‘Model MATES’ event celebrates young people on the Autism spectrum

During National Autism Awareness Month in April, Westfield Miranda collaborated with local non-profit organisation Autism MATES (Mates Assisting To Engage Socially), to host ‘Model MATES’.

Models with Randa Habelrih, Autism MATES CEO at Model MATES in Westfield Miranda

Autism MATES creates opportunities for people on the autism spectrum to participate more fully in public life. The Model MATES event puts young autistic people front and centre as they rock the catwalk alongside professional models showcasing the season’s latest trends.

The event provides the opportunity for young people to feel celebrated while increasing visibility and showcasing how those on the spectrum can rise up to the occasion when given the opportunity.

In addition to Autism MATES, our Westfield Miranda team worked with 2020 Westfield Miranda Local Hero, Bronte Hendricks of Stellar Experiences, who sponsored the event and stylist, Bernadette Payne, to bring the event to life.

Westfield Miranda Centre Manager, Trish Dullard said: “We were delighted to host the Model MATES event at Westfield Miranda and provide an opportunity for those on the autism spectrum to shine. Through our fashion retail partners and Westfield Local Heroes program alumni, we were proud to celebrate National Autism Awareness Month with Autism MATES.

“Our Westfield destinations are located in the heart of communities, and we’re committed to creating places that reflect those local communities, where everyone feels welcome and included. Hosting events like Model MATES is one way we bring that to life and use our Westfield destinations to connect and enrich our communities.

“We have partnered with Autism MATES to host Model MATES in our Westfield destinations since 2017.”

Author and disability advocate Lisa Cox made a special appearance in support of the event, saying: “I’m thrilled to support the Model MATES event at Westfield Miranda which showcases people of all abilities having fun and living their best life. Creating consistent inclusivity is key to ensuring meaningful representation, and the Model MATES runway is another way we can show up to support our community.”

The Model MATES participants told us what the event means to them:

Teo Tissue, from Netflix's Love on the Spectrum and Model MATES model said: “I feel so brave when I am modelling at Model MATES. I love the fashion and I love feeling beautiful. It helps me with my self-confidence and has made me want to have a career in modelling. It has helped me get on Love on the Spectrum, which was a great experience for me.”

Chloe Galloway struts her stuff at Model MATES at Westfield Miranda

About Autism MATES:

Autism MATES focuses on empowerment and strives for acceptance, holding events that put the autistic community front and centre on stage to advocate for themselves and their peers. This approach helps to develop self-esteem and confidence while educating the wider community. We are visible, we are inclusive, and we invite you to join us in our vision.