STEPPING OUT, STEPPING UP: WHAT THE CREATE + CATWALK EVENT MEANT TO ME
By Jayden XX
This event was a big deal for me. It wasn’t just another evening, it was the first time I have done something like this. I attended Create + Catwalk at Brand X in Darlinghurst, an event that is part of the Create Space Arts Initiative. The event was about fashion and the community but for me, it was about much more than that. It was about challenging myself, trying new things and feeling proud of what I achieved.
I’ll admit, I was nervous about coming. I even bought a new shirt just for the occasion, it felt like an important moment and I wanted to make sure I looked the part! Getting there was part of the adventure too. I caught public transport by myself, something I don’t really do. Every step of the way, I kept thinking, I can do this. And I did.
Walking into the event, I felt excited and a bit nervous. But that quickly changed. The space was so welcoming and the people were so kind and encouraging. It didn’t feel like I had to pretend to be someone else. I could just be me.
What I loved most about Create + Catwalk was how it brought people together. My favourite part of the night was talking to people. If you’d told me a year ago that I’d be doing this, having real conversations with strangers, I wouldn’t have believed you. But there I was, chatting with all the people, sharing laughs and feeling like I belonged.
The creative activities were incredible too. We all painted clothing items we either brought from home or were available on the night. There was something for everyone. I even contributed to decorating a bridal dress and seeing everyone working together, each person adding their own touch, was amazing.
As I stood there on the night, I felt something I don’t feel often enough – pride. I was proud of myself for coming, for stepping out of my comfort zone and for doing things I didn’t think I could.
Part of my role on the night was to support visitors and help make them feel comfortable. Before the night I did some volunteer training so I knew what was expected of me. This was out of my comfort zone but I proved to myself that I could be part of an event like this.
No matter how small my efforts might have seemed to others, it was huge for me.
What helped was the accepting nature of the event. It wasn’t overwhelming like some places can be. It was designed with people like me in mind, with quiet rooms and a sensory-friendly setup. That made all the difference. I didn’t feel pressured or judged. Instead, I felt included and respected.
Create + Catwalk showed me what’s possible when events are made for everyone. It wasn’t just an arts event but a place where everyone, no matter who they are, could be themselves. And this is freedom.
As I got that train home that night I felt happy, stronger, positive and excited about what’s next. I know now that I can do more than I thought I could. I didn’t just feel like I was attending, I felt like I was contributing. And that’s a feeling I’ll carry with me as I take on whatever comes next.