Joshua Dixon: A Story of Resilience, Art, and Advocacy

Joshua Dixon is a 25-year-old fashion designer, published essayist, photographer, and motivational speaker based in Chicago, Illinois. Born and raised on the South Side, Joshua's journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art.

Early Life and a Life-Altering Event

Joshua's life changed dramatically on December 5, 2007, when he survived a brutal pit bull attack that resulted in the loss of 80% of his face. The attack left him with severe injuries, including the loss of both his upper and lower eyelids in his left eye, his ears, and significant tissue from his cheek and nose. Over the years, Joshua has undergone 61 surgeries, each one a step in his long and painful journey of physical and emotional recovery.

A New Identity and Passion

Despite the physical and emotional scars, Joshua found a new identity through his experiences. He became deeply passionate about art, particularly photography, which became a vital tool for him to express the pain and complexity of his journey. Photography allowed him to create a bridge between himself and others, fostering deep conversations about topics often left unspoken.

Joshua's passion for art led him to pursue formal education in photography. Despite facing challenges, including racism and ableism, he persisted and was accepted into top photography schools, eventually returning to Chicago to study at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Founding Admire Wear

In addition to his work as a photographer, Joshua channeled his experiences into the creation of his own apparel brand, Admire Wear. The brand centers on wellness and mental health, reflecting Joshua's commitment to helping others navigate their own journeys. The brand's name is a nod to the admiration he has for the resilience in himself and others who face life's challenges.

One of Joshua's most significant projects with Admire Wear is the #pinkypromise collection, launched in conjunction with Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This collection features minimalistic designs focused on bold typography and meaningful promises, encouraging individuals to hold on to hope, faith, and their commitments to loved ones.

Advocacy and Motivational Speaking

Joshua's story has made him a powerful advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. He regularly shares his story with his growing online following, offering hope and inspiration to others facing similar challenges. His authenticity and openness about his struggles with self-esteem, body dysmorphia, and the impact of toxic masculinity have resonated with many.

A Vision for the Future

Joshua Dixon continues to inspire others through his art, his brand, and his words. His work is a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable pain, there is beauty, strength, and the possibility of growth. As he moves forward, Joshua remains committed to promoting kindness, resilience, and the importance of mental health in everything he does.

Since partnering with TWLOHA in November. Admire Wear is committed to donating a minimum of 15% of its net profits. As of January 2023, I have donated over $3.7k and have raised $8,800 to help them save lives. We wouldn't be able to do it without your love and support.

"To Write Love on Her Arms is a nonprofit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery." - TWLOHA

During Admire Wear launch in September for Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. During this month, there were multiple fundraisers, and all net proceeds were donated to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, totaling over $1.6k donated.

Admire Wear is also committed to making donations to its community of Admires. I have donated over 850 products to people/ communities who may be impacted by a mental crisis or have initiatives similar to ours.

 Non-negotiable Values

I have developed five values that are non-negotiable that Admire Wear supports and believes in:

1. YOU ARE ENOUGH AND NOT ALONE

2. YOU ARE LOVED AND WILL BE FOREVER LOVED

3. IT'S OK TO FEEL HUMAN

4. TOGETHER, WE CAN CHOOSE LOVE OVER FEAR

5. YOUR LIFE IS MEANINGFUL AND IRREPLACEABLE; WE CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT YOU

You are not alone, you are needed, you are not a burden, your life is meaningful and you are loved endlessly regardless of your unique traits and characteristics.