Branding Tips for First Nations Creators
- Natalie Williams (Gamilaraay)
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
Branding is more than just a logo or a colour palette — it’s the story people remember about you when you’re not in the room. For First Nations creators, branding can be a powerful way to honour culture, share identity, and build a business with purpose and pride.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to refresh your visual presence, here are some key branding tips that can help you create something strong, authentic and lasting.
1. Start with Your Story
Your brand begins with your story — who you are, where you’re from, and why you do what you do. This is your grounding. It sets your business apart and gives your audience something real to connect with.
🖤 Think about:
What values guide your work?
What’s your vision for your community, your family, or yourself?
What makes your journey unique?
Tip: Write it down as a “Brand Story” and use it to guide everything — from your website copy to your social media posts.
2. Be Clear About Your Message
Clarity builds connection. The clearer you are about what you offer and who it’s for, the easier it is for people to support you.
🎯 Ask yourself:
What problem do I solve?
Who do I help?
What’s the transformation I offer?
Example: “I help Aboriginal women reconnect to culture through handmade jewellery.”That’s a powerful brand message — clear, specific, and culturally rich.
3. Choose Visuals That Feel True to You
Your colours, fonts, and logo should reflect who you are. Whether that means earthy tones, strong patterns, or bold typography, your visual identity should feel like an extension of your voice.
🎨 Things to consider:
Colours that connect to Country or community
Symbols or styles that reflect your cultural roots
A logo that’s simple but meaningful
Tip: Don’t overcomplicate. Strong branding can be minimal but deeply symbolic.
4. Keep It Consistent
Consistency builds trust. When your branding looks and feels the same across your website, social media, packaging, and emails — people start to recognise and remember you.
🧾 Make sure you:
Use the same logo and colours everywhere
Stick to your tone of voice (warm, bold, empowering, etc.)
Show up regularly with your message
Tip: Create a simple brand style guide so everything stays aligned.
5. Honour Cultural Protocols
Branding should never come at the cost of cultural respect. Always make sure you have permission to use certain language, artwork, stories or symbols — especially when they come from specific mobs or areas.
🤝 Ways to stay respectful:
Work with Aboriginal designers or artists when possible
Acknowledge Country and cultural lineage in your work
Ask Elders or knowledge holders when unsure
Your brand can be strong and stylish and uphold cultural integrity. That’s the power of culturally safe design.
6. Build a Brand That Can Grow With You
Think long-term. Your brand isn’t just for right now — it’s a foundation for what’s to come. Choose elements and messaging that will grow with your business and your purpose.
🌿 Ask yourself:
Will this logo still make sense in 5 years?
Does my brand allow space for growth, collaboration or change?
Final Thoughts
As First Nations creators, we hold powerful stories, visions, and gifts. Your brand is a way to bring those to life — not just to sell, but to inspire, connect, and lead.
If you're ready to build or refresh your brand, I offer culturally safe support through STORI.RISE. Together, we can create a brand that feels true, powerful, and ready to rise.
📅 Book a free branding consult via www.stroririse.com.au
🌐 Explore more resources and prebuilt website templates starting from $200.
Your story deserves to be seen. Your business deserves to thrive.
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