To celebrate NAIDOC Week, YouTube Australia has released ‘Our Makeup‘, a First Nations-led content series featuring makeup artist Kaydee Kyle-Taylor. In the episodes, host Kyle-Taylor interviews stars Sherry-Lee Watson, Becca Hatch, and Cindy Rostron about their unique connections to culture and Country as she does their makeup. 

Created by Indigenous-owned agency Going North, the series explores the diverse lived experiences of the guests, including their professional and personal achievements. Model Rostron talks about her appearance on the cover of Vogue and the value of her work as a ranger in Maningrida. Watson, who stars in the hit Netflix series Heartbreak High, explores the significance of representation and taking up space as a woman of colour. Singer-songwriter Hatch talks about learning from strong female figures and the importance of music in her life. 

The power of storytelling

Going North director Nina Fitzgerald said storytelling has the power to “bridge cultural divides and celebrate the unique identities of First Nations’ people”. 

“‘Our Makeup’ is more than just a series; it’s a platform where authentic voices are amplified, and our rich heritage is honoured,” Fitzgerald said. “We are proud to collaborate with such talented creatives and showcase the vibrant spirit of our community alongside YouTube.”

To create the series, the Darwin-based agency ensured commitment to female representation both on and off screen. The roles of creative director, director of photography, editor, photographer and graphics package designer were all held by female creatives. Yolngu and Balanggarra artist and illustrator of the book This Book Thinks Ya Deadly, Molly Hunt, helped create the dynamic look and feel of the series. 

Representation matters

When speaking about the reason for partnering with the series, Google AUNZ’s head of consumer marketing apps and platforms Laura Pope reiterated Watson’s iconic line within the series, “if you can’t see it, you can’t be it.”

“Our mission at YouTube is to give everyone a voice and to show them the world,” Pope said. “In collaboration with Jack and Nina at Going North, we’re incredibly proud to share the stories of these incredible First Nations women with our audiences both here in Australia, and across the world.”

NAIDOC Week 2024 celebrations are held from 7 to 14 July. All episodes of ‘Our Makeup’ are now live and can be viewed here.

Photography is attributed to Going North.