Minnie-May has been recognised as a finalist in The Pick: 2017, a Northland business challenge co-ordinated by The Orchard Business and Events Hub.
She said it was exciting to be recognised for something that was initially just a hobby.
"I've always had a passion for designing and creating clothes for myself," she said.
"As a student I didn't have much money for fabrics so I looked to second-hand shops for a cheaper option."
When friends and family started requesting their own garments, Minnie-May started to think of her designs as a viable business option.
She left her business degree to pursue a bachelor of design and the rest is history.
Minnie May said fashion design was more than drawing designs and creating them yourself.
"It's a way of telling your story through your artwork... I work in a way where I don't know what I'm making until I have the material in front of me. I look at the texture, colour, fabric then I figure out what I can do with that particular material."
Minnie-Mayd Clothing will feature one-off, unique designs made from recycled fabric. The designs will be showcased at one of the stands in the InnoNative markets.
The InnoNative markets, sponsored by He Puna Marama Trust, will be an opportunity for Maori business owners and social enterprises to showcase their products and services.
The markets will be held along Reyburn Lane from 10am-2pm on October 28.
Registration for stall holders is still open, contact a.ruka@mokonz.co.nz.
For more information visit www.facebook.com/innonativemarket .
