AFLW Cats player Mikayla Bowen is channeling her passion for mental health and resilience into a new venture—her streetwear label, Boxes by Bowen. The brand, born during the challenging COVID years, not only reflects her personal journey but also serves as a platform to encourage open conversations around mental wellbeing.
Bowen credits the label’s origin to a difficult period in her life when she found solace in drawing and designing—an activity unfamiliar to her but calming during a low point. “I remember writing something down — it was probably how I felt then — ‘Put me in a box, see what happens.’ I felt confined by my own journey,” she shared.
That concept of “being put in a box” soon evolved into a broader conversation starter, inviting others to reflect on their own experiences. “I wanted the hoodies to be more than just clothing. I want to connect with people and understand what those boxes mean for everyone,” Bowen said. “It’s about kindness, listening, and empathy.”
After moving from Perth to Geelong in 2022, Bowen embraced a new chapter both on and off the field. Despite the challenges, she feels grateful for the opportunity to advance her football career with the Cats. Her initial interest in football was sparked by rebellion—shifting away from ballet, a sport she didn’t enjoy as a child. She fell in love with the game’s physicality and community, saying, “Nothing hit me like footy did. I love the tackles and the supportive atmosphere.”
Although her relocation temporarily paused the clothing label, Boxes by Bowen relaunched 18 months ago with renewed momentum. Bowen has been inspired by the meaningful discussions the brand has sparked. Her designs, often featuring motivational words and phrases, aim to encourage openness and self-expression, despite her own admitted uncertainty about being “creative.”
“I’m just trying, leaning into what I love, and hoping to share that story to inspire others,” she said.
Understanding the difficulty in opening up, Bowen hopes each piece of clothing can act as a comforting reminder. “I want people to feel hugged by my hoodies,” she explained. One recent design, “Comfortably Uncomfortable,” emerged from conversations among Bowen and her teammates during a tough season. It symbolizes embracing discomfort to grow stronger.
The Geelong players have been especially supportive, often wearing the label around the club. Bowen plans to continue growing Boxes by Bowen gradually, balancing it with her other commitments. Upcoming collaborations with local businesses and new designs like “The art of staying present” are in the pipeline.
Ultimately, Bowen wants the brand to stay true to its mission: “To convey a message more than just grow a business. We need to speak more openly. I’ve struggled with that myself, so if I can help make it easier for others, that’s what Boxes is about. Speak, cry, make mistakes—learn and be kind, because you never know what someone else is going through.”
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