fashion

From Indigenous Engagement Advisor to successful First Nations model, Style Up catches up with Ieesha Caton

Phoebe Blogg -

After walking the runway at this year's 2025 Australian Fashion Week as a proud First Nations model, Ieesha Caton spoke with on all things career, community and culture.

"I am a Kalkadoon woman from the Mount Isa region of Queensland, though I was born and raised in Western Australia. On my mother's side, I also have Sri Lankan heritage, which I'm really proud of," Caton told Style Up.

Having recently signed with First Nations creative agency, Blaklist, the young model shared that her choice to join the team at Blaklist was not only for the opportunities, but also the agency's supportive founder Teagan Cowlishaw and her push for greater representation.

"My journey into modeling kind of first started happening after coming across BlakList Agency. I saw that it was an Indigenous-run agency, and that really stood out to me. It wasn't just about fashion; it was about culture, community, and representation," she said.

"When I was later selected for the Next Gen program, it all started to feel real. That opportunity gave me the confidence and platform to step into the industry, and I've been learning and growing ever since."

Model Ieesha Caton at Australian Fashion Week, featured in Style Up's May print edition. (Image: Marley Morgan)

Caton said it was through social media that she initially became aware of the agency and its mission to create more opportunities for First Nations creatives.

"I actually followed BlakList on social media and saw that they were scouting for their 2025 Next Gen program. Since joining, the experience has been amazing. It's so empowering to be surrounded by other Blak creatives and to be part of a community that truly understands the importance of representation," she said.

"I've learned a lot already and feel proud to be part of something that's pushing boundaries in the industry."

Ieesha Caton and the Blaklist team at Australian Fashion Week. (Image: Instagram @ieesha_caton @vasilipapathanasopoulos)

One notable achievement for Caton this year was her participation at Sydney's Australian Fashion Week (AFW).

Walking the runway as one of the Blaklist creatives to be selected, Caton was thrilled to represent mob at the high fashion event.

"AFW was such a surreal experience. It was my first time, I was walking in the Jordan Gogos show, and walking that runway was something I'll never forget. Representing mob on such a big platform was incredibly meaningful and wearing Jordon's pieces was a big honour," Caton told Style Up.

"Walking alongside other deadly Blak talent and collaborating with the BlakList team made me feel supported and part of something much bigger than myself."

Caton hopes to see further progress and representation at the event moving forward.

"I felt really proud to see First Nations representation both on and off the runway. Being surrounded by other indigenous creatives felt like a step forward. That being said, while there has been progress, there's still more work to be done," she said.

"I think that true representation means we are included at every level, it's about having our voices heard, in leadership roles, and shaping the direction of these spaces. But overall, it was incredible to be part of something where mob were proudly represented and taking up space."

Model Ieesha Caton at Australian Fashion Week, featured in Style Up's May print edition. (Image: Marley Morgan)

Caton said her advice for other First Nations creatives looking to break into the industry is: "To be proud and embrace who they are unapologetically. Don't feel like you have to change to fit into this industry."

"It can probably feel intimidating at first, but stay true to yourself, take up space, and surround yourself with people that are going to lift you up. Your art and your story deserve to be heard," she said.

Caton is also extremely busy working as an Indigenous Engagement Advisor.

"Outside of modelling, I work as an Indigenous Engagement Advisor. I'm really passionate about creating pathways for mob into meaningful employment and making sure our voices are heard in spaces where decisions are being made," she said.

"I also do art on the side; it's something I've always loved and a way for me to stay connected to culture and express myself creatively. It's not always easy to find the time, but whenever I do, it's something I really enjoy."

Caton is eager to engage in new opportunities.

"I'm staying open to new opportunities and just enjoying the ride. Whether it's more modelling, creative projects, or community work, I'm keen to keep growing and learning in whatever space I step into. So, we'll just have to wait and see," she said.

For more fashion, culture, arts and lifestyle news subscribe for free to the Style Up newsletter.

   Related   

   Phoebe Blogg   

Download our App

Article Audio

National Indigenous Times