Indigenous Literacy Foundation wins world’s biggest children's literature award!

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) is the 2024 recipient of the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA) for children’s literature – a global award given annually to a person or organisation for their outstanding contribution to children’s and young adult literature.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) supports Community literacy aspiration through publishing and providing culturally relevant books and resources (photo credit Wayne Quilliam)

In a conversation with NITV Radio, ILF CEO, Ben Bowen extends heartfelt appreciation to the ALMA Jury and acknowledges the collective efforts of donors, supporters, volunteers, and Community partners in realizing the ILF’s vision.

“This is not possible without the support of our donors, supporters, volunteers, Ambassadors and Community partners that enable an organisation of around 30 staff to support literacy in over 400 remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.,” Ben Bowen said.

Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) is a Community-led organisation entrusted to support remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community literacy aspirations (photo credit Wayne Quilliam)

“This award is a direct acknowledgement to Communities we partner with, corporate partners and supporters, donors, Ambassadors, our Board and volunteers that have all played a critical role in building the ILF.”

The announcement was made in a live program from Stockholm and at the Bologna Children's Book Fair on Tuesday 9 April. The winner was announced from 245 candidates from 68 countries and regions.

"The prestigious ALMA award amplifies Indigenous voices on the world stage but also reaffirms the transformative power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides and nurturing inclusive societies." - Ben Bowen ILF CEO (photo credit Wayne Quilliam) Credit: Wayne Quilliam

With a prize of five million Swedish kronor (AUD $725,000) it is the largest award of its kind in the world.

The funds will be used to support the ongoing ambition of the ILF to support Community literacy aspiration through publishing and providing culturally relevant books and resources.