Celebrating Colleen Tighe Johnson

Colleen Tighe Johnson, a proud Gomeroi woman and esteemed fashion designer, has been announced as a finalist for the 2024 National NAIDOC Creative Talent Award. Through her label, Buluuy Mirrii (meaning Black Star in Gamilaraay), Colleen intricately weaves Gomeroi Dreaming Stories into her designs, which have graced prestigious international runways from Melbourne to Paris, including New York Fashion Week and the Cannes Film Festival.

Colleen’s couture garments feature unique commissioned Gomeroi artworks on luxurious fabrics, telling profound cultural narratives. Her designs have been adorned by influential figures such as Dr Casey Sullivan, NSW Aboriginal Women of the Year 2024, showcasing the power of Indigenous creativity on a global stage.

Beyond her creative achievements, Colleen champions youth empowerment through the Buluuy Mirrii Youth Development Program. Now in its fifteenth year, this initiative has nurtured aspiring First Nations youth from Tamworth, Moree, and surrounding areas, fostering cultural growth alongside valuable industry skills. Many program graduates, particularly young women, have gone on to establish successful careers in fashion and entertainment.

Colleen Tighe Johnson’s impact extends beyond fashion; she embodies resilience, creativity, and community spirit, enriching the lives of women locally and inspiring global audiences with the richness of First Nations talent.

Vebiz proudly acknowledges NAIDOC Week and the contributions of Indigenous people to arts, culture, and community development. Congratulations Colleen Tighe Johnson! The National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony airs live on ABC at 7:30pm AEST on 6th July, 2024. Tune in to honour the achievements of First Nations talent.