Country to Couture

In early August, the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair showcased their annual fashion parade, called ‘Country to Couture’. I was lucky enough to walk in the runway show and showcase Indigenous artists and designers in the fashion industry. It was the second time I participated in the runway show. Being selected for this show and walking alongside other Indigenous models has inspired me to take a step forward in the modelling and fashion industry. I travelled to Darwin for the parade and I felt so nervous before the show and yet so excited hearing and seeing the music pumping, the flashing lights of the photographers, stage lights and the the audience applauding each designer’s garments.

I want to thank the Friends of Yiramalay who supported my participation in this event, I feel very lucky to have people I have never met offer to help me make my dreams come true. Thank you also to Matt Watson and my teammates at the Studio School where I work as a Mentor; they support me and look out for me every day.

It was good to be in the Top End and showcase art in a different form. I hope my journey will inspire other Indigenous kids in the Kimberley to challenge themselves and step into making their dreams come true.

Kahlia Rogers (OW2016), Mentor