2021 Miss NAIDOC Perth finalists announced

## Nine of Western Australia’s brightest First Nations women have been announced as finalists for Miss NAIDOC Perth 2021.

An annual 6-week leadership and empowerment program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, Miss NAIDOC Perth aims to increase participants’ awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues, strengthen their cultural connections and develop their leadership skills and self-confidence to speak in public. It also encourages them to pursue their goals both personally and professionally,  supporting them to positively represent the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community of Perth. For over 10 years, this grassroots program has helped over 100 young First Nations women strengthen their cultural connections, develop interpersonal skills and find their voices.

With over 500 applications submitted this year, the program’s growth in popularity makes the achievements of the nine finalists even more impressive.

Tiarna Wynne, one of the program participants commented on her experience with Miss NAIDOC Perth thus far.

“Already it has challenged me, made me feel empowered, vulnerable, and beautiful.”

Whist there can only be one winner of Miss NAIDOC for 2021, participation in the program is about so much more than who takes out the final title.

“All of us girls have something so special to give to one another. So far, this journey has given us a sisterhood,” notes finalist Kiahara Jacobs.

Miss NAIDOC 2021 will be crowned at the gala event held at Crown Perth on Saturday, July 10.  This community event is open to the public, and you can book tickets here.

Feature image: Cybele Malinowski (IG @cybism)