Meet the Team

The Fashion Palette team is passionate about providing an opportunity to help promote, support and nurture the Australian fashion industry.

Founder and Creative Director of Fashion Palette – Sonya Mefaddi
Set to change the face of Australian fashion and be one of the most influential fashion industry events in the world.

Graphic designer turned business tycoon Sonya Mefaddi is the visionary behind Fashion Palette; an Australian organisation which provides up-and-coming fashion designers and all Australians the opportunity to meet with and learn from some of the most successful fashion industry leaders and designers from around the world.

It was at a graphic design conference in 2007 where Mefaddi’s vision for Fashion Palette was born: “I saw Fashion Palette as an opportunity to combine my love for fashion with my passion to teach and inspire others by creating this unique, Australian first event for the fashion industry.”

Mefaddi has spent the past three years fusing the bolts of Fashion Palette: “I have dedicated a tremendous amount of time to see this project come to life. Getting started was the hardest part but it didn’t take long before the project gain so much momentum, there was no looking back – everything has just fallen into place.”

Sonya’s infectious enthusiasm for her dream and the industry has resulted in multiple  organisations, fashion brands and industry figureheads grasping at the chance to get on-board to help create this world first for the fashion industry.

Fashion Palette Relationship Manager – Sandie Mefaddi
Sandie is the eldest Mefaddi sister with her sights set on making it in the cut throat world of fashion. While working as a consultant in the travel industry, Sandie’s determination led her to create her own accessories line which acted as a gateway leading her to associate with the best in the industry. Sandies vivacious and charismatic nature fused with her ability to connect and relate with buyers, sales agents, designers and sponsors saw her become the Relationship Manager of Fashion Palette.

Fashion Palette Backstage Manager – Nancy Mefaddi
Nancy is the youngest sister in the Mefaddi trio and no stranger to the runway, Nancy’s years of experience as a hair stylist and make up artist have given her a sound knowledge of the high level organisational skills required for success of the runway. This knowledge combined with an exceptional eye for detail has seen Nancy live her dream as the Fashion Palette Backstage manager. Nancy consults with the hair and make up team and designers to make sure that the show is running on its strict schedule and ensuring a well managed showcase.

Partnership Manager – Elmedin Kumalic
Elmo (as we call him), first joined the Fashion Palette team in 2009 as an Event Assistant for the VIP party, It was Elmo’s sought after skills from experience in  event management for top night spots in Sydney working alongside internationally acclaimed performers, charities, television and media outlets that made Elmo a stand out choice for Partnership Manager. Elmo’s efficiency, people skills and reliability make him an asset to the team.

Event Coordinator – Joanne Hombsch
Growing up as a small town girl in rural South Australia, Joanne Hombsch moved to Sydney in 2010 to purse her dreams in Fashion managing a leading high street boutique. Her friendly and bubbly nature combined with her motivation and can-do attitude led Jo to the Fashion Palette team, Her natural sense of style and personable qualities have  seen Jo develop into a thriving fashion assistant in the Fashion Palette Team.

Assistant to Sonya Mefaddi – James Tawfik
Since graduating from one of New South Wales leading Fashion Colleges, James’ natural knack of style has led him to multiple fashion houses, PR agencies and commercial media outlets working alongside the industries most prominent figureheads, giving him the skills to be a stand out!  His quirky and charismatic nature combined with self motivation and people skills make him the perfect addition as the latest member of Fashion Palette.

Jess Wilson
The youngest and latest addition to the Fashion Palette team. Jess has gained experience studying Event Management at a top Sydney institute and working for noted event companies. Her vibrant personable manner and enthusiasm for the industry has made Jess a shining star.

PR Intern – Hannah Sullivan
Hannah has several years experience as a model, stylist and freelance editor. Working for Fashion Palette is a dream-come-true for Hannah, and her industry/ backstage and writing experience make her an ideal fit for the internship.  A natural perfectionist, Hannah is committed to delivering quality work while retaining creative flair, and she brings this attitude to her contribution to Fashion Palette

Fashion Palette Marketing Manager – Crystelle Topatan
Web programmers – Craig Bourke and Anthony Bourke