Leading by example through positivity and acceptance.

The Cosplay Senpai Program handpicks Cosplayers who have shown community support and outreach through positivity both at conventions and in the online world. They are invited to come and promote fun, passion, and acceptance within the cosplay community through panels and discussions. The Cosplay Senpai are always open to answering questions, giving advice, and talking with attendees; they can be found in the Entertainment Hall. Anime Expo advocates for the idea that cosplay is for everyone -- no matter your race, faith, gender, sexuality, identity, age, or level of experience. Cosplay is all about having fun! The Cosplay Senpai help support our mission to promote the message that anyone and everyone can cosplay.

To do this, the AX Cosplay Senpai are expected to:

• Give back to the community by providing tutorials or other resources.
• Promote positivity online through meaningful dialogue about a variety of topics.
• Actively engage with the cosplay community in-person and online.
• Maintain a family-friendly feel with their representation through photos and content that would be comparable to a PG rating.

Applications Now Closedw

Deadline to Apply: February 6, 2023

Apply Now

Examples of Past Panels

Cosplay Careers & More! w/ Aicosu

Are you considering a job related to Cosplay and Conventions? Come and talk to cosplayers in diverse fields (wardrobe assistant, social media, voice acting). To talk about how to break into the work force with your special skill, what the industry is like, how to make a resume and why your skills are valuable!

C3 Discusses Diversity in the Geek Community

We are a group of African American women dedicated to promoting the freedom of cosplay by showcasing and empowering all the gamer/nerd/geek/cosplayer within us all. We welcome all fans, girls and guys of different backgrounds to come meet the lovely ladies of Chocolate Covered Cosplay for an open and honest dialogue on con culture and see what the ladies of C3 are all about!

Cosplay Senpai Panel

The art of building a Cosplay following can be daunting. But have no fear, for your Senpai are here! Come join our fantastic Cosplay Senpai to learn about establishing your social media presence as a Cosplayer and more!

Cosplay Makeup 101 w/ Aicosu

From foundation to contacts and wig care to fake beards, come and learn all about makeup! We will cover the basics of learning about powders and pencils and then teach you how to transform into characters with special effect techniques! A live demonstration and Q&A included!