On 10th October 2022 I started an 8-week ‘Fashion Studio’ course at the International Fashion Academy in Paris. This course was the culmination of 6 previous years of trying to build a social enterprise that supports Indigenous artists, and women’s projects in our community. I am forever grateful for the opportunity that the Churchill Fellowship provided. Although it may not seem like an important area of study, there will be an impact on the Indigenous community across Australia.
Prior to commencing the course, I had very little knowledge of the actual skills you needed to be a fashion designer, I previously acted as a project manager in this space, and had contracted out various parts of the design, sampling, and making process to local professionals – which was taking a huge bite out of funds that could be returned to the community. It was also not helping the development of skills in the local Aboriginal community. My previous background had been in the mining industry.
The course gave me the skills to design, illustrate, technical draw, pattern make and finally sew clothing items. Although it is unlikely that I will need to use all those skills all the time, I now understand what they are and how to apply them. It will also give me the confidence to encourage others in this industry and lead the charge in changing the narrative of our culture.
Closing the Gap Initiatives have long failed to do what they were intended to do, this grassroots approach is the only way we will make change in my community. I have made connections with people who love our artwork and fashion and do so with no bias or agenda. Which is an enlightening experience.
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