Empower with literacy

At ALNF, we believe that literacy transcends the ability to read and write. Our innovative Subtext Program merges the arts with oral and written literacy approaches to provide a powerful means for young people from First Nations, refugee, migrant, and other marginalised backgrounds to explore new, creative ways to express their experiences and ideas, tell their own stories, and find their voices.

During a recent iteration of the program, students across a number of schools in Far West NSW were provided with an opportunity to harness the creative power of storytelling, language and music in a week-long intensive workshop.

Working together with ALNF Ambassador and Subtext Mentor, Tasman Keith, alongside community members and educators from the region, participating students learned Barkindji Language and collaborated to write a song about coming together from all over the Far West. 

This collaborative artistic process facilitated conversations, communication skills, language development, reflective practice, and literacy, and helped the students make new connections – impacting positively on their sense of belonging and confidence.

Forming “The Subtext”, a 45-piece youth choir, the students were then given the unique opportunity to perform the song live at the Mundi Mundi Bash with ALNF Ambassador and legendary singer-songwriter Shane Howard. The budding singer-songwriters also delivered a powerful rendition of the iconic Goanna hit "Solid Rock," with a Barkindji Language translation, in one of the most memorable moments of the festival. 

Literacy helps kids dream big. Thank you for standing with us on our mission to make it a reality for every Australian child.