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National Reconciliation Week: Reflecting on Our Shared Histories, Building a More Reconciled Future

Honouring the power of storytelling with the Indigenous Literacy Foundation

Since 2001, Australia has observed National Reconciliation Week (NRW) annually from 27 May to 3 June. These dates recognise the 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision, both pivotal events on the path to reconciliation.

NRW is a time for all Australians to unite, reflect on shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and explore ways to advance reconciliation.

The 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, emphasises the importance of connecting Australia’s past, present, and future. It calls on us all to learn from the past, engage in open conversations, and step forward together in solidarity.

This year, we’re proud to partner with the inspiring Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) to honour the role storytelling plays in preserving culture, fostering understanding, and creating a brighter future.

As a 2024 ALMA Laureate, and one of the first of four recipients of the Lendlease Workplaces with Impact Grant, the ILF empowers remote First Nations Communities by providing culturally relevant books, resources, and programs. Their work fosters a love of literacy and preserves cultural heritage by enabling Communities to share their stories in their own languages.

The ILF recently launched a two-year Talent Pathways program, providing First Nations youth with hands-on training in publishing and the creative arts. This initiative helps aspiring writers, graphic designers, and publishers build skills and sustainable careers — without having to leave their Country, their families, or their culture behind.

A Shared Commitment to Impact
Through the Workplaces with Impact Grant, International Towers is honoured to support ILF’s mission to uplift First Nations voices and preserve cultural heritage through literacy.
Alongside ILF, we proudly partner with:

  • Two Good Co.
  • Good Shepherd
  • Fitted for Work
  • Hotel Etico

Together, these organisations are opening doors to inclusive, purpose-driven opportunities in education, employment, and wellbeing.

Hear from Zoe Cassim, proud Widjabul/Wia-bul woman and Head of Programs at ILF, in the video below to discover how this initiative is changing lives from the ground up.

 

From Monday, 26 May — Friday, 6 June, we invite you to:

  • Storytelling Circle Pop-Up Library
    Visit our lobby to experience a curated selection of ILF-published books in our temporary, recyclable bookshelf installation. These titles—many written by First Nations authors—invite visitors to sit, read, and reflect on the significance of cultural storytelling and connection.
  • Connection Pins
    Pick up a meaningful Connection Pin, featuring original artwork by Gudanji/Wakaja artist Ryhia Dank. Wearing one is a simple yet powerful act of solidarity, acknowledging Country and supporting the path toward reconciliation.
  • STRYDE4 Corporate Challenge Walk
    We’re inviting our tenant partners to join the STRYDE4 Corporate Challenge Walk—an 11km experience that brings city workers together with ILF advocates. It’s more than a walk: it’s an opportunity for shared learning, connection, and meaningful conversation in support of reconciliation.
  • Winya Furniture
    Enjoy the Storytelling Circle pop-up library in comfort, thanks to furniture thoughtfully provided by Winya—a majority Indigenous-owned company creating sustainable, culturally driven designs that support First Nations employment and community impact.

The beautiful NRW artwork you'll see throughout the building and online, is by Ryhia Dank, a Gudanji and Wakaja woman, First Nations Australian artist, and ILF Ambassador, who grew up in a remote Northern Territory community.

Walking Together Toward Reconciliation
National Reconciliation Week challenges us to deepen our understanding, challenge long-held assumptions, and play an active role in shaping a more united future. Through our ongoing partnership with ILF and our broader commitment to social impact, International Towers is proud to help foster spaces where inclusion, culture, and meaningful dialogue can thrive.