Fatima Payman (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Last month I had the pleasure of meeting the Creative Director of Kaleidoscope World of Fashion, Astrid Tshidibu. Kaleidoscope is a forward-thinking brand that dismantles barriers, fuels imagination and embodies the true essence of diversity and inclusivity. Fashion can be a powerful means of self-expression that speaks to our identities, cultures and aspirations. As a senator for Western Australia, it brings me great pride to witness Kaleidoscope pushing the boundaries of creativity while embracing the importance of representation in creative spaces.

Australia is a mosaic of cultures, experiences and narratives waiting to be shared. Kaleidoscope provide the canvas on which these stories come to life. On 28 November, Kaleidoscope will hold their annual fashion show. I encourage everyone to attend the show and support the local Western Australian artists who will be exhibiting their work. I note, having gone to it last year, that it will be an amazing event. The joy and excitement were palpable. While this year I will be in this place, I will be there in spirit. I wish everyone all the very best for this wonderful event.

Growing up in Perth's northern suburbs I felt as Australian as anyone, but I didn't feel represented by the mainstream fashion industry. The faces on magazines did not look like mine, and their voices didn't speak to me and my experiences. Organisations like Kaleidoscope, which celebrates the beauty of diversity and inclusivity, not only inspire creatives all over Australia but make people from diverse backgrounds feel seen and represented. Thank you.