Despite only being 26 years old, Melbourne-based First Nations model, Javadd Anderson, has returned to Melbourne Fashion Week for the third time.
Walking in the Le Meridien Pool Deck Runway in addition to several other runways this week, Anderson has returned to the local fashion event to show his support for a series of First Nations designers and creatives.
Confident that this will be his best year yet, Anderson is looking forward to walking the shows, showing his support and further promoting his image as a significantly successful First Nations model.
"This will be my third fashion week and I'm feeling confident this will be my best year as I've grown more confident in my walk," said model Javadd Anderson.
"Walking in these shows gives myself a chance to promote my image and hopefully gain more work in the industry."
Aside from showing his support, Anderson is hoping that his continual participation in Melbourne Fashion Week inspires and influences other young Indigenous male models to give it a go and be open to every opportunity.
"There's not many of us Indigenous male models so I hope to inspire the younger generation to give it a go because I've had so many opportunities since starting," Anderson told Style Up.
"I think the industry is doing a good job in terms of representation and opportunity. I'd like to give a shout to Mob In Fashion who run a wonderful program that enables Mob to gain work in the industry."
Having already appeared in numerous campaigns and worked with several established Australian brands including Country Road, Anderson is on the trajectory of becoming one of Australia's most in-demand Indigenous male models.
"I've worked with a number of brands this year but my highlight would be working with Country Road doing their Winter Campaign," he said.
"Having friends and family see my images in shopping centres and online makes me feel like I'm accomplishing some of my goals I've set out as a model.
"I have been given a lot of opportunities to work as a model and I continue to grow my portfolio."
Although Anderson is no stranger to the city's stream of high-fashion runways and events, he does call Darwin his childhood home.
"Growing up I'd spend all my free time out on country and it's one thing I miss most about living back in Darwin" he said.
"My Indigenous heritage comes from my Dad's side, his father was born in Tennent Creek ( Warumungu ). I love working with Indigenous designers as it gives me a chance to give back to my community."
Openly sharing his work and interest across his social media platforms, Anderson's popularity and workload have only increased.
With future plans to hopefully travel overseas and work, Anderson is determined to push his career further whilst also assisting other young First Nations models to enter and succeed within the industry.
"I'm really hoping to head overseas at some point to try on the international stage. It's been a goal of mine since I started. I'd also like to try to get involved with helping other young First Nations Models get into the industry," he said.
As a successful young model and proud Indigenous man, Anderson is striving to demand change, create opportunities and inspire younger generations.
Javadd Anderson is represented by Pride Models, People Agency and Chic Management.
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