If anyone embodies what it means to be a glamazon, it’s Amazon Ashley.
The self-described “Queen of the Amazons” stands tall at a gorgeous 6 foot 7, and she’s used it to her advantage throughout her career as a burlesque dancer – a career that’s seen her become friends with none other than Miley Cyrus. The two went on tour together in 2014, and earlier this year reunited in Miley’s music video for female-empowerment anthem Mother’s Daughter alongside a lineup of inspiring faces including Aaron Philip, Little Miss Flint and An Acting Angel.
Despite being an icon to those who know her, the world-at-large still knows little about the person behind Amazon Ashley. We sat down for a kiki with the performer to find out more, including her biggest inspirations in life, where she gets her confidence from, and how she ended up quite literally partying in the USA with Miley.
How would you describe who Amazon Ashley is?
Amazon Ashley is definitely a free spirit. I like walking to the beat of my own drum. I’m the youngest of five children. I have three brothers and one sister – a lawyer, a marine, a doctor and a police officer. Sometimes I felt overshadowed by my siblings, so I knew I’d have to blaze my own trail.
Where does your fun and exciting personality come from?
I definitely take after my dearly departed mother, Margaret Theresa. She was so innovative, loving, talented and creative – and with a remarkable sense of humor! She instilled such confidence in me. I’m the woman I am today because of her.
What or who inspires you most in life?
My biggest inspiration is love: a love of laughter and life, and a love of my friends and family. I’m a Leo and therefore extremely loving and nurturing. I believe you get what you give in life, so I’m constantly trying to put all the love out there in hopes I get a little in return.
Your photoshoot with Vijat is amazing and we love how confident you are. What’s your best advice for people who want to become as confident as you?
Confidence is something that grows inside you. You have to love the skin you’re in – every inch of it! Walk in your own truth. You get to a point in life where you have to do whatever it is that makes you happy, hold your head up high and know that there is no one on earth like you. You are God’s unique creation. Embrace everything that is you.
You have a long history of working with Miley Cyrus – how did you two meet?
I’m so blessed to call Miley my friend. We met at a really hot nightclub in Hollywood called Beacher’s Madhouse. I was performing there and I remember when those velvet curtains opened up and I saw Miley in the audience I felt like my prayers had been answered. My destiny was right there. Traveling the world and working with Miley had been the highlight of my artistic experience. I still have to pinch myself sometimes… she made my dreams come true.
How important is it to have people like Miley as a voice for the LGBTQ community?
Miley is so caring and insightfully talented and loving. The LGBTQ community is lucky to have her as an ally. She uses her music to inspire and uplift, and the world would certainly be a more dull place with her absence.
Trans people are facing heavy discrimination under Trump’s America right now. What is your message to trans people who are struggling?
My message to trans people would be to keep fighting for your right to live, love and exist. Transitioning isn’t easy, but anything worth it rarely is. It’s like a caterpillar metamorphosing into a butterfly – now your wings take flight and you can soar.
Photographer & Creative Direction Vijat Mohindra
Stylist Bradley McPeek
Hair Evanie Frausto
Make-up Nicky Andrea
Props / Set Design Vijat Mohindra
Set Builder Mike Pierce
Producer Leah Blewitt
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