Noting the Global Indigenous Runway to have been her first proper modelling experience, First Nations model Nardia Blackhall has had a full circle moment this week after returning to the Global Indigenous Runway at PayPal's 2024 Melbourne Fashion Festival.

Returning to Melbourne Fashion Festival for the second time in her career, the 20-year-old from Boonah (a small town about an hour outside of Brisbane, ) is proving that while age may come with experience, today's younger generation of models can be as equally talented, driven and determined.

"Global Indigenous Runway was my first proper experience of a runway and taught me so much about the industry and helped me develop my skills," she said.

"I was always intrigued by modelling, but my journey really started when I saw a photoshoot casting and decided to put myself out there and give it a go. There have been so many highlights."

Although this was the second time Blackhall, walked in the infamous Global Indigenous Runway, this year she is looking forward to attending more MFF events and further exploring Melbourne.

"This is my second-year walking in an MFF event, however last year I didn't get the chance to go to any events. This time around I am looking forward to attending more shows including the Mob In Fashion Runway. After my runway, I'll be fully immersing myself in the rest of MFF," Blackhall told Style Up.

"I've got the opportunity to walk in the Global Indigenous Runway for a second time. I'm thankful to Tina Waru as she has created this amazing runway for First Nations Indigenous people. It allows both the alumni models in the program and models with no experience to learn the industry and develop their skills. The models are taken through a week-long training, by the end of the training Tina has everyone walking like they have been doing runways for years.

"Many people underestimate the effort behind modelling, assuming it's easy. In reality, runway shows demand intense dedication, long hours, and rigorous preparation."

Having been in the industry for several years now, the young model is very familiar with the work required to reach success and stay there. Despite being only in her twenties, Blackhall shares that she has already had numerous career highlights.

"The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair was empowering and gave me the opportunity to learn and connect with my culture, I love seeing the representation of our peoples history and culture through modelling and fashion," she said.

"And of course, signing with Bella Management (Bella management is an inclusive agency that is constantly challenging the norm and breaking down barriers in the industry ) was massive for me.

"For two years I had been turned away multiple times for not fitting the standards of modelling."

That said, Blackhall - like more and more models in the fashion industry- has noticed a positive shift towards greater cultural diversity and opportunity for First Nations creatives.

"I think the fashion industry is gradually becoming more inclusive, and there is a shift where diversity is more appreciated. There are certainly more opportunities for Indigenous models and designers to showcase their unique perspectives and talents as Indigenous creators but also challenge the traditional beauty standards and narratives within the fashion world," she said.

"It's essential for the industry to further foster meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities, provide platforms for their voices to be heard, and support Indigenous-led initiatives and businesses."

While no grand plans or projects are on the cards right now, Blackhall said she is excited to go with the flow and see what the future holds.

"I'm currently working in a flexible full-time position that also allows me to focus on modelling. The last few months have been a bit of a roller coaster. I recently entered into the Bella Management x DB cosmetic unsigned model search and ended up being 1 of the 8 winners out of hundreds of people," she said.

"This has lead to me signing with my agency, Bella Management. As of now, I have nothing planned, but I'm excited to see what the future holds with Bella Management."

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