Joshua Bolen shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Joshua, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding a lot of joy in learning how to film and edit videos with the new camera I recently bought. It’s been a creative outlet that challenges me while also letting me capture moments in a new way.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Joshua Bolen, and I’m the Founder & Executive Director of Fashion Honors Autism (FHA) as well as a Positive Mindset Coach. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and have dedicated my work to blending creativity, advocacy, and empowerment.
Through FHA, I’ve created a unique program that combines sensory-friendly fashion workshops with our annual Black Tie Charity Fashion Show. Our participants youth with autism don’t just practice runway techniques, styling, and model posing. They also build confidence, self-expression, and interpersonal skills, creating an experience that celebrates their individuality. What makes FHA special is that it’s not only about fashion; it’s about giving every child the platform to shine while bringing families, communities, and designers together for a greater purpose.
Alongside my nonprofit work, I’m building my personal brand as a Positive Mindset Coach, where I share tools and strategies to help people overcome challenges, reshape their thinking, and create opportunities for success. I’m currently working on projects like a podcast and a book to further expand that mission.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I would say my grandfather, Bishop S.R. Chambers. From the stories my parents have shared and the pictures I’ve seen, I truly feel like he was preparing and inspiring me to one day become a great leader, just like him.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain and started using it as power when I founded Fashion Honors Autism. What began as my own struggles and desire to create space for those who often feel unseen turned into a mission to empower youth with autism. Transforming that pain into purpose not only gave me healing, but also allowed me to build a platform where others could shine with confidence and pride.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to taking my program, Fashion Honors Autism, global. No matter how long it takes, I believe the message of inclusion, empowerment, and giving youth with autism a platform to shine deserves to reach communities all around the world.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope the story people tell about me is how many lives I was able to inspire how I encouraged others to believe in themselves, embrace their gifts, and become the best version of who they were meant to be.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fashionhonorsautism.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fashionhonorsautism?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fashionhonorsautism?mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@fashionhonorsautism?si=J0ST2nYt7xU3yNi2
