Created to empower and support Indigenous people and communities, the Kirrikin Foundation has long striven to create opportunities, preserve cultural heritage, and foster sustainable development.

This year, the Kirrikin Foundation engaged in a unique mentoring initiative in Newman WA, at the annual Outback Fortescue Festival.

The initiative saw the Kirrikin Foundation lead and provide 27 local children with the opportunity to walk the runway during the annual Outback Fortescue Festival.

Supported locally by the YMCA and the Stars Foundation - along with Kirrikin Foundation mentor Shannon McGuire - the project involved an all-Indigenous team, including HMUA Shauna Narrier, popular photographer Michael Torres, and talented artist Buffie Punch.

"We facilitated an engaging workshop at the YMCA, where local boys and girls aged 8-18 learned about runway techniques and empowerment activities before taking to the stage. The following day, they showcased their talents in front of a packed crowd, celebrating their achievements in an atmosphere of community pride," The Kirrkin Team said.

"The initiative highlights the significance of offering local opportunities for young people to explore something creative and different. By involving kids in such an event, it allows them to break away from the ordinary, fostering both self-expression and cultural pride. The involvement of Indigenous professionals not only ensures the kids see themselves represented but also reinforces the importance of representation in the fashion industry and across the wider community."

Having taken place on the Outback Fortescue Festival at the Capricorn Oval, last Saturday and Sunday, this newly established festival was a consolidation of the Shire of East Pilbara Outback Fusion Festival and the Lions Club of Newman Fortescue Festival.

"The collaboration of these two events will create a memorable experience for our community and will become one of the most anticipated events in the Pilbara. These historic events are what community is all about. The weekend will be a celebration of culture, fun and entertainment," chief executive Steven Harding said before the event.

As The Kirrikin Foundation continues to aspire to create a cultural and economic impact by championing the growth of Indigenous creative enterprises, emerging and established Indigenous creatives will continue to be provided with both opportunities and support.

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