When a cosplayer does a character that isn’t in the limelight, it brings back lots of wonderful memories for us. This person caught my eye by posting such on Instagram. I am happy to introduce to you, cheheaven!
Please introduce yourself to the readers.
Hello my name is cheheaven. It is pronounced as “she” heaven. I work and go to school full-time. I cosplay for fun.
How would you define “cosplay”?
I look at cosplay as a form of art. To me it is expressing yourself through costumes, makeup and I often get to stay in character. Lol
What is your favorite part of it?
My favorite part of cosplay is the end result. I love to stay in character as the person or thing; sometimes I even go around town with them for reactions. Lol
What are your favorite and least favorite cosplays?
I love all my cosplays no matter how small. There are NONE I have done that I have disliked. I look at each as a learning experience.
Have you learned more about yourself since you began cosplaying?
Yes, I have learned my face shape and the type of skin I have. I have learned more about my body as well.
As a POC cosplayer have you experienced any challenges? How did you overcome these challenges?
Sometimes I worry about posting certain popular characters that aren’t my skin tone. I fear that I will receive negativity. But I end up posting them and I get rave reviews. It gives me the confidence to dress up as anyone regardless of their skin tone.
How would you encourage fellow POC to cosplay characters they love?
I tell that person not to be afraid to step out the box and challenge yourself. You’ll be surprised at the amount of love you receive.
What changes do you hope to see within the community in the future?
I hope that people aren’t bound to cosplaying who they resemble and cosplay who they love! I hope that cosplayers…regardless of size, skin tone or gender, get the appreciation they deserve.
Thank you so much cheheaven! If you want to see more of cheheaven, visit her Instagram.
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