We were lucky to catch up with DaMaris “Dashon Ellis” Lee recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi DaMaris “Dashon Ellis”, thanks for joining us today. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

Legacy…what a scary yet interesting topic to discuss. When I think about my legacy, I think about my late mother and her legacy she left with me. She was a business owner as well and she stood strong on her morals and rules. I carry the same amount of professionalism my mother had and I think this is why I’m currently proving people wrong and constantly moving forward. I want people to believe that you can do things the right way and lead your life with good intentions and kindness. You don’t have to compete with each other.

When I’m gone, I want people to know that elevation requires collaboration. Sometimes you may not want to work with that someone but if you put your personal issues aside and be respectful, professional, and kind you may gain a business partner.

I want to be remembered for putting in the work. Some people think this life comes so easily but it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. I want to be remember for loving what I do and loving the people I work with.

Overall, I think I want to be remembered for being a plus size black man in business. Knocking down barriers and creating my own lane for other behind me or next to be can come through and show you how creative and unique they are when giving the tools to succeed. I do what I do not only for me but for people like me to look at me and think, “I can do this too!”

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi, my name is Da’Maris and I am the founder of Ohio Models United. Ohio Models United is a community of model, photographers, designers, and other creatives that come together to create content and art for local businesses and brands. We offer Modeling Workshops to upcoming models who are interested in getting their feet wet in the industry and give them a feel for what a real modeling gig or model call might consist of.

A lot to models come to us and are very nervous, shy, or just have never modeled before. At the workshops, we give them a chance to be themselves and express who they are awhile networking with 2 local Model Coaches, Designers, and 2 Photographers.

Most Modeling Workshop only offer runway etiquette and teach you how to pose on the runway. With Ohio Models United, you get a full experience! We offer 2 photoshoots which includes headshots and a clothing brand shoot where the designer personally styles you. We have 2 Model Coaches come in to teach you how to model on and off the runway. They also help you with posing for the Photoshoots and are there to answer any questions you may have. We also have 2 Photographers who are capturing them throughout the whole workshop and the models receive digitals from their photoshoots. Lastly, to close out our workshops we have a local food sponsor come in and provide an array of food so our model can have a to-go box before they leave. These Modeling Workshops provide a very safe space and a great work environment to be in for new models.

If you or anyone you know is interested in modeling please visit our website at OhioModelsUnited.com and book your slot! You can also stay updated on Instagram @OhioModelsUnited

We have 4 more workshops for the year of 2023 but the next workshop will be August 26th in Akron, Ohio featuring Model Coaches Sariah Conethan & OEA Model of the Year 2022: Kylan Richburg

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building reputation within my industry is sometimes a little too easy. People are always being nosey and watching everything you do on social media. So I learned how to utilize social media to help me grow my business. I notice I get a lot of traction every-time I post about a new upcoming workshop or the content from a previous. People love to see what you up to so why not give them a show.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and maintaining morale is comes very easy to me because I’ve had positions in my work life where I had to be a leader. Managing my team for Ohio Models United each month is always a hit or miss. I have my team vote on days they want to have a meeting, the venue of the workshops, and other important components of my business. I make sure they are up to date with any new information and try not to leave them in the dark. So we normally have people on the team who are very excited to work with us and some people who just want recognition, which is fine too. That difference normally determines the work they put into the promotional period.

I explain at our meeting that we are solely doing this for the models that are interested in modeling. Personally, I like to think the models look up to the model coaches because they see them constantly working on social media.

My advice would be to keep everyone on one accord and make sure everyone understands why they are important and why your business is essential.

Contact Info:

• Website: OhioModelsUnited.com
• Instagram: @Dashon_Ellis @OhioModelsUnited