Meet Joshua Bolen | Founder and Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Joshua Bolen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joshua, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My journey from overcoming learning disabilities, ADHD, and a speech impediment to pursuing a successful modeling career has been transformative. Modeling not only boosted my confidence and helped me connect with others, but it also pushed me out of my comfort zone, creating personal growth.

The idea for Fashion Honors Autism (FHA) came from my desire to merge my passions for helping people and modeling. Recognizing how modeling had empowered me, I envisioned introducing these skills to children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder early on. I believed that by learning these skills, they could sharpen their decision-making abilities and unlock their full potential.

My decision to start FHA was driven by my own journey of self-discovery and empowerment. I aimed to create a supportive space where individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder could feel valued and celebrated for their unique abilities. Drawing from my own experiences and passions, I aspired to make a positive impact in the lives of others facing similar challenges.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Overview: Fashion Honors Autism (FHA) is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. It is dedicated to mentoring children and teens diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). FHA achieves this by leveraging the realm of fashion to break barriers and challenge stereotypes often faced by individuals with ASD.

Through collaborative partnerships within the fashion community, FHA hosts innovative and distinctive sensory fashion workshops. These workshops are tailored to instruct children and teens with autism in various facets of the fashion industry, encompassing runway techniques, model posing, fashion styling, and facial expressions.

FHA matches individuals diagnosed with Autism with skilled fashion model mentors. Together, these mentees and their mentors actively engage in sensory-friendly fashion workshops, honing modeling skills, mastering runway walks, and improving public speaking abilities. Additionally, the program places significant emphasis on fostering interpersonal skills such as effective communication, building confidence, and nurturing meaningful friendships.

FHA concludes the mentorship and training with an impactful charity fundraiser and fashion show, where the mentees showcase their newly acquired skills on the runway. This Charity Fashion Show serves as an empowering event, not only for the participants with autism but also for the community.

Mission:
The mission of Fashion Honors Autism is to empower the way children and teens live with ASD; to break ASD barriers and stereotypes youth diagnosed with the disorder experience; to provide a positive environment for participants to feel confident and build social skills; and to provide a unique avenue through fashion to raise awareness of ASD.

How did you get to where you are today business-wise?
I’ve reached my current business position by learning from failures, taking action, and seeking guidance from experts who’ve crossed my path. Each setback taught me valuable lessons, and with every step, I’ve grown and advanced in the business world.

Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?
I wouldn’t say it was easy, especially when it came to raising funds to continue the vision. However, we’ve persevered year after year. I believe that when you’re following your life’s path, things tend to become a bit easier. That’s not to say there won’t be challenges and hurdles along the way, but somehow, things eventually fall into place.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
Act fast. For instance, when an email or phone call requires your attention, address it right away.
When you’re passionately serving others and focusing on helping, the financial support you are asking for will come.
Building a strong foundation takes time. Practice patience and perseverance to see it through.
At times, your motivation and desire to continue may get shaking, so surround yourself with supportive individuals who can provide stability and be able to motivate you.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I want the world to understand that no matter the challenges life throws your way, it’s important to maintain unwavering belief and determination to achieve your dreams.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Randy’s Donuts Beverly Hills
Hollywood
The Grove
Griffith Observatory
Santa Monica Beach
In-N-Out Burger

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a huge shoutout to my incredible team who have been by my side since the beginning, inspiring and motivating me each year to continue on this journey. Special thanks to Mariah, Eliza, Toni, Destony, Keyonna, Kyle, Lindsey, Jenni, and Nicole.

A big shoutout also goes to my modeling agency, Exposure Model and Talent, for believing in me, giving me opportunities, and pushing me to become better. It’s because of their support that I was able to conceive the idea of Fashion Honors Autism.

I want to express my gratitude to the entire autism and fashion community for trusting in the process of our workshops and the charity fashion show. A special shoutout to all the model mentors who have generously volunteered their time to empower children and teens on the autism spectrum.

And lastly, a heartfelt thank you to all our sponsors who have supported us in the past: Kingdom Studios, Josue Dapper, Samantha Levi, Latino, Charles Schwab, Nueterra Capital, Crips Cuts & Styles, Behavioral Health Holdings, Deloitte, Brand 360, Sagii International, Kansas City Fashion, Noble Nation Records, State Farn, Southland Tow, Zen Business, Inspire Studios, 94 West Design, Building Hope For Autism, Inspire Studios, Loomis, Heartland International Fashion Week. Your support has been invaluable in helping us make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Website: https://fashionhonorsautism.com/

Instagram: @fashionhonorsautism

Twitter: @autismhonors

Facebook: @fashionhonorsautism

Youtube: @fashionhonorsautism

Other: TikTok: @fashionhonorsautism

Image Credits
Kevin House IG: @kevprime