our work in this space, supporting Blak & Bright and ensuring that the incredible work of our storytellers is seen, heard, and valued across the industry and beyond."
Blak & Bright and Magabala Books share the same purpose: to elevate, empower and sustain Blak voices. Our work is grounded in self-determination, cultural responsibility and respect. We do not act for our own gain, but to grow opportunities and platforms that benefit First Nations creators, their communities and their cultures.
The First Stories Collective will stand as a demonstration of First Nations leadership in the literary sector. We bring a generative and restorative approach, one that enriches the national literary landscape and fosters self-determination, while ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories are honoured and supported.
Research and development with First Nations arts workers and creatives is already underway to ensure the First Stories Collective is shaped directly by community priorities and cultural values.
For questions or queries regarding First Stories Collective please email Magabala lead publicist Chloe Mills at chloe.mills@magabala.com.