melbourne fashion week

From juggling careers to walking the catwalk, StyleUp catches up with Chenile Chandler

Phoebe Blogg - October 27, 2024

Chenile Chandler on the ganbu marra runway. (Image: Liana Hardy)

First Nations model, singer, actor and sportwoman Chenile Chandler is doing it all.

Style Up spoke to Chandler during her participation at Melbourne Fashion Week (MFW).

"I'm a proud Wurundjeri-Woiwurrung woman based in Naarm. I'm a singer, actor and model and play netball. I started modelling as a child model and only recently started again as an adult," Chandler she said.

"Last year was my first year walking in MFW with the ganbu marra show at the LUME. It's safe to say that show made me want to come back again."

*Chenile Chandler on the ganbu marra runway. (Image: Liana Hardy)*

*Chenile Chandler behind the scenes of the ganbu marra runway. (Image: Ashley* *Luskin)*

"This year I walked in ganbu marra and the Volvo Electric runway. Both incredible shows, I loved every minute.

Chandler says ganbu marra was an "empowering and inspiring" opportunity.

"Incredibly... ganbu marra is definitely a highlight for MFW and to have it be the opening show this year shows the support MFW shows for First Nations talent," she said.

"I felt staunch, beautiful, fierce. It's incredible how the fashion industry really brings people and their creativity to life."

*Chenile Chandler on the Volvo Electric runway. (Image: Naomi Rahim)*

"Opening MFW this year is HUGE. And having First Nations designers, models, HMU, crew all featured in other major shows throughout the week, not just having the one show is incredible and I think important in recognising First Nations talent and giving that the spotlight it deserves," she said.

When she is not walking the runway, Chandler is busy engaging in one of her many rewarding career paths.

"I'm currently attending acting school, but also sing at many different events across Melbourne in Woiwurrung language. Love my netball and currently play for the Western Warriors," she said.

"I also work full time as a First Nations Recruitment Coordinator helping our mob find sustainable and meaningful employment and education opportunities."

*Chenile Chandler on the Volvo Electric runway with her grandmother Aunty Joy Murphy. (Image: Naomi Rahim)*

*Chenile Chandler performing on the Volvo Electric runway. (Image: Naomi Rahim)*

Despite an already hectic schedule, Chandler says she has more in store.

"I have a very exciting project I'm working on that will be released in early December for my music. And a very recent acting gig that will be released soon too," she said.

"It's all happening at the moment and I'm very grateful."

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