WASHINGTON – Get ready to see Asher Nash’s face in upcoming ads – the opportunities are rolling in for the 15-month-old from Georgia.
Asher’s mother, Meagan Nash, brought his story to the forefront this month when an agency did not submit his photos for a Carter’s, Inc. casting, “because the criteria didn’t specify they were looking for a baby with special needs.”
Asher has Down syndrome, and Meagan saw the incident as a chance to champion the cause of inclusive advertising. Thousands took to social media to show their support for Asher, and the family landed a meeting with OshKosh B’Gosh.
“The meeting went amazing,” Meagan wrote in an email to WTOP. “We met with the CEO and several other people in various departments. It was such a great experience meeting with them.”
She said she was nervous going into the meeting because the outcome was unclear, but Asher had no problem with nerves.
“Asher was just himself. He waved with both hands in the air and smiled at everyone when we walked in the doors,” Meagan said.
She said the company initially invited Asher to come back and shoot photos for spring and summer campaigns, but OshKosh has since called and asked Asher to come in for a holiday ad.
Meagan said she isn’t sure what type of holiday ad Asher will appear in just yet, but new opportunities have popped up since that meeting. The family was contacted by an Atlanta company, Kids II, and the camera-loving toddler has already done two photo shoots.
The family has also been contacted by Toys “R” Us a few other companies. Meagan said some of the opportunities include Asher’s big sister, 8-year-old Addison, who she said is excited for what’s to come.
“My long term goal is for all brands that do not use people with disabilities to make the change and include them,” Meagan said.
In a statement shared by the family, Kids II wrote:
“Kids II is committed to making bright futures possible for families everywhere. We embrace championing and designing our products for real, everyday families – and that includes families with special needs children. Therefore, Asher was the perfect model for our Oball photo-shoot – the joy and realness he brings shines through in every photo. We are honored to include Asher in our Kids II family.”
To keep up with Asher’s adventures, check out his Facebook page.
