Shortlisted NIFA 2025 nominees announced, celebrating indigenous creativity
The National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA) 2025 (Darwin, Australia) has officially announced its shortlisted nominees, highlighting the exceptional creativity, cultural knowledge, and innovation of First Nations designers and artists. Presented by Indigenous Fashion Projects (IFP), and supported by the Northern Territory Government and leading industry sponsors, NIFA continues its mission to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contributions to fashion and textile artistry.
A Showcase of Indigenous Talent
Now in its sixth year, NIFA has evolved into a prominent platform celebrating Indigenous voices in fashion. The 2025 edition spans seven award categories, each showcasing the richness of design, storytelling, and cultural heritage. The event not only honours individual and collective achievements but also fosters economic opportunities and wider recognition for Indigenous creators.
The NIFA 2025 winners will be announced on Wednesday, 6 August, at a ceremony held at the Deckchair Cinema on Larrakia Country in Darwin, coinciding with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF).
2025 NIFA Nominees
- Fashion Designer Award (Supported by Country Road)
Celebrating designers who combine originality, cultural storytelling, and commercial viability. The winner receives either a $5,000 cash prize or a 12-month mentorship with Country Road.
Nominees: Clair Helen Parker (Clair Helen), Tahnee Edwards (Gammin Threads), Samala Cronin (MumRed), Natisha Tabua (Off The Plantation), Melissa Greenwood (Miimi & Jiinda). - Cecilia Cubillo Young Achiever Award (Supported by Franchesca Cubillo)
Recognising emerging talent aged 15–25 in fashion, textiles, modelling, styling, and wearable art, with a $3,000 prize.
Nominees: Cindy Rostron, Jake Powers, Tiesha Munnich, Elliot Mango Aplin. - Textile Design Award (Supported by RMIT University)
Highlighting innovation in textile techniques, including printed, woven, dyed, or digital work, with a tailored professional development opportunity from RMIT’s School of Fashion and Textiles.
Nominees: Rhonda Sharpe (Yarrenyty Arltere Artists), Larissa Brumby (Ikuntji Artists), Karen Shuan (Yalanji Arts), Greg Salt (Yalanji Arts), Laurence Gibson (Yalanji Arts), Joyce Dixon (Ikuntji Artists). - Community Collaboration Award (Supported by Canberra Centre)
Honouring collaborations between Indigenous communities and designers, prioritising shared agency, cultural integrity, and economic benefit. Winners receive a $10,000 cash prize shared between collaborators.
Nominees: Gapuwiyak Culture and Arts x Helen Kaminski, Djilpin Arts artists x Kate Sale and Fiona Gavino, David Leslie (GALI Swimwear) x Jake Simon, IYDA and Michal Nicolas (TEAMM8), Wendy Hubert (Juluwarlu) x Emily Wright (Nancybird), Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association, Gina Bundle. - Traditional Adornment Award (Supported by Helen Kaminski)
Recognising an item of cultural regalia—such as head-dresses or ceremonial attire—highlighting cultural preservation. The winner receives a $3,000 prize.
Nominees: Cassie Leatham (Yanggurdi), Yarran Bundle, Ngaire Pakai, Rena Ngalinggama, Jenny Fraser. - Wearable Art Award (Supported by Eastland)
Honouring a single, expressive piece that combines art and fashion with cultural storytelling. The winner receives a $5,000 prize.
Nominees: Julieanne Gitjpulu Malibirr (Gapuwiyak Culture & Arts), Andrew Wanamilil (Bula’bula Arts), Cathy Ward (Waringarri Arts), Cassie Leatham (Yanggurdi), Cleonie Quayle (CQ Aboriginal Jewellery), Ellen Trevorrow.
A Celebration of Culture and Innovation
Cassandra Dimitroff, reporting for NIFA, commended the diversity and quality of submissions, reflecting the vibrant and evolving Indigenous fashion landscape. With its continued support from institutions such as Country Road, RMIT, and Eastland, NIFA remains a beacon of recognition and opportunity for Indigenous creators.
As the awards ceremony approaches, anticipation builds to see who will be recognised for their remarkable contributions to fashion and culture. The event will not only celebrate artistic achievement but also affirm the significance of cultural storytelling and innovation within the Australian fashion industry.
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