… Well, if we’re talking about canoeist Jess Fox, Network 10 presenter Narelda Jacobs, and Dr. Lee-Mei Yap, the answer is the powerful belief that “they’re worth it.” And, the fact that these three powerhouses led a group of inspirational women to celebrate a shared commitment to self-worth, empowerment, and unapologetic authenticity as they walked L’Oreal Paris‘ first-ever Australian Australian “Walk Your Worth” runway.
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Set against the stormy, yet stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour – and inspired by the brand’s renowned Le Defile in Paris – the October 24 event celebrated diversity, resilience, and beauty with a purpose. And, delivered more than just a typical fashion showcase. Rather, all 250 guests, including celebrities, activists, and aspiring designers, gathered at the Overseas Passenger Terminal to celebrate self-worth together.
Strength in Sisterhood
While it may have been a sartorial spectacle, L’Oreal Paris’ “Walk Your Worth” Runway wasn’t about fashion alone. Instead, it was a demonstration of strength, sisterhood, and super empowerment. And, an opportunity for some of Australia’s strongest female advocates to leave their red-hot mark on the back carpet. And beyond.
“Walking alongside so many incredible women to celebrate sisterhood and self-worth was thrilling,” said Fox. “The message ‘Because you’re worth it’ has always resonated with me, and to be part of this movement, encouraging everyone to embrace their authentic selves, feels really special.”
Fox wasn’t the only one empowered by this mission. Joining her were actress Madeleine Madden, advocate and model Riley Hemson, and other notable women, each with unique stories and contributions to society. Media personality Jessica Rowe, Paralympian Ellie Cole, and activist Courtney Ugle were among the 20 women who brought the message of beauty beyond skin-deep to life, embodying resilience and purpose as they took to the runway.
Stars, style and Sydney Celebrations
As a tribute to the brand’s iconic slogan, “Because You’re Worth It,” the show brought together five acts that celebrated inclusive beauty in Australia and New Zealand. Each segment showcased designs from local talent, including Paul MacCann, Mariam Seddiq, and the iconic label Romance Was Born. Styled by Jessica Pecoraro, the runway highlighted everything from edgy streetwear to sophisticated evening attire, showing the versatility of beauty in all forms.
As the show unfolded, it became clear that the evening was a celebration of activism and authenticity. Content creators like Ashira Paraskevas, who advocates for mental health awareness, and Riley Hemson, a body positivity advocate, served as reminders of the transformative impact women can have when they speak out. Vitiligo model Onella Muralihdharan challenged traditional beauty standards, while Penny Hill tackled stereotypes around aging. Each participant embodied the event’s message: self-worth isn’t about external validation; it’s about owning who you are.
The star-studded affair also attracted a diverse crowd, off the catwalk – with a front row filled with Australian icons like Elle Ferguson, Ada Nicodemou, and Kylie Gillies. Aspiring fashion students also joined the lineup of VIPs, embodying the brand’s commitment to supporting the next generation of fashion and beauty professionals.
Then, to conclude, South Korean-born Australian singer Dami Im serenaded attendees, her soulful performance exemplifying an evening dedicated to celebrating each woman’s worth.
Afterparty Adventures
The event’s hair and makeup team, led by L’Oreal Paris ANZ Partner Chantelle Baker and hair director Lisa Fulginiti, curated looks featuring the brand’s latest innovations. These included the Infallible Matte Resistance Lipstick in the shade “Worth It,” along with other skin care, hair care, and makeup essentials. With such vibrant styles, each woman on the runway became a living testament to beauty’s power as a means of self-expression and identity.
After the runway, the celebration continued with an afterparty featuring interactive beauty stations, photo ops, and a live DJ. As the sun set over the harbour, guests were left with a powerful takeaway: self-worth and empowerment transcend beauty, resonating with every individual on the runway and in the crowd. L’Oréal Paris’s first “Walk Your Worth” runway in Sydney wasn’t just a fashion event – it was a movement that brought women together to champion their inner strength and express their worth unapologetically.
As Jessica Fox said, the night was a reminder that beauty is as diverse as the women who walked the runway, each proudly embracing her own narrative.
