TASHA BLEU FOR ON HOLDING AG
GLOBAL HEALING + RECONNECTING
Drone Deliveries for #OnRunning
Photos of Model Dora Owusu of Doves of Dawn by Tasha Bleu
“From creativity to communities, the pandemic has touched about every aspect of our lives. Photographer and philanthropist Tasha Bleu tells us about the opportunities to shape a new normal instead of the one we had before.
“This global pandemic has changed the world completely and differently abled talents cannot be left behind. We have to highlight all the gifts this community has, appreciate them and let them show us their wonderful personalities and abilities.”
“Last time we caught up with Tasha Bleu, she told us how the current situation has changed her creative process, how she managed to stay creative and inspired in new and different ways – and how she taught herself to turn challenges into opportunities. As a result, the LA-based photographer, producer and philanthropist has grown in more ways than one.
On: When we spoke to you in 2020, you mentioned how you’d been teaching virtual classes to girls with an interest in photography and drones. Is this still ongoing? TB: Absolutely! It keeps getting better by the day as these girls are truly amazing. I have a large network of learners in my virtual classes. I also teach young girls the business side of photography. I want them to grow into their full potential and I love to see them advance. That’s my never-ending life mission.
On: What new production strategies have you had to use during lockdown? TB: These days there are a lot more risks involved with every production. I have to restrict the need to work with talents who need to travel long distances. Instead, I go to their homes and set up studios outside to accommodate their needs and avoid any potential issues with moving between production locations. The bright side is that I am better able to connect with the models – they can show me around their favorite spots in their area.
On: Are there learnings you can share with other creatives who may be feeling challenged during this pandemic? TB: Life has definitely become more valuable in my eyes. I have learned to be more thoughtful when it comes to accommodating people, considering their feelings and needs. We have to go through this difficult time together, so the best we can do is to make sure this time is as pleasant and beautiful as possible for everybody.
On: Is that also a reason why highlighting representation is so important in your work? TB: I think the youth need to see hardworking and inspiring women from all walks of life shining their lights. That’s the main reason I believe that highlighting representation is important. I would love to see it as a living part of my legacy, and I will continue to highlight black girl entrepreneurs and black disabled hikers.
On: Why are you drawn to amplifying disability among models and talents? TB: All body types matter and seated body types are often overlooked. I strongly believe disabled talents need to be heard and seen just like everyone else. That’s why I offer my platform as a voice for them and for spreading values and love.
On: What is your wish for how society receives the adaptive community? TB: I wish society would receive the adaptive community as an integral and vivid part of their own community. We need to serve and help each other in order to keep shaping the world as a better place for all of us. Anyone can go through an unexpected traumatic experience at any time of their lives and the women I work with did not let their experiences stop them from pursuing their dreams.
On: Is that why the 3D-printed prosthetics industry became an interest of yours? TB: Yes, I have been learning so much about the 3D-printed construction industry and 3D-printed prosthetics industry. It’s very interesting to see how they correlate.
On: Do you have a goal for how to use your new knowledge? TB: I’m currently helping Thinking Huts, the world’s first 3D-printed school, raise funding in Madagascar. We will send children to schools from several local villages, creating a safe space for girls, and wheelchair accessible huts.
On: Speaking of helping others, tell us about your partnership around the Cloudnova Wrap. How did it go? TB: First of all, it’s a wonderful opportunity to spread the values our world needs. Those who saw my last On feature know that I’m extremely passionate about diversity and disability. I’m always using my platform as a voice for those who are overwhelmed and remind the women out there to keep shining, keep flourishing and keep pushing – even in the midst of adversity and in the darkest of times. They never forget that airplanes fly high when they keep moving with the wind against them.
On: What about the women you chose to gift the Cloudnova Wrap to. How do they inspire you? TB: The women I chose for the Cloudnova Wrap gift are true fighters, dedicated entrepreneurs and storytellers in my community. They reminded everyone during our lockdown to remain human, to have empathy, to stay humble, and to connect with others – even from a distance. They are my inspiration as well as the inspiration of their communities. I decided to amplify their stories.
Want to find out more about the women Tasha gifted the all-new Cloudnova Wrap to? Follow their stories:
Dora Owusu/@doraowusu
• Founder of @dovesofdawn
• Otto Models OC • Stars Management SF • Startouch Agency
Chelsea VonChaz/@chelseavonchaz
• Stylist turned founder of @wearehappyperiod
• Board member of @periodequity
• Consultant, advocate for black led non-profits
Alyssa Forever/@foreverflawlyss
• Pure soul and Top Youtube creator of videos that bring awareness to mental health
