Morgan of the Leaf Interview: Dream Con 2025

Morgan of the Leaf, Cosplayer

Morgan of the Leaf is a cosplayer known for bringing anime characters to life with creativity and heart. We talked all things cosplay, embracing your inner nerd, and what it means to show up as your full, authentic self in a world that’s finally catching up.

Interview and photographs by Asa Featherstone, IV

Can you tell me about today’s cosplay?

Today I’m dressed up as Sasuke from Naruto. I like to think of him as the second main character of the show.

How do you decide which characters you want to do?

It depends on how I'm feeling. Sometimes I want to be a feminine character, other times an evil one. This Sasuke outfit hits hard emotionally because of all the memories tied to that specific arc in Naruto.

What got you into cosplay?

I’ve always had a passion for dressing up as anime characters. Back in middle school, I made these ghetto homemade cosplays—ninja headbands, gloves—with my friend Cashmere. We loved it. I didn’t know then that cosplay could be a real hobby or even a career. Once I had adult money, I could invest in it more and become an example—not just for adults, but for kids too.

That’s amazing. I read you cosplay to encourage others to embrace their authenticity—is that right?

Absolutely.

Was there someone who helped you embrace your own authenticity?

My friends! I love them for letting me be my nerdy self. And also, seeing other prominent cosplayers helped. CutiePieSensei was the first Black female cosplayer I found out about. RDCWorld, too. They showed me you can be proud of your nerdy interests.

Speaking of RDC, how long have you been coming to Dream Con, and how has your relationship with it grown?

This is my fourth year, but my first time here as a creator. I’m more involved than ever—I’ve got a fireside chat, I’m commentating a dodgeball game, and I’m making content. Dream Con has opened so many doors for me. I’ve grown with it, and I’m grateful.

In the spirit of Dream Con, what’s a dream project of yours?

I’ll give you two—dream project and dream cosplay. I’d love to do a duo cosplay with Megan Thee Stallion. She’s a big anime fan, and I love collaborating with creators at all levels. A dream collab would be a mashup like Samurai x Totally Spies. And solo, I’d love to cosplay Edward Elric from Fullmetal Alchemist. I’m trying to improve at making props and his metal arm would be a good challenge.

Love it. Any words of encouragement for folks wanting to enter the creative space?

Just start. You don’t have to wait for a fancy camera or a certain follower count. Be confident. Don’t worry what people think—once your content is out there, it’ll find its audience. Throw your worries in the trash and learn as you go.

You’re speaking wisdom right now! Thanks for chatting this weekend.

Thank you.