TRANSCRIPT
At a catwalk show in New Delhi, fashion models are showcasing designs from Kirrikin, a luxury garment brand that features artworks created by First Nations artists.
The brand was launched in 2014 by Amanda Healy, a proud Wonnarua woman from Hunter Valley in New South Wales, with only four staff.
Now, it's representing Australia in a business showcase in India, alongside other businesses owned and operated by First Australians.
Ms Healy says she's excited to join the showcase.
"The similarities between our people are remarkable. When we look at the artisans in central India and the work they do. Very based on nature, culture, country and community. It's very sympathetic with the type of artwork our women do."
The brand's latest collection, Evoke, combines artworks from First Nations women with Indian-made silk and cashmere.
Ms Healy says she hopes the collection can reflect a natural partnership between Aboriginal and Indian cultures with deep artistic traditions.
The showcase of First Nations businesses in India is part of an initiative following a trade agreement between Australia and India in 2022.
It aims to expand opportunities for Indigenous participation in international trade.
Besides Kirrikin, eight leading businesses owned and operated by Indigenous Australians are also part of the delegation to India.
They come from mining, energy and the renewables sector, forming what's been called the first ever First Nations Business Mission to India.
Liza Fraser-Gooda is a Bidjara, Ghangulu and Iman woman and a co-founder of SafeSpear.
She says the engagements in India - including a mining conference in Kolkata* - represents an important chance to boost exposure to Aboriginal businesses in one of the world's fastest growing economies.
"It's about how we can collaborate and share knowledge. And open those trade opportunities and to build our businesses. And to create pathways, but pathways not only to build business - but also create employment opportunities and training opportunities."
