Despite being in his teenage years, First Nations high school student and model Javier Jones is proving age is only a number.

After recently attending Australian Fashion Week in Sydney earlier this month, Jones has cemented his spot as an upcoming First Nations model to keep an eye on.

The proud Larrakia man always strives to celebrate his culture and everything it represents, regularly engaging in opportunities which support and encourage further representation for First Nations models and creatives.

"I'm a proud Larrakia man born and raised on my ancestral lands of Garamilla - more commonly known as Darwin in the Northern Territory," he said.

"It's not like Darwin has a lot of opportunity for emerging models, so when I was a lot younger, I had done a few editorial shoots and campaigns interstate.

"I feel my culture and identity will be what takes me further in this industry-it's not just about having the right walk, or looking good in something, or even just like looking like everyone else, it's about representation.

"It may be harder for me to get there, but the difference it will make to the kids that come after me, to see someone like them, gives them hope."

Jones said his relationship with Blaklist founder, Teagan Cowlishaw, goes back to before the First Nations creative agency was founded.

"Teagan and I actually go back a long way. My mum discovered Aarli Fashion and made contact to tell her all about me," he said.

"About a year later, when I was eight, TJ was in Darwin shooting the Aarli x Clair Helen range, which I was apart of and became a 'Deadly' Youth Ambassador.

"TJ founded Blaklist and It's just been a matter of time since then, waiting until I was old enough.

"Being a NextGen intern with Blaklist has already created many opportunities and experiences for me that have increased my own self growth and self-confidence.

"From my first NIT Style up interview, photoshoot development, to experimenting with different forms of fashion to express myself. Just the relationships I've built alone have been life changing for me."

After heading to Australian Fashion Week with Blaklist Agency in May, Jones shared how the opportunity to work at the large scale fashion event inspired him to succeed.

"AFW 2025 blew my mind! I felt so grateful to have been able to experience it for the first time," he said.

"It's hard to express how unreal the experience was and being there surrounded by my Blaklist family, to feel so much love, support and encouragement."

"Unfortunately due to age restrictions, I wasn't able to walk this year, however I was given the opportunity to assist BOH as a Next Gen Intern for the Iordanes Spyridon Gogos Show.

"I just loved that Jordan showcased a variety of human representations wearing his unique and bold creations. Having that exposure and insight BTS was invaluable and I'm really excited for next year."

Jones said being involved at Australian Fashion Week made Jones more aware of the ongoing issue of First Nations representation at large scale fashion events.

"I don't feel the opportunities for First Nations models in general is increasing nearly enough," he said.

"In comparison to years ago, yes the number has increased however it seems like you only see a few established First Nations models in mainstream media and shows.

"There is so much more Blak talent out there, and we just need to be given the exposure, opportunities and show our young people that representation matters."

When Jones is not on the runway he - like many high school students - is jugging a part-time job, assignments and several hobbies.

"Along with being a high school student, I also work weekends at the best café in Darwin and will soon be working in a fashion retail store, which I'm really looking forward to!" he said.

"To keep fit and active, you'll find me at the tennis court a couple of times a week."

With a handful of projects scheduled for the remainder of 2025, Jones has his sights on the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair's Country to Couture runway in August.

"Focussing on prepping for runway is currently at the top of my list, and if all goes well, I will hopefully be walking 'Country to Couture' at DAAF this August," he said.

"Walking runway at DAAF would be awesome as a Larrakia man walking on his ancestral lands. Following that… I cannot wait for AFW 2026.

"I love being able to showcase First Nations artists/designers, support them as they are supporting me, it's a win win!

"I recently wore the "Regions' shirt designed by Sarrita King the artist to The Welcome to Country at AFW, I was very proud to be wearing it and it felt special to wear something which told a story.

"It's important to me to work with brands who support greater representation, but I cant limit myself, I'm open to all that's out there."

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