Few can say they finished high school and went straight to France to model at Paris Fashion Week, but 18-year-old Indigenous model Letisha Davies has done just that.
A proud Karajarri and Bunuba woman, the teenager had just finished year 12 in her hometown of Fitzroy Crossing when this international opportunity first arose.
After having heard about the Flying Solo Runway through a family member, Davies was quick to jump on board despite being initially a little nervous that this would, in fact, be her first time modelling overseas.
"This is my first time modelling overseas," she said.
"I heard about this opportunity from a family member, and she helped me to get on board with this trip."
Although this was Davies' first time taking her career across borders, she started modelling after being provided with an opportunity to assist young students.
"My modelling journey started when a previous shooting stars coordinator Sam Shepard, gave me the opportunity to model garments made at school-by-school students," she said.
"I modelled these garments at a Bangarra event that happened at our school and I also modelled them at the Skutta runway earlier this year… that was the start for me."
Taking to the Flying Solo Runway in Paris to support local Fitzroy Crossing designer Letticia Shaw, Davies walked the catwalk wearing a selection of Shaw's Ticia Designs collection. Whilst this was her first time working with the fashion designer, the two creatives shared a mutual passion for fashion which bonded them even closer.
Similar to Shaw, Davies hoped that her participation at the international runway event would act as a reminder to other young Indigenous females and males that you can do and achieve anything you set your mind to.
"I want all the young men and women to know that you can get out there and do it," she said.
"I want everyone to know that you should reach for the things that you want and to never think too small …there is a whole world out there that would love to see your art and hear your story."
Similar to most models, Davies has several interests that she enjoys pursuing off the runway. Whilst she thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity, pursuing modelling full-time is something she may look at in the years to come.
"I'm hoping that this experience and exposure will open doors for me and modelling," she told Style Up.
"I'm not too sure about modelling full-time, I think I would have to do it part-time for a while just to get a feel for the industry, but I definitely love the atmosphere and the people you meet along the way."
When asked how she typically relaxes after a show, Davies said she looks forward to unwinding with a wholesome meal, book and movie after a busy few days of fittings, rehearsals and meetings.
"I will usually just get a good meal in, read a book and watch a movie. I enjoy time to myself after having so much exposure to people."
With the young model barely scratching the surface of what she is capable of, Davies' future is looking as bright as her positive outlook and eager attitude.
Ms Davies trip would not have been possible without the generosity of sponsors Roy Hill, Ms Gina Rinehart AO, Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation and Leedal Pty Ltd.
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