We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Nicholette Neilson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Nicholette below.
Nicholette, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
For me, persistence is about staying locked into my passion—whether it’s acting, creating, or building something meaningful through film and philanthropy. I’ve navigated diverse creative spaces, from NYFA to embracing my journey as a DACA recipient, all while balancing artistry with entrepreneurship. That alone shows resilience.
Haters and naysayers? They’re just background noise. I’ve studied under accomplished mentors, worked in multiple cities, and built meaningful connections. That means I’ve been in the right rooms, doing the right things.
When negativity arises, I turn to my craft—whether it’s preparing for a role, refining my content, or diving into a new project. That’s my fuel. I also understand the power of community, from industry contacts to the people who genuinely support my journey. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve already proven that I can move forward despite challenges.
So why stop now?
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m an actress, content creator, and entrepreneur with a deep passion for storytelling—whether through film, modeling, or creative projects that make an impact. My journey has taken me across multiple creative spaces, from studying at NYFA to working in film, all while balancing my artistic vision with entrepreneurship and philanthropy. As of late I became a published photographer for 1883 Magazine.
What excites me most about my work is the power of storytelling to connect people, spark conversations, and inspire change. Whether I’m preparing for a role, creating content, or collaborating on a meaningful project, I always focus on bringing authenticity and depth to everything I do.
Recently, I moved to Los Angeles after being accepted into the Stella Adler Academy of Acting. I’m working on new projects that expand my reach in the film industry, as well as initiatives that blend creativity with purpose. There are some exciting collaborations and upcoming releases in the works, and I can’t wait to share more soon. For anyone following my journey, expect bold storytelling, compelling performances, and a commitment to using art as a force for connection and change.
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?
Resilience, transformation, and storytelling have been the most impactful forces in my journey—especially as a dark-skinned woman navigating an industry that often favors a narrow standard of beauty. The entertainment world comes with its share of challenges, from audition rejections to balancing artistry with entrepreneurship, but resilience has kept me grounded, pushing forward even when the odds felt stacked against me. Transformation has defined my path, allowing me to evolve across multiple creative spaces—acting, content creation, modeling, and photography—while breaking barriers in spaces that weren’t always designed for someone who looks like me. From studying at NYFA to now beginning my journey in Los Angeles, California, to pursue my dream of becoming a leading lady, I’ve learned to carve out my own lane and redefine what’s possible. At the heart of it all is storytelling—the power to create authentic, compelling narratives that not only showcase my artistry but also challenge the industry’s perception of beauty and representation. Whether through film, photography, or creative collaborations, storytelling fuels my passion and drives me to make an impact.
For those early in their journey, the best way to develop resilience, transformation, and storytelling is to commit to growth, even when the path feels uncertain. Resilience is built through persistence—embrace rejection as part of the process, keep refining your craft, and don’t let industry standards define your worth. As a first-generation immigrant with Jamaican parents who sacrificed so much for me to chase my dreams, becoming a DACA recipient taught me early on that opportunities aren’t always handed to you—you have to create them. To strengthen resilience, seek out mentors, build a supportive network, and remind yourself why you started in the first place. Transformation comes from staying adaptable and open to evolution. The best way to improve on this is to explore different aspects of your craft—whether it’s acting, content creation, or another artistic avenue. Take classes, push yourself into unfamiliar creative spaces, and never stop learning. My own journey of moving to Los Angeles to pursue my dreams—has been shaped by my willingness to grow and redefine my path. Storytelling is the most powerful tool you have, and the best way to develop it is through authenticity. Study the greats, but don’t lose sight of your unique perspective. Use your experiences, culture, and background to tell stories that challenge norms and make an impact. Whether through film, photography, or creative collaborations, focus on crafting narratives that resonate, not just ones that fit industry expectations. Your voice, your perspective, and your journey matter, so own them unapologetically.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, I’m definitely looking to collaborate with fellow creators and storytellers. I’m interested in connecting with anyone who shares a passion for bringing untold stories to life. My approach is influenced by my acting coach and mentor, Tobias Truvillion, who always emphasizes the power of working together. If you’re eager to create and share stories that haven’t been told before, I’d love to hear from you. Stories like the Haitian Revolution, the maroons of Jamaica, and the Puerto Rican Taínos. I’m especially interested in partnering with the next generation of storytellers from the Caribbean and the African Diaspora.
You can reach out through my social media handle, Therealnikkinick, or via the email listed on my social media profiles. Let’s connect and start a conversation about how we can collaborate on these exciting projects!
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Darius Churchman 1-3
Elliott Ashby 4-6
Carlos Vivo Uno 7
Vivian Rubio 8
Wilson Morales 9
Antonio Rodríguez 10
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
