The National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFAs) have returned to beautiful Larrakia Country for another year.
The NIFAs showcase leading and emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander designers, artists and creatives.
From a shortlist of 36 finalists, seven winners have been announced, who will have the opportunity to gain access to industry, partnerships, mentoring and financial support.
Textile Design Award: Jay Jurrupula Rostron
A Kune, Dalabon and Rembarrngga woman from the Barappa clan, Jay Jurrupula Rostron grew up in Korlobidahdah outstation, two hours from Maningrida.
At 41 years old, she's proud to have won her first award, recognising her immense talent.
Ms Rostron's father taught her how to paint and make rock art and her mother taught her how to weave.
She's now an artist at Bábbarra Women's Centre, where she creates all of her designs and loves catching up with the other women.
"Sometimes we make tea and we make jokes ... We're working together and laughing and having fun," she said.
Jay Jurrupula Rostron's father taught her to paint.
"I'm so happy now. I'm really proud," she smiled.
Traditional Adornment Award: Philomena Yeatman
Gunggandji woman Philomena Yeatman won the Traditional Adornment Award.
A renowned weaver at Yarrabah Arts and Cultural Precinct, Ms Yeatman was taught how to weave by her grandmother.
"I spent most of my growing up with my grandmother and my grandfather because my mum was sick," she said.
Philomena Yeatman accepting a fashion award in 2022. Source: Supplied
"It's good to keep culture alive."
For Ms Yeatman, her win was an emotional achievement.
"I'm so happy and proud ... for my grandmother after all these things that she taught me," she said, with tears of pride.
"She was always there when I was doing my weaving.
"I know she's there, I feel it. My grandmother will always be in my heart."
Wearable Art Award: Lillardia Briggs-Houston
Wiradjuri Yorta Yorta Gangalu artist and fashion designer Lillardia Briggs-Houston took home the Wearable Art Award.
Ms Briggs-Houston wanted to create clothing that told a story and represented her and her people.
Designer Lillardia Briggs-Houston was awarded the Wearable Art Award. Source: Phoebe Blogg
"I would always rotate through styles and I never found something that felt like me. Now the clothes I create are for women like me," she said.
Community Collaboration Award: Melissa Greenwood, Miimi & Jiinda x Gilat Shani, Unreal Fur
The Community Collaboration Award went to Gumbaynggirr Dunghutti Bundjalung woman Melissa Greenwood, half of Miimi & Jiinda.
Melissa Greenwood (left) and Lauren Jarrett, the founders of Miimi & Jiinda. Source: Supplied
Fashion Designer Award: Simone Arnol
Gunggandji Yarrabah artist and designer Simone Arnol says that her designs connect mob to their ancestors.
"It's important to have the stories in the designs because it weaves our ancestors in to the now," she said.
Simone Arnol said it was a privilege to receive the award. Credit: National Indigenous Fashion Awards
"I can't even talk. My heart is singing.
"To be able to proudly say that I've won that award, I just feel so honoured and humbled," she said.
Young Achiever Award: Kahlia Rogers
Kahlia Rogers' journey started when she walked in Darwin Art Fair's Country to Couture runway in 2020. That opportunity was a catalyst for her modelling career, leading her to Paris Fashion Week.
The young Walmajarri, Gooniyandi, Bunuba and Martu woman from Wangkatjungka won the Young Achiever Award.
Kahlia Rogers took France by storm, walking at Paris Fashion Week.
"I have felt so inspired by all the amazing artists and designers from across Australia tonight and I feel proud to represent my family and community," she said.
Business Achievement Award: Ngali, Denni Francisco
Wiradjuri woman Denni Francisco from Ngali won the Business Achievement Award.
"I see [fashion] as a powerful medium for creating social change.
"Thank you ... that's fantastic. I don't know what to say but I'm incredibly grateful."
A model wears a work by Denni Francisco for Ngali. Source: Getty / Getty Images
