From a shortlist of 36 finalists, the 2024 winners have been recognised across seven categories at the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA).
The award ceremony took place in the Top End, during the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) Foundation’s week of cultural events.
Presented by Indigenous Fashion Projects (IFP) and supported by the Northern Territory Government through Northern Territory Major Events Company, the 36 shortlisted nominees showcased the best of First Nations design, unveiling both contemporary and traditional techniques and stories through textiles and fashion.
The judges, Yatu Widders-Hunt, Elaine George, Lisa Waup and Nimmi Premaratne had the difficult task of assessing the nominations from an incredible line up.
These award winners were selected in recognition of their creativity, talent and contribution to the industry. The seven worthy award recipients will now gain access to invaluable industry exposure and partnerships, mentoring opportunities, and financial support, which will be pivotal in the development of their artistic practice and business journeys.
"It’s been an incredible evening celebrating our NIFA winners and nominees," said Indigenous Fashion Projects Manager Michelle Maynard.
"This talented group continues to inspire us, telling their stories and their histories of a deep connection to Country through beautiful designs."
"This year we added the Cecilia Cubillo Young Achiever Award which recognises an outstanding young person between the ages of 15-25 years, who is excelling in one or more of the areas of fashion, textile design, modelling, styling, wearable art, adornment and jewellery," said Maynard.
Yawaru Woman, Kahlia Rogers, was announced the debut winner of this award.
"I feel incredibly humbled and grateful to have the honour of receiving this amazing award for the first time," said Rogers.
"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."
Winners spanned a range of categories from wearable art, textile design and traditional adornment, though to business achievement and community collaboration, with Simone Arnol, named winner of the prestigious Fashion Designer award which is sponsored by Country Road.
"Simone's creativity and artistry truly stand out. Her collection honours traditional techniques passed down through generations while embracing modernity," said Country Road Head of Design for Womenswear, Nimmi Premaratne.
"With a design handwriting that is truly her own, Simone’s collections showcase her exceptional skill and dedication to quality, while celebrating her connection to Country and distinct creative style."
The 2024 NIFA winners and nominees will all have the opportunity to tour their designs at two QIC centres including Canberra Centre (ACT), and Eastland (VIC), supported by QIC. Justin Welfare, QIC’s First Nations Affairs Lead commented on the partnership.
Indigenous Fashion Projects’ NIFA Winners 2024:
Textile Design Award, Supported by RMIT
Winner: Jay Jurrupula Rostron, Bábbarra Women's Centre, Location: Maningrida, Northern Territory
Traditional Adornment Award, Supported by Helen Kaminski:
Winner: Philomena Yeatman, Yarrabah Arts & Cultural Precinct - Location: Yarrabah, Queensland
Wearable Art Award, Supported by Eastland:
Winner: Lillardia Briggs-Houston, Location: Albury/Narrandera, New South Wales
Fashion Designer Award, Supported by Country Road:
Winner: Simone Arnol, Location: Queensland
Cecilia Cubillo Young Achiever Award, Supported by Franchesca Cubillo:
Winner: Kahlia Rogers, Location: Broome/Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia
Community Collaboration Award, Supported by Canberra Centre:
Winner: Melissa Greenwood, Miimi & Jiinda x Gilat Shani, Unreal Fur - Location: Nambucca Heads, New South Wales and Melbourne, Victoria
Principal Media Partner NITV (National Indigenous Television) will broadcast the NIFA nationally, on Saturday, August 17th at 7.30pm.
Following this, the event will join previous years’ broadcasts on SBS On Demand, available to stream for free.
Image credit: Supplied/Dylan Buckee/Marley Morgan/Maya Johnson
