Originally published on Vmagazine.com

Ashton Sanders has had quite the whirlwind few years. From his 2016 portrayal of Teen Chiron in the Academy Award-winning film Moonlight to his recent role as Miles alongside Denzel Washington in Equalizer 2, the young actor is a rising icon in the film world. Along with his growing list of high-profile acting credits, Ashton is also beginning to enter the world of fashion. As one of the faces of the 7 For All Mankind Fall/Winter 2018 campaign, the young star is proving his talent in all creative arenas.

"My style is a reflection of myself, an extension of who I am as an artist," he says in the campaign video. "I am Ashton Sanders and I am mankind."

V Magazine chatted with Ashton Sanders to discuss his relationship with fashion and acting, his new campaign with 7 For All Mankind, and his role as Miles in Equalizer 2.

What has been your relationship with fashion growing up? How has it changed?

I always felt like it was another form of self-expression. I feel like I’m always evolving and growing. Never too stagnant. And the way I dress is one in the same.

Why does 7 For All Mankind stick out to you in particular as a brand?

Well, I think the brand represents something special. And they also just have really cool style. I am happy to be a part.

What was it like working with Denzel Washington in the Equalizer 2?

Denzel has been an actor I have looked up to my whole life, so it was surreal, you know? It was a great experience and was definitely something I won’t forget.

Can you describe your first few days on set?

Denzel was great! He just kind of reminded me to trust my instincts and what I was doing. Between him and Antoine’s encouragement, they both really helped me to settle in on set.

Can you tell us about your character Miles? How do you relate to him? How do you not?

Miles is a good kid who is kind of at a crossroad in his life. On one hand he has a good heart and genuinely cares, but on the other hand he is hanging with the wrong crowd. I think Robert McCall kind of helps him realize his potential as a human being and get him on the right path to succeed in life. I feel like Miles is like a lot of young men in the African American community who are good kids, but for whatever reason don’t have the proper role models or the right environment growing up around them to help from making the right and wrong choices in life.

Why do you think you got into acting?

I started acting as an outlet. It allowed me to step outside of myself and become a completely different person. I loved the rush.

Do you still feel like you have a lot to learn about your craft?

Definitely. I feel like I’m always growing and learning. There is alway room for growth, and improvement. Its important to understand that.

Check out photos from the 7 For All Mankind Fall/Winter Campaign Below!