The Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) Foundation has launched a donation drive to back culturally grounded pathways into modelling, art and creative industries such as fashion.
The Christmas Fundraising Appeal will raise money for young people aged 16 to 25 from remote communities who aspire to share their creativity, culture and identity on a national stage.
With the support of Creative Australia, all donations made by December 25 this year will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000, helping DAAF Foundation reach its $100,000 fundraising target.
The pathways will be run through DAAF’s Indigenous Fashion Projects and its public programs. This includes wrap-around mentorship for young aspiring models travelling to Garramilla/Darwin for Country to Couture, hands-on training in styling and back-of-house roles, and opportunities for emerging artists to participate in their first artist masterclasses, produce murals, and access equipment and guidance.
Essential staff support is also funded to ensure culturally safe and inclusive delivery of these programs.
DAAF Foundation executive director Claire Summers said this appeal represents a meaningful way for the community to come together during the festive season.
“When you give to DAAF Foundation, you're helping open doors to our inspired future leaders,” Summers said.
“You’re walking alongside young people taking their bold first steps, and helping us build culturally grounded pathways into the arts and fashion sectors. We believe this holiday season offers a unique opportunity for our community to come together for this cause.”
Tiana Russell is one person to have benefitted from the DAAF programs. At 16 years of age, she first stepped onto the Country to Couture runway. Four years later, she now is working for the DAAF Foundation and credits the experience as transformative.
“Being only 16, I was terrified. I remember being incredibly insecure and doubting myself, but being part of this show changed my life,” Russell said. “I felt proud and honoured to not only learn the stories of the First Nations fashion creatives around me, but to show off historical designs to the world.”
Tax-deductible donations can be made up until December 25 via the DAAF website.