Key Takeaways
- The After the Flood Fashion Project was initiated to promote healing from the 2020 floods in Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia, through fashion.
- The project involved workshops and a final runway event, where residents modeled local designs on the old Fitzroy Crossing bridge.
- The project was jointly funded by the Australian and West Australian governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
- Prominent designers and international models returned to their hometown to mentor participants and help build confidence and self-esteem.
- The project aimed to expose participants to various pathways in the fashion industry and promote healing and confidence-building.
Introduction to the After the Flood Fashion Project
The small town of Fitzroy Crossing in Western Australia’s far north is still recovering from the devastating floods that hit the area almost three years ago. While the infrastructure has been rebuilt, the emotional scars remain. However, the town has found a unique way to promote healing and confidence-building through fashion. The After the Flood Fashion Project, initiated by the Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation (MWW), has brought the community together to showcase local designs and talent. The project has not only helped to rebuild confidence but has also put Fitzroy Crossing on the map as the "outback fashion capital" of Australia.
The Fashion Project in Action
The project involved a series of workshops and a final runway event, where residents modeled local designs on the old Fitzroy Crossing bridge. The event was a huge success, with participants walking the runway with confidence and poise. Resident and MWW staff member Geneva Watson participated in her first runway event and found it to be a rewarding experience. She said that connecting with local mentors, including prominent designers Camilla Sawford and Brodie George, and international model Billie-Jean Hamlet, helped to bolster her confidence. The mentors, who returned to their hometown to participate in the project, played a significant role in guiding the participants and helping them to build their self-esteem.
Building Confidence and Self-Esteem
The project has had a significant impact on the participants, helping to build their confidence and self-esteem. Kahlia Rogers, a Fitzroy Crossing resident and MWW worker, who has experience walking on runways across Australia and overseas, said that it was great to give back to the community. She remembered her first time on the runway and how nervous she was, but said that it was a great experience to help the girls out and share her knowledge. The workshops exposed participants to various pathways in the fashion industry, including modeling, designing, and styling. The project aimed to help participants build their confidence and self-esteem, not just in the context of the fashion industry, but also in their day-to-day lives.
The Impact of the Project
The After the Flood Fashion Project has had a significant impact on the community, promoting healing and confidence-building. The project has brought the community together, providing a platform for residents to showcase their talent and creativity. The event has also put Fitzroy Crossing on the map, attracting attention from across Australia and internationally. The project’s success has shown that fashion can be a powerful tool for healing and confidence-building, and it is hoped that it will continue to have a positive impact on the community in the years to come. The project’s organizers and participants are already looking forward to future events, and it is clear that the After the Flood Fashion Project will have a lasting legacy in Fitzroy Crossing.
Conclusion
The After the Flood Fashion Project is a testament to the power of fashion and community. The project has shown that even in the face of adversity, creativity and determination can come together to create something truly special. The project’s success is a tribute to the residents of Fitzroy Crossing, who have come together to rebuild and heal their community. As the town continues to recover from the floods, the After the Flood Fashion Project will remain an important part of its history and identity. The project’s legacy will continue to inspire and empower future generations, promoting confidence, self-esteem, and creativity in the community.