Kuku Yalanji and Kuku Thaypan filmmaker Alden Lyall explores the transformative journey of Benita Williams in his film, Empowering Dreams, Nurturing Talent.

The short film, part of the ABC's Authentic NQ series, showcases the story of a Kuku Yalanji woman reshaping the modelling industry in Far North Queensland through mentorship and empowerment.

Mr Lyall said Indigenous fashion has recently seen significant growth but is still underrepresented in mainstream media.

"I filmed a few Indigenous fashion shoots around Queensland," he said.

"I thought it wasn't getting showcased—it was, but not as much as it could be—so I thought this would make a great story."

Ms Williams' journey stood out to Lyall as one of transformation and uniqueness.

"She was successful yet grounded, down-to-earth, and professional," he said.

"Her story was unique—this young lady was just shopping for jewellery, was approached, and eventually became a model by taking a chance."

Through her work, Ms Williams acts as both a mentor and a guardian for young Indigenous women in the modelling industry.

"Her experience and kindness to her models create real opportunities and lift them to the next level," Mr Lyall said.

"She guides them as a guardian and a friend to help them in their journey."

Mr Lyall reflected on the challenges during production, including natural disasters that disrupted filming in the Cairns region.

"There was a cyclone just before filming, and flood damage halted production," he said.

Despite this, Mr Lyall was determined to connect Ms Williams' story to her cultural roots, filming in the rainforest to showcase her journey from an individual to a leader in her field.

"Benita is now a strong, powerful, successful woman, but she sees a lot of herself in these models. She's been in their shoes—or clothes on that runway," Mr Lyall said.

The film also highlights the broader themes of empowerment and diversity that Ms Williams brings to her work.

"She gives them real opportunities to learn, adapt, be brave, confident, and shine," Mr Lyall said.

"These young ladies come from all walks of life, and you can see the pride in them and in themselves as they give modelling a good go."

Mr Lyall hopes the film will contribute to ongoing conversations about representation in the fashion industry.

"I hope this story shows that it is possible for young and old ladies to be models in the fashion industry," he said.

"To break shyness, take it on, and be successful and powerful, representing your people and community, being creative, having fun, and being confident."

Empowering Dreams, Nurturing Talent offers an inspiring glimpse into the intersection of fashion, culture, and community in Far North Queensland.