Meet Nicky Posley

We recently connected with Nicky Posley and have shared our conversation below.

Nicky, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?

My resilience comes from hard knocks, really. I didn’t choose an easy career path, or take the easy route in terms of my beliefs and integrity. I remind myself that at any given moment, I’m living something I once prayed for, something my ancestors fought and died for.

Gratitude, has to be present to get through this journey, so I try to stay focused on my possibilities, and not the limitations others might place on my story. When I began my journey as an artist, I didn’t have any immediate examples to follow, so I had to be my own coach and cheerleader, until it became real. I love what I do, and the fact that my hands, and my vision help people to live in the fullness of their purpose.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m basically a fine artist who fell in love with makeup. I began this journey painting, drawing and doing gallery shows. I thought this would be my career, but through a friend who is a hairstylist, I was exposed to the world of working beauty professionals. I was immediately drawn in and enamored with the art it entailed, and the power of transformation.

When we feel good about our outer presentation, we walk differently, stand taller, and interact with the world around us in a more potent way. In my work I get to help people celebrate who they are and their best moments. Fine art led to makeup, makeup led to me becoming a global educator, and cosmetic product development consultant. It’s been a wild ride with plenty of twists and turns, but I lean into what I’m. passionate about.

Whether working with the everyday woman/man for their special occasions, getting a celebrity ready for a press day, or television appearance, or training another makeup artist, I enjoy the process.
It’s also an honor to now be sought by cosmetic brands to consult about product launches, specifically products that speak to global complexion. Black women spend exponentially more than general market consumers, but have traditionally struggled to find proper tones in complexion and color products. I’m happy to be able to use my voice and experience to move the conversation forward, in a way that honors who we are, and the dollars we spend.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Persistence had played a big part in my journey. You have to keep showing up, even if the world can’t see the vision you hold for yourself. Nothing can stop an idea who’s time has come.

Consistency is how you demonstrate seriousness about your aspirations. I’ve always been aware that I have to be the first and best example of who and what I say I am, or no one will take me seriously. If I’m not willing to put some skin in, I can’t ask anyone else to stick their neck out for me.

In terms of the actual skill one is passionate about, I say become so good at what you do, that you become undeniable. Often times it’s show and prove, and strangers are often your biggest supporters initially. I’m lucky to have a family that truly believes in me, but that’s not always the case for everyone. Find your tribe, wherever they may be, because there will be struggle along the way. I’ve struggled a lot in pursuit of my vision, but I find a way to get back on my feet when knocked down, and I get up stronger.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

There have been many, but I’ll share two of them here. The first one is “Fine Beauty” which is a makeup book by the legendary Sam Fine, who dedicated his career to beautifying black women, and pioneering techniques for that.
It’s remained a beauty bible for makeup artists of all walks and skill levels for over 2 decades. His amazing artistry and example inspired me to become the artist I am today. The book speaks to a lot of the techniques that anyone can use to put their best face forward, basics and beyond. The visibility of him as another black man, living in his gift and thriving was pivotal for me.

Another book I really appreciate is Lisa Nichols ” No Matter What” In it she shares her journey to becoming a transformational life coach, author and entrepreneur. The most valuable thing I’ve learned from her writings is that sometimes what looks and feels like a life break-down can be the beginning of a break through. It’s full of so many gems!

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