Gab Titui hosts Athe Threads: A cultural fashion pop-up

Left to right: Athe Threads team Marnie Hampton and Josh Fauid with featured model and local work experience support, Kunio Sagigi.

In April, Waiben (Thursday Island) community raced to the Gab Titui Cultural Centre to get their hands on Athe Threads apparel and meet the founders.

The First Nations fashion brand is known for blending contemporary streetwear with deep cultural meaning, reflecting the unique stories and identity of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait). From bold prints to statement accessories, including the Hamiso line, the pop-up offered community a chance to explore their wide product range.

Founder Josh Fauid said the event was another huge success for the growing business, and thanked community for their ongoing support.

“This is home for us and Athe Threads was built with our roots in mind, to represent who we are as Torres Strait Islander people and to inspire others, especially the younger ones coming up,” Mr Fauid said.

“Every time we come back, we make sure our presence makes a positive impact.

“It’s about building confidence, creating pride, and stopping that shame business,” he said.

This visit featured the launch of their Gelzal collection, including a youth photoshoot to model the new designs in the women’s line – a response to strong demand from female customers.

“Our clothes have always been unisex, but this exclusive line is about celebrating our women and giving them the space to shine,” he said.

Gab Titui Retail Officer Tyra Ware said the Athe Threads pop-ups were well received by community and the Centre would continue to collaborate with stockists to ensure community access to First Nations products and services.

“It’s great to see our stockists like Athe Threads here at the Centre and connecting with community,” Ms Ware said.

“For those who missed out on the pop-up shop experience, come and visit Gab Titui as we have an Athe Threads range.”

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson George Nona congratulated Athe Threads on their success and encouraged other First Nations creative businesses to explore similar opportunities.

“Gab Titui is a cultural keeping place first and foremost, but it is also a platform to promote yumi artists and cultural and creative businesses like Athe Threads,” Mr Nona said.

“We encourage First Nations creative businesses and stockists to take advantage of these platforms to showcase and sell their products and services.”

With plans already in motion to return during the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival in September, Athe Threads continues to expand its reach, while staying grounded in community and culture.

For stockist enquiries or to discuss future pop-up opportunities, contact the Gab Titui Cultural Centre team via CAHTeam@tsra.gov.au or contact 07 4069 0888 for more information.