Giving a platform to creative people of Pacific heritage

South West Multicultural and Community Centre
Motivated. Passionate. Committed

Jannike Seiuli helped her community-worker parents from a young age and developed a passion for giving to others.

Her other big passions are her Maori Samoan community and culture, as well as performing arts and event management.

Eight years ago, Jannike pulled it all together and staged her first Pacific Runway fashion show in the heart of Campbelltown to provide a platform for designers, stylists and performers of Pacific heritage.

It started slowly, but the annual non-profit show now attracts international attention and features up to 20 designers and 70 models from around Australia, the Pacific Islands and New Zealand.

“I love creating opportunities for community and then seeing them shine,” says Jannike, who worked with South West Multicultural and Community Centre to create Pacific Runway.

She feels honoured to be voted a Westfield Local Hero. “It is a beautiful reminder as to why I love doing what I do and working within my local community,” she says.

The fashion show is held at the Carriageworks contemporary arts centre and creates opportunities for designers, make-up artists and stylists to go into business and for the models to gain experience and develop a career.

Models and designers have gone on to perform in Paris, London and around the Pacific.

One of Jannike’s obstacles to achieving her vision was that she had lots of experience running events but no qualifications. So, she completed a certificate and diploma, despite working two jobs and looking after her first baby at the same time.

Despite her success, she holds onto her humble beginnings and says she will never forget her values and where Pacific Runway all started.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation.

South West Multicultural and Community Centre will use its grant to provide workshops and multimedia support for Pacific Runway participants.

“We are able to assist those in need and those who are looking for ways to break into the industry,” says Jannike.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here.