Celebrating culture and creativity: NAAKPA’s cosmetic workshops in Wadeye

In 2024, the Northern Australia Aboriginal Kakadu Plum Alliance (NAAKPA) hosted cosmetic workshops at the Wadeye Women’s Centre and Thamarrurr Youth, blending culture, creativity and sustainability. Supported by Vanessa Megan Cosmetics, participants crafted moisturisers and lip balms, exploring the potential of native ingredients like the Kakadu Plum (Mi Marrarl).

The workshops introduced techniques for creating plant-based extracts, linking traditional knowledge with modern practices. This highlighted the value of wild harvesting, circular agriculture, and local resources in producing high-quality, sustainable products.

For the women and youth of Wadeye, the experience sparked pride and inspiration, demonstrating how cultural heritage and natural materials could lead to innovation and enterprise. NAAKPA’s initiative celebrated the land’s beauty while encouraging the community to reimagine its possibilities.


Wadeye Women’s Centre and Thamarrurr Youth participants learning cosmetic formulation basics.
Wadeye Women’s Centre and Thamarrurr Youth participants learning cosmetic formulation basics.

Wadeye Women’s Centre and Thamarrurr Youth participants trying products
Wadeye Women’s Centre and Thamarrurr Youth participants trying products.

Wadeye Women’s Centre and Thamarrurr Youth weighing shea butter
Wadeye Women’s Centre and Thamarrurr Youth weighing shea butter.