Blak & Bright Unveils Dynamic New Leadership
Cheryl Leavy will join Blak & Bright as General Manager.
Phoebe Grainer will join the team as Program Coordinator.
Blak & Bright, Australia’s premier organisation celebrating First Nations writing and storytelling, is thrilled to announce the appointment of two dynamic new leaders, marking a bold new era for the organisation.
Renowned advocate Cheryl Leavy joins as General Manager, bringing an extraordinary depth of experience in First Nations policy, arts and cultural reform. A powerful force for change, Cheryl has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the historic return of the Daintree and Boodjamulla National Parks to Aboriginal ownership. As an award-winning writer and former Deputy Chair of the Institute of Modern Art, Cheryl’s vision and leadership will be invaluable in helping to lead Blak & Bright into the future.
“I am thrilled to be joining the leadership team at Blak & Bright at such a pivotal point in its journey. While so many have made extraordinary contributions, there is still much work to be done showcasing Blak literary excellence to Australia and the world. We are just that deadly! I couldn’t be more motivated to work with Bebe, the team, and the likeminded mob and organisations to showcase Blak writers at all stages of their careers.” - Cheryl Leavy, General Manager
Joining Cheryl is Phoebe Grainer, who steps into the role of Program Coordinator. A proud Kuku Djungan, Muluridji, Wakaman, Tagalaka, Kunjen, Warrgamay and Yindinji woman, Phoebe is a force in the creative industries, with experience as a writer, performer and producer. She has worked with leading organisations such as Sweatshop Literacy Movement and ILBIJERRI Theatre Company, and her critically acclaimed play Emu In The Sun premiered with Melbourne Theatre Company. Her upcoming work Jalbu Meri is set to debut in 2025, further cementing her role as a leading voice in First Nations storytelling.
“I am honoured and proud to join Blak & Bright as the Program Coordinator. This is a meaningful chance to help amplify First Nations voices and celebrate our stories. I’m excited for the journey ahead, working alongside incredible storytellers to bring this vision to life.” - Phoebe Grainer, Program Coordinator
With Artistic Director & CEO Bebe Oliver leading the charge, Blak & Bright is poised to deliver an electrifying 2025 program, one that reclaims space, defies expectations and ignites conversation.
“Blak & Bright is a cultural reckoning and an unstoppable force reshaping the literary landscape of this country. With the appointment of Cheryl and Phoebe, we’re strengthening our vision and expanding our impact. Our bold program of events will showcase Blak writers, their stories and their truths as unapologetic, powerful and necessary. We’re not seeking permission, we’re claiming our space, amplifying our voices and making sure the world is listening.”
- Bebe Oliver, Artistic Director & CEO