Face masks have become a new accessories category all on their own of late, and since they’ve become mandatory in public places in Victoria and encouraged in other areas of Australia, they have unsurprisingly been given the fashion treatment.
Naturally, as the fashion industry continues to offer support to those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, many have looked to creating face masks that are both stylish and effective in stopping the spread of the virus.
In particular, many First Nation and migrant organisations and fashion brands have looked to creating masks that not only provide the safety measure to the general public but are also giving some of the proceeds back to those who need it most.
Below, everywhere to shop for reusable face masks that also give back to Indigenous and migrant communities.
SisterWorks
Through work and entrepreneurship, Melbourne-based not-for-profit SisterWorks’ mission is to support women who are refugees, asylum seekers or migrants so they can improve their confidence, mental wellbeing, sense of belonging and economic outlook. The organisation works on the vision that all migrant women are given the opportunities to become economically empowered.
Their face masks are made from two layers of 100 percent cotton fabric and one layer of muslin lining, and 50 percent of the profits made will be going to support the refugee and migrant women who made them.
Shop here.
Yarli Creative
Yarli Creative was founded by Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung and Gamilaroi woman Madison Connors, who creates incredible artworks inspired by her culture.
Their collection of face masks are printed with a Yarli Creative original artwork hand-painted by Connors and comes with a filter pocket and the recommended triple layer of fabric. Presale profits are going to Elizabeth Morgan House, an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation that provides victim-survivor support to all women, including refuge accommodation and specialist family violence services.
Shop here.
Bundarra
Indigenous clothing manufacturer Bundarra was born with the purpose of bringing Indigenous culture to the mainstream, with profits channelled into supporting community development.
Their newly released face masks feature authentic Indigenous artwork, which means that a purchase will help support Indigenous creatives. Each mask is made of three layers with activated carbon filters and adjustable ear straps. Artist collaborations on the masks include Bundjalung woman Holly Sanders, Quandamooka woman Shara Delaney and Wagiman man Nathan Patterson.
Shop here.
Kangaroo Jack
Melbourne-based apparel brand Kangaroo Jack is selling handmade face masks featuring artwork by Indigenous artist Faye Oliver. They feature breathable cotton and an interchangeable double layer.
With every sale of a face mask, Kangaroo Jack will be donating 15 percent of profits to the local Wadawurrung Indigenous Community at the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Victoria. The Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a not-for-profit organisation that facilitates indigenous educational programs for Australian school students and disadvantaged indigenous youth.
Shop here.
Raintree Art
Raintree Art has created face masks that feature artworks reproduced under license from Warlukurlangu Artists, a not-for-profit organisation that is 100 percent Aboriginal-owned. It supports artists from the communities of Yuendumu and Nyirripi in Central Australia.
Their face masks feature artworks reproduced under licence from Warlukurlangu Artists, which is a 100% Aboriginal-owned not-for-profit organisation. The cotton masks also feature an adjustable nose wire to fit comfortably.
Shop here.
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