Zola Blades: A Rising Talent in Events, Marketing, Communications, Photography and Acting
In recent years, the name Zola Blades has begun to attract growing attention across the United Kingdom. Known initially as the daughter of television personality Jay Blades, Zola has since carved her own path in events, marketing, communications, photography and the performing arts. Her journey reflects ambition, creativity and a determination to build a career that extends far beyond her father’s public profile.
This article explores her background, professional experiences, education, family connections, and future potential, offering an in-depth portrait of a young woman whose versatility sets her apart.
Family Background
Zola Blades Mother
Zola is the daughter of Jay Blades and his former wife, Jade. While her father rose to prominence as the face of The Repair Shop on the BBC, her mother has played a vital role in Zola’s early years. Growing up in a family linked to both creativity and resilience, Zola has benefitted from the guidance of her parents while also learning the importance of independence.
Jay Blades’ Daughter Zola
Although Jay Blades’ reputation in the world of restoration and television often draws public attention, he has always expressed deep pride in his daughter. From sharing milestones on social media to supporting her educational and career pursuits, Jay’s influence has been evident. However, Zola has deliberately stepped out of her father’s shadow, ensuring her own achievements take centre stage.
Age and Early Life
Zola was born in the mid-2000s, with reports confirming that she was 17 years old in 2023. This places her at around 18 to 19 years old in 2025. Her young age makes her growing portfolio all the more impressive. At a time when many are only beginning to consider their careers, Zola has already gained practical experience across multiple industries, setting a strong foundation for future success.
Education
Arts Educational Schools London
Zola’s formal training took place at the renowned Arts Educational Schools London, where she studied Acting and Photography between 2022 and 2024. This education gave her technical grounding in performance, visual creativity, and storytelling. Such a blend of subjects prepared her not only for the stage but also for fields like marketing, content creation and brand communications.
The discipline and artistry she gained during her studies continue to influence her professional approach, allowing her to combine practical skills with creativity.
Career Journey
Events – Marketing – Communications – Photography – Acting
Zola’s career is characterised by diversity. She has not confined herself to one path but instead explored a range of roles, each adding layers to her expertise. Her work spans live events, marketing campaigns, customer-facing roles, social media management, photography and acting.
This broad exposure demonstrates her adaptability and curiosity. By gaining first-hand experience in different industries, Zola is not only building her CV but also discovering how her varied talents intersect.
Professional Experience
Material Matters – Production Assistant and Event Assistant
In 2025, Zola began working as a Production Assistant at Material Matters, a role that allows her to contribute to event organisation and communications. Her responsibilities have included logistical support, venue management and visitor engagement.
Previously, in September 2024, she served as an Event Assistant at Material Matters, where she was part of a team responsible for setting up venues, welcoming guests and managing on-site activities. These experiences highlight her skill in organisation, customer service, communication and teamwork.
Bayley & Sage – Team Member
From October 2024 to February 2025, Zola worked at Bayley & Sage, a well-known food business in London. This role required her to manage cash registers, serve customers and operate in a fast-paced environment. The position strengthened her abilities in time management, multitasking and customer interaction, proving she could thrive under pressure while maintaining excellent service.
Designing Futures – Ad Hoc Project Assistant
Between May 2023 and February 2025, Zola contributed as an Ad Hoc Project Assistant at Designing Futures, a marketing consultancy. Here, she conducted in-depth research, supported event planning and worked on-site at various functions. The role gave her exposure to both the strategic and operational sides of marketing and events, combining analysis with practical delivery.
Jay & Co – Social Media Coordinator
From August 2022 to April 2024, Zola worked part-time for her father’s company, Jay & Co, as a Social Media Coordinator. She led the brand’s Instagram presence, creating content, scheduling posts, and nurturing community engagement. This role allowed her to apply her skills in photography, project planning, customer experience and marketing while strengthening the company’s brand image.
ACT ENGLISH – Actor
Earlier in her journey, between 2020 and 2022, Zola was involved in ACT ENGLISH, a theatre group in Istanbul, Türkiye. She took on a co-lead role in the first ticketed English play in the city, showcasing her abilities in acting, singing, dancing and performance. This early exposure to performing arts gave her confidence on stage and proved her capacity to collaborate creatively with others.
Skills and Competencies
Across her various roles, Zola has developed a strong skill set, including:
-
Customer Service and Teamwork – Gained from retail and event roles.
-
Organisation and Time Efficiency – Strengthened through events and hospitality.
-
Social Media and Marketing – Built during her time at Jay & Co.
-
Photography and Visual Storytelling – Enhanced through both education and practice.
-
Acting, Singing and Performance – Rooted in her ArtsEd training and theatre work.
-
Research and Analysis – Applied during projects with Designing Futures.
Looking Ahead
At just 18 or 19, Zola Blades has already amassed a wide range of experiences. Her work reflects a balance between creativity and professionalism, making her a versatile candidate for future opportunities in events, communications, performing arts and digital media.
While her father, Jay Blades, remains a household name, Zola is steadily building recognition in her own right. With her education complete and a series of strong early career roles behind her, she stands poised to make an impact in the cultural and creative industries of the UK.
Conclusion
The story of Zola Blades is one of ambition, exploration and self-determination. From her early beginnings as the daughter of Jay Blades to her education at ArtsEd and her professional roles in marketing, events and acting, she is crafting her own unique path. Her versatility across events, marketing, communications, photography and acting ensures she is well-positioned for success in multiple fields.
As she continues to develop her skills and gain experience, Zola exemplifies the new generation of multi-talented professionals who refuse to be confined by one career label. Instead, she embraces opportunities that allow her to merge creativity, communication and performance — building not just a career, but a legacy of her own.
