Proud Walmajarri and Gooniyandi designer, Brodie George, has made a splash at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) on the Flying Solo Runway.

Her swimwear brand, Jalayimiya Swim, debuted during the event's Show #1 on Monday, one of more than 20 clothing, footwear and accessory labels featured in the hour-long runway.

Jalayimiya Swim was conceived two years ago when George closed her eyebrow salon, creating the opportunity to finally pursue a long-held dream.

"It was an idea that I had 12 years ago that I didn't quite have the resources to do," George said.

With a newfound determination and the right timing, George started the brand with a print-on-demand model to gauge interest.

The response exceeded her expectations, enabling her to transition from a preliminary model to designing full collections with creative control.

The brand's ethos extends beyond swimwear, with George telling Style Up, "it's not just a swimwear brand; it's a community feel".

"Jalayimiya Swim is deeply committed to women's empowerment, body positivity and fostering a supportive community," she said.

Seamlessly weaving these values into every design and aspect of the brand, this commitment is reflected in the latest collection, Ngapa —named after the Walmajarri word for water.

The collection features reversible prints that represent different states of water, inspired by the Fitzroy River.

One side of the swimwear showcases a clean, blue pattern symbolising fresh waters, while the reverse side portrays a pink pattern, representing the murkiness during floods.

Bringing Indigenous culture to the forefront of New York Fashion Week was an opportunity that allowed George to share her heritage with a global audience.

"I was really excited to share Aboriginal culture with people from all different backgrounds behind the scenes. Educating them about the deep meanings behind our art, the symbolism of the woven earrings and teach them about who we are. I could tell that they really appreciated it, especially the models," George said.

With different styles and designs tailored to various body types, the collection aims to celebrate and cater to its diverse customer base.

Collaborating with other First Nations artists was an important aspect of the trip, George chose to include earrings made by Emma Janes Weaving that beautifully complimented the bold and bright swimwear.

"I think it's really important because if one of us wins, we all win. And it's great that we all lift each other up. And that's what the community is about," she said.

The journey to NYFW began in early 2024 when George applied to participate in Flying Solo, with the process involving extensive back-and-forth communication with the team.

"It's been a lot of work in the lead-up, probably more work than I anticipated but it's going to be well worth it," she said.

The showcase at Flying Solo represents a substantial step forward for Jalayimiya Swim, enhancing the brand's credibility and visibility on an international stage.

Through the showcase, George hopes to achieve greater exposure and build a larger, more engaged audience.

For those contemplating a similar path, George's advice is clear.

"You have to be deliriously confident… and almost obsess over it," she said.

Looking beyond NYFW, George aims to strengthen the brand by deepening its community ties and cultural connections.

She plans to highlight Jalayimiya Swim's eco-conscious values and ethos by incorporating cultural elements into photoshoots and building on these foundations.

With talent running in her blood, George is also excited about experiencing New York and catching up with her model cousin, Billie Jean Hamlet, who was able to share George's special milestone.

"I'm so happy to be here. It means the world to me. I'm so excited to see her vision come to life, it's been years in the making," Hamlet told Style Up.

As Jalayimiya Swim makes its mark at NYFW, George's vision of merging cultural heritage with contemporary fashion continues to inspire and make waves across the global stage.

Brodie's NYFW journey was proudly supported by Marra Worra Worra, Leedal Pty Ltd, Paspaley and National Indigenous Times.