If there’s one thing I’ve learned in over 25 years in business, it’s that opportunity doesn’t always show up with a neon sign saying “This is it!”
Sometimes, it looks like an email you’re not sure you’re ready for.
Sometimes, it’s an application that makes you question if you’re good enough yet.
And sometimes… it’s the chance that changes everything.
One of the biggest opportunities that shaped my career was saying yes to a trade show called Life Instyle nearly two decades ago.
Back then, my sister and I had just launched our children’s wear brand, Moppit. It was a streetwear label for babies and kids that eventually grew to include teens. We were scrappy, passionate, and learning everything the hard way. But what we lacked in experience, we made up for in drive.
Our first trade show was Fashion Exposed — and to be honest, it wasn’t quite the right fit. There weren’t many other kids’ brands there, and we quickly realised we needed a better platform. Around that time, a new show called Life Instyle had launched, and after attending, we joined forces with a few industry friends and approached the founders with an idea:
“What if there was a Kids section?”
And just like that, Kids Instyle was born.
That moment changed everything — not just for our brand, but for hundreds of other small businesses that came after.
From Exhibitor to Educator to Judge
Fast forward 20 years, and my relationship with Life Instyle has come full circle.
I’ve been there as an exhibitor, a buyer, a speaker, an educator, a sponsor, and now — a judge for the Life Instyle New Breed Scholarship.
I’ve seen firsthand how opportunities like this can completely transform a brand.
The exposure. The connections. The confidence that comes from stepping into the spotlight and saying, “Yes, I belong here.”
The New Breed Scholarship gives emerging brands the chance to exhibit at Life Instyle Sydney with a prize package worth over $10,000 — including mentorship, marketing exposure, and the chance to connect with Australia’s top retailers.
Previous winners like Karina Jambrak, The Little Potion Co., Togo Sun, and Ficifolia have all used this platform to build incredible wholesale partnerships and grow nationally.
Why You Should Apply (Even If You Don’t Feel Ready)
Here’s the truth: none of these winners felt “ready.”
They applied anyway.
One of my favourite examples is The Little Potion Co. They applied three times before they won — and now they’re stocked in stores around the world and have built an incredible brand. Last year they were on Shark Tank and had hit over $2 million dollars in revenue!
Even going through the application process can be transformational. It forces you to clarify your story, assess your brand presentation, and spot the gaps in your business that might be holding you back.
You’ll start to see your brand through the eyes of a buyer and that perspective alone is priceless.
What the Judges Are Looking For
After years of judging, I can tell you this:
It’s not just about having a pretty product.
We’re looking for creativity, innovation, and market readiness.
We want to see that you’ve thought about your pricing, packaging, and how your product fits into the retail landscape.
And yes, your story matters.
Your “why” is what connects people to your brand.
We’ve had judges from brands like Fox & Fellow, Kollab, Rino Rhino, and The Lifestyle Edit — all bringing a unique perspective on what makes a brand stand out.
Don’t Miss Your Moment
Applications for the 2026 Life Instyle New Breed Scholarship close on October 16th.
If you’re an Australian or New Zealand brand that’s been in business for less than three years and has never exhibited at Life Instyle before, this is your chance.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start.
Because the truth is, someone will win – so why not you?
Beyond This Scholarship: Keep Your Eyes Open
Even if you’re not eligible this time, stay alert for other opportunities.
Government and local council grants can help fund things like websites, export shows, or new product development.
My sister and I once received a $30,000 government grant that covered our website, something that seemed impossible at the time. That single step opened up doors to international trade shows in New York and beyond.
The lesson?
Opportunities aren’t just luck. They’re leverage, if you choose to take them.
So go apply. Enter the awards. Pitch yourself. Ask the question.
You never know where it might lead.
And if you need help getting your brand wholesale-ready or refining your business foundations, my Transform Your Wholesale program and Roadmap to Profit framework are designed to help you do exactly that.
Because the biggest difference between brands that stay small and those that grow?
They take the chance.
Even before they feel ready.
👉 Apply for the Life Instyle New Breed Scholarship before October 16th 2025
👉 Tag @thelotco on Instagram if you apply — I’ll be cheering you on!
👉 Need help getting wholesale-ready? Join my free training at thelotco.com/buildingawholesalesalemachine
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