As the golden sun dipped behind the trees on Jawoyn Country, a hush of anticipation swept through the crowd gathered for the Barunga Festival. Under an open sky, the inaugural Barunga's Next Top Model showcase unfolded — a celebration of culture, confidence, and community. At the centre of this historic moment stood Cassie Puruntatameri, a proud Tiwi woman, model, mentor, and fierce advocate for First Nations representation.

Cassie didn't come to Barunga to compete. She came to lead. Over the weekend, she guided a stunning group of First Nations people from across the Territory; walking with them through rehearsals, lifting spirits backstage, and reminding each person that their story matters and that showing up as yourself is the most powerful thing you can do.

"This weekend wasn't about me," Cassie told Style Up. "It was about our mob. About letting our people know they belong here; on the runway, in leadership, wherever they want to be. They just gotta see it first."

And they saw it. As the showcase began, the makeshift runway lit up; bold, brilliant, and full of Blak pride. Each model walked with purpose and power, their steps echoing stories older than any fashion trend. It was more than a show. It was a moment of cultural connection and celebration.

Then, as twilight softened the horizon, Cassie closed the show. Wearing a breathtaking garment created by artists from Jilamara Arts and the Pirlangimpi Women's Centre, she moved with quiet confidence and deep pride. Each thread spoke of home, of culture, of community. The crowd stood, many wiping away tears. This wasn't just about clothes; it was about honouring where we come from and who we walk for.

Reflecting on what it meant to return to Country and lead the Barunga Next Top Model's Unearthed program, Cassie said: "It's hard to put into words how much it means to me to have the opportunity to mentor fresh new talent from community. I feel very lucky & proud of my people and culture."

Cassie's own journey to the runway started far from the spotlight.

"I'm from a small remote community in the NT and moved to Melbourne at 19," she shared.

"Living in the city for nine years opened doors to opportunities like mainstream modelling work, training, travelling overseas and networking, but I had to leave home to access those spaces.

"What I've come to realise is that the industry often overlooks remote talent perhaps because they don't see us out there. There's a real lack of visibility and support, and for mob in remote areas, it's harder to get signed due to limited resources and access. That's why we need pathways that reach into remote communities, so our talent can be recognised without having to leave Country."

Her career has taken her from being scouted on a Melbourne tram to international runways, but one of her biggest lessons has stayed with her throughout: "The biggest lesson for me has been to know my worth and not settle for less."

When it comes to defining success, Cassie doesn't just think about headlines or major campaigns. For her, success is deeply personal and community-focused.

"Success to me is seeing our mob step into their power," she said.

"Watching their confidence grow; from feeling unsure at the start to letting their full personality shine, whether it's in front of the camera or walking the runway proud. When I see them owning their space, connecting to who they are, little things like that is what success looks like for me."

And this isn't just about young people. "My uncle, aged in his 60s, jumped on the runway and absolutely stole the crowd," she laughed. "That's what it's all about; celebrating who we are, at every age."

Looking forward, Cassie hopes to see broader change in the fashion world.

"I would love to see more support and representation for First Nations mob who live in remote and rural communities across the nation," she said, pointing out the need for lasting, community-connected opportunities in fashion, art, and media.

And for the next generation dreaming of walking a runway one day? Her message is clear and full of love: "Take up space. Be proud of who you are and where you come from. If you dream of it, chase it."

With Cassie leading the way, and incredible community creatives like Jilamara and Pirlangimpi bringing culture to every stitch, the runway ahead isn't just brighter, it's deeply connected.

And the best part? Our mob are already walking it; strong, proud, and full of fire.