The Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation's Indigenous Fashion Projects program (IFP) has unveiled the IFP Pathways Program 2025-2027 cohort; introducing six exciting First Nations designers and their diverse labels.
From the red deserts of central Australia to the vast coastlines of the Kimberley, these designers bring bold creativity, deep cultural storytelling, and a future-focused approach to design, continuing IFP's mission to empower and elevate First Nations voices within the fashion industry.
Pathways Program welcomes its first Art Centre participant with the talented Yarrenyty Arltere Artists from Mparntwe. Renowned for their vibrant textiles and soft sculptures, the collective's expansion into fashion marks an exciting crossover between visual art and design, transforming community storytelling into wearable art that embodies connection, collaboration, and culture in motion.
The Pathways Program is a national professional development initiative supporting First Nations fashion designers to build sustainable, culturally grounded careers. It nurtures creative and commercial capability while fostering visibility, industry access, and long-term leadership across the Australian fashion landscape.
The program's strength lies in its community of practice and partnership model, connecting designers, mentors, and industry leaders through collaboration and shared learning. A First Nations-led model, grounded in respect, reciprocity, and real-world application, the program is embedding cultural integrity and advancing long-term sector impact.
In a program first, the cohort welcomes Yarrenyty Arltere Artists, an art centre collective from Mparntwe known for their vibrant textiles and soft sculptures. Their move into fashion marks a striking crossover between art and design, transforming community storytelling into wearable art.
Other participating designers include Jaru Girl Designs (East Kimberley, WA), LuluJaru (Kimberly, WA), Clair Helen (Tiwi Islands), Lillardia Briggs-Houston (NSW), and Atyene by Rachel Perkins (NT).
"We're really excited to announce our next cohort of Designers," said Indigenous Fashion Projects manager, Michelle Maynard.
"It's a powerhouse of talent, strength and cultural grounding, continuing our efforts toward building sustainable, self-determined futures."
The program's alumni include acclaimed Indigenous-led brands Maara Collective, Ngali, Liandra Swim, Miimi & Jiinda, Joseph & James, and Gammin Threads, who continue to influence both national and international runways.
Together, IFP and its partners are building a thriving Indigenous fashion sector that celebrates creativity, community and culture. The newly announced cohort ensures the stories, skills and spirit of First Nations designers continue to inspire generations to come.
IFP also notably hosts the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (aka NIFA), and the Country to Couture runway, marking the largest annual showcase of Indigenous fashion in Australia.
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