THE DICE CIC REBRAND: A BOLD New CHAPTER BEGINS

On Saturday 5 July 2025, something powerful happened in East London. At Teesside University London, friends, collaborators, alumni, and supporters came together to celebrate six bold, transformative years of DICE CIC — and to welcome the future with the official launch of our rebrand: Dipped in Creative Engagement.

This wasn’t just a rebrand. It was a reintroduction. A love letter to our journey. And a bold, new beginning. DICE CIC was born from lived experience, community care, and a deep commitment to investing in young people. From the opening moments of the event, the passion and dedication of our founders Aaliyah and Kianu was palpable.

“We started this at 21 years old, with nothing but a bold vision and an even bolder commitment to our community,” Aaliyah, Director of Youth Engagement and Partnerships, shared during her speech. Today, we’re standing in a space built on that vision—a space led by young people, for young people.”

Kianu, DICE’s Director of Programmes, Events, and Strategic Development, added: “My greatest achievement has been building this social enterprise with my sister — even while navigating my own hurdles — to help young people thrive. Over the past six years, we’ve supported more than 700 young people to follow their dreams, develop their skills, and shape futures they can be proud of.”

“Our rebranding journey began 10 months ago, with the incredible support and commitment of Anya Bess, Head of Brand Development and Marketing, who started as a participant and Rob Sartain, our dedicated board member.”

After listening to powerful speeches from the two sisters and Rob, DICE’s Branding & Marketing board member, guests got the opportunity to explore the #DICEARCHIVE immersive exhibition, journeying through six years of impact, creativity, and growth. The visual storytelling brought to life just how far DICE has come — not just in projects and numbers, but in real lives changed.

The event also spotlighted DICE Crew Members and alumni through powerful panel conversations. From opening up about the barriers they’ve overcome with support from DICE, to sharing their hopes for DICE’s future, the honesty and pride showcased by each young person reminded us what this work is really about.

Kianu also said: “At DICE CIC, we are guided by a clear vision and mission. Our vision: A world where every young individual has the confidence, tools, and support to shape their own future. Our mission: To create transformative opportunities, support young individuals on their journeys, and break barriers through mentorship, creativity, and holistic support.”

Attendees were also left moved and inspired, with many sharing their heartfelt reflections on our journey on the Feedback Board at the end of the event. Veronica Martin OBE said: “I have the highest respect for DICE. Thank you for building future generations.” Tariq reflected: “DICE is creating a chance for young people to have a bright future and to realise their potential! DICE is for the people.”

And Faysal added: “DICE’s work is impactful and quite literally life-changing for the young people you support. I’m moved by the size of the impact you’ve made in such a short space of time.”

Ultimately, DICE CIC’s rebrand felt like the perfect opportunity to reintroduce the organisation in a way that truly reflects our purpose and energy. It wasn’t just about a new logo (though yes, the lion stayed — a symbol of strength and resilience, and an homage to the legacy of Aaliyah and Kianu’s beloved father). It was about finally stepping into a brand that feels like us.

Aaliyah said, “I often joke that the way I feel about DICE is like being in a football match. We’ve put so much time, energy, and passion into everything we do, there’s no coming off the pitch. We’ve come too far. We’re still playing, still pushing, still showing up.” “This journey has been about reflecting, not forgetting. And I truly believe the new DICE brand tells our story better than ever before.”

As the event wrapped with raffles, headshots, and celebration, it was clear: DICE is no longer just a youth-led organisation. We are a movement. A community. A family. A future. To everyone who helped us get here… thank you. And to everyone ready to walk the next part of this journey with us: Let’s build. Let’s thrive together.