Meet the Winners of the 2025 National Indigenous Fashion Awards
Highly Commended:
Djilpin Arts artists collaboration with Kate Sale & Fiona Gavino
On 6 August, Indigenous Fashion Projects celebrated the exceptional talent of First Nations designers at the 2025 National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA) held on Larrakia Country in Darwin. The ceremony, part of the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation’s cultural program, honoured seven outstanding creatives from a shortlist of 38 finalists, highlighting the vibrancy and innovation of Indigenous fashion and textiles.
Community Collaboration Award:
Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association x Tiwi Artists
NIFA recognises excellence across categories including textile design, traditional adornment, wearable art, business achievement, and community collaboration, showcasing diverse stories and sustainable practices rooted in culture.
Traditional Adornment Award:
Rena Ngalinggama Guyula, Gapuwiyak Culture and Arts
Among the standout winners is Clair Helen Parker (pictured below, left), awarded Fashion Designer of the Year. A Tiwi woman from Boorloo (Perth), Clair’s work blends Indigenous symbolism with modern design, creating powerful wearable art that tells stories of identity and heritage. Her 12-month mentorship with Country Road promises to amplify her impact within the industry.
Other winners include Rhonda Sharpe (pictured above, right), who crafts textile art from recycled wool; Rena Ngalinggama Guyula, celebrated for traditional adornment made from native fibres; and community collaborations like the Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association x Tiwi Artists capsule collection.
Wearable Art Award:
Cleonie Quayle
The awards also recognised young talent, such as Cindy Rostron (pictured below, left), a Bunungku model and youth leader, and business achievements by Miimi & Jiinda (pictured below, right), a mother-daughter duo bringing Gumbaynggirr culture to wider audiences.
This year’s NIFA not only celebrates creativity but also strengthens connections between Indigenous communities and the fashion industry, inspiring cultural pride and innovation.
Watch the event on NITV in October and catch the travelling exhibition showcasing award-winning designs across Australia in 2025-26.