2023 Next Gen Program

2023 Next Gen PROGRAM

Blaklist Next Gen launched in November 2023 at the State Library of Western Australia: a twelve-month pathway program for young First Nations models, built to connect emerging talent with national platforms and, for graduates, the opportunity to be signed by the agency.

The 2023 cohort

  • Kahlia Rogers — Fitzroy Crossing, WA

  • Hayley Mulardy — Broome, WA

  • Calli-Rose Woods — Turkey Creek, WA

The launch week ran as a mentoring intensive led by Elaine George, the program's mentor and ambassador. Workshops covered portfolio development, casting, runway etiquette, social media and interview technique, alongside self-care and empowerment sessions. The week also included casting sessions, a MECCA beauty workshop and an e-commerce shoot.

"I want the next generation to be able to walk in two worlds, identify/culture and the Western world."
— Elaine George

Where they are now
Hayley Mulardy and Calli-Rose Woods are both on the BL Next Gen: Talent roster today.

2023 Blaklist Next Gen Program was supporters and sponsors include Training Zhivago, BlakLens, State Library of WA, Sharon Comma, MECCA, The ICONIC, BONDS Australia, Flyy Bod and Kullarri Pty Ltd

Reported by Phoebe Blogg for National Indigenous Times, 16 November 2023. [Read the full article → https://nit.com.au/16-11-2023/8626/blacklist-agency-launch-first-nations-model-pathways-program-blaklist-next-gen ]

2023 BLAKLIST NEXT GEN FINALISTS

Hayley mulardy

“I was interested in Next Gen program because I wanted to do something different and step out of my comfort zone. When I was told about the stages of the program that it sounded exciting and im always up for something new and adventurous. I thought... if this opportunity can open doors for me and imagine if this could help my community than I was like HELL YEAH I'm in!”

Calli-Rose Woods

“My experience has been joyful. I’m learning so much about myself and all attributes important to becoming a model as well. I’ve enjoyed every bit so far it’s lifted my self-esteem. It’s helping me build myself into a better leader for my people and it’s been opening doorways I never thought could open for me.

My favourite part has been being able to meet and make friends with other young and upcoming models where we’ve built a great support system for ourselves. But another high from the program for me is getting to do all these different workshops and information sessions with all these brands and businesses.”

Kahlia Rogers

“Take every opportunity, you know, if you have an opportunity to get into the fashion industry, take it, embrace every opportunity that is given to you with whatever it says, if that's in art or fashion or dancing or drama, take it all”

peer Mentorship & Support

Elaine George, BLAKLIST Ambassador and Lead Mentor, guides the program alongside Peer Mentors from previous Next Gen cohorts, providing guidance, empowerment, and career advice throughout the year.

Training & Development

Next Gen offers a holistic program focusing on:

  • Personal branding and presentation skills

  • Hair and makeup fundamentals

  • Professional deportment and work ethic

  • Runway training

  • Media readiness and social skills

  • Community engagement and cultural practice

Program Platform Partnerships

  • Iordanes Spyridon Gogos at Australian Fashion Week 2023

  • Indigenous Fashion Projects 2023

  • Brisbane Fashion Festival 2023