Pathways to Healing

As a designer and contributor to this powerful book, I had the privilege of listening deeply to the stories shared by ten courageous First Nations and non-Indigenous individuals—each of whom trained in We Al-li culturally informed, trauma-integrated healing practices and brought that knowledge home to create change in their communities.

These stories aren’t just words on a page—they're lived experiences of healing, strength, and transformation. Our design team at Liveworm Studios, Griffith University, were invited to sit with these narratives, to feel them, and to respond visually. What emerged was a series of co-created artworks that reflect the emotional depth, cultural richness, and profound insights woven through each story.

As designers, we weren’t just illustrating—we were interpreting. Each visual element was thoughtfully crafted to echo the metaphors, rhythms, and layers of change described by the storytellers. The goal was not to explain, but to evoke—to support the written word in a way that invites the reader to pause, reflect, and feel.

This book is more than an evaluation. It’s a space for deep listening, for witnessing, and for honouring the ongoing journey of healing from historical and intergenerational trauma. We hope the visual language we’ve created here adds another layer of connection and meaning to your reading experience—and supports your own journey as a change maker, healer, or ally.