We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nyjerah Cunningham a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Nyjerah, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Keeping my creativity alive is of utmost importance. I feel the most alive when I’m at peace and connected through my mind, body, and soul. Sometimes I get lost in creating that I forget that taking breaks is just as important. Practices like yoga and meditation really help to clear my mind from any creative blocks.
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’ve been in the fashion industry for 10+ years. I started in public relations and made my way to styling. I am now a freelance creative director and stylist working with multiple brands and individuals, helping them build their image. It’s my job to inspire my clients through style and help bring their vision to life.
I also have a small business: NEED.ED (by Nyjerah Nicole), a collection of pre-loved, statement essentials. It’s an intentional way of shopping thrift, especially for people like me who shy away from the vintage aesthetic and appreciate affordable basics that make a statement and pair well with almost everything. I’m online at neededcollective.com and vendor at markets throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. So if you’re looking for cool basics, check us out and stay in touch.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Perseverance, integrity, and authenticity. I never gave up when it got tough, lived by my values, and advocated for my talent. When you’re chasing your dreams, it’s no easy feat, but it’s important to stay true to your goals and remind yourself of what’s at the finish line. The endgame is so worth it.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
I have a village of people who help inspire me: my mom, fiancé, family, friends, and colleagues shape who I am. I consider everyone in my circle a mentor because they help guide me in the right direction. Whenever I’m feeling defeated, they motivate me to keep going. It really does take a village.
Contact Info:
- Website: nyjerahnicole.com | neededcollective.com
- Instagram: @nyjerahnicole | @neededcollective
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nyjerah-cunningham-85500545/
Image Credits
M.M.Lafleur
D’iyanu
Nejvi
Brandon Horsley
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.