Opendoor’s Workforce Australia Transition to Work team recently partnered with the Local Jobs Program and Global Indigenous Management to create opportunities for young people in design and fashion through the First Nations INK Fashion Project.
One of those young people was Lilith.
When Lilith first connected with Opendoor’s Workforce Australia Transition to Work program, she was quiet, reserved and hesitant to engage with others. With encouragement from her Opendoor Youth Coach, Shauna Goss, and Employer Engagement Coordinator, Mariam, she decided to take part in the First Nations INK Fashion Project, an initiative designed to empower young Indigenous people through fashion, art and storytelling.
In that creative space, Lilith found community and the opportunity to express herself through colour, texture and design.
Her final piece was inspired by her poem, A Single Tree in a Vast Empty Field.
“My design represents resilience, growth and individuality,” Lilith said.
“Inspired by my poem, A Single Tree in a Vast Empty Field, it reflects the idea of standing strong and staying true to yourself, even in challenging or isolating environments. The single tree symbolises endurance and quiet strength, a reminder that beauty and purpose can exist even in stillness or struggle.
“By combining poetry with fashion, I wanted to create something meaningful and wearable, expressing creativity, identity and emotion through design.”
Lilith’s design has already inspired many, including Tina Waru, CEO of Global Indigenous Management, who shared Lilith’s story and work with her wider organisation.
Her work is now on display at Melbourne Airport (Terminal 4) from 10 to 14 November 2025.
To learn more about Global Indigenous Management, visit their website.
Can we help you? Opendoor’s Workforce Australia Transition to Work service supports young people to build skills, confidence and employment pathways. If you are aged 15 to 24, we can help you take your first steps. Learn more.
