We were lucky to catch up with Nikki Cueto recently and have shared our conversation below.
Nikki, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
My optimism stems from a lifetime of global exploration, connecting with people, and embracing the richness of our world’s diversity. Traveling to over 60 countries and all seven continents has offered me endless stories of resilience, kindness, and humanity. Engaging with people from different cultures has shown me that, no matter where we’re from, we all share universal hopes, dreams, and challenges. I find great inspiration in the way others overcome obstacles and find joy in everyday life, which deepens my belief in our collective strength.
Through these experiences, I’ve also learned the art of being fully present. Travel teaches you to savor each moment because, in reality, nothing lasts forever. This awareness encourages me to find beauty in the transient nature of life, appreciating both highs and lows as part of a larger journey. This perspective makes it easier to find hope, knowing that even when things are difficult, there’s always an opportunity for growth and change around the corner. My optimism, then, is fueled by this tapestry of human connection, mindful presence, and the belief that there’s always something meaningful to discover.
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 a storyteller at heart, working as a PR professional with a passion for connecting brands with their audiences in meaningful ways. Over the years, I’ve led global communications for major corporations and innovative startups, helping them build trust, craft compelling narratives, and authentically reach people. One of the most exciting aspects of my work is helping companies find their voice and share their values—whether it’s a unique new service, a story about innovation, or a mission they want to champion. In the current climate, there’s so much opportunity for brands to stand out by resonating on a human level, and being part of that evolution is incredibly rewarding.
Outside of the corporate world, I’m also deeply dedicated to advocating for rescue animals. I recently published a children’s book, Marty the Magician, inspired by my own rescue dog, Marty, to help raise awareness about the value of adoption and fostering. Through storytelling, I aim to inspire the next generation to use their voices for those who cannot speak for themselves, fostering empathy and compassion in a way that’s accessible for children and adults alike.
On a personal note, travel has always been a core part of who I am. Having journeyed across 60+ countries and all seven continents, I’m passionate about encouraging others to see the world for themselves. There’s nothing quite like the transformative experience of stepping into a new place, meeting new people, and seeing life through different eyes. In the coming months, I’m focused on blending this love of travel and storytelling, encouraging people not only to visit new places but to truly connect with the world and the people in it.
From corporate boardrooms to animal shelters to exploring the far corners of the globe, my goal is to make a difference, spark connection, and inspire curiosity. I look forward to continuing to expand my work in communications, advocacy, and storytelling, with some exciting new projects planned for the upcoming year that will deepen these connections and allow me to keep sharing stories that matter.
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?
Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, curiosity, and relationship-building. These qualities have been essential in navigating a range of challenges and opportunities across my career in communications, corporate consulting, and advocacy.
Resilience: Facing high-stakes situations and constant changes in my career, resilience has been key to maintaining momentum and staying motivated. There will always be unexpected setbacks or tough days, so building resilience helps you to stay grounded and keep moving forward. For those early in their journey, I recommend developing resilience by viewing challenges as learning experiences and practicing patience with yourself. Setbacks are part of the process, and learning to move through them will help you grow personally and professionally.
Curiosity: Curiosity has been invaluable in keeping my work fresh, interesting, and relevant. Whether learning about a new industry, studying consumer behavior, or diving into cultural trends, curiosity has driven me to continuously expand my knowledge and push boundaries. For those starting out, cultivate curiosity by exploring topics outside your immediate role and staying open to new ideas. Make learning a habit, whether by reading, attending events, or having open conversations with people from different backgrounds. Curiosity will help you find unique insights and opportunities you may not have considered.
Relationship-Building: Building and nurturing genuine relationships has been essential in my work, as strong connections create a foundation of trust and support. Whether working with clients, colleagues, or community partners, relationships have been the backbone of my success. For anyone early in their career, I’d recommend prioritizing authenticity and consistency in your interactions. Focus on listening, supporting others, and finding ways to connect on a personal level. Building a strong network takes time, but the relationships you create will be some of your greatest assets.
For anyone just beginning their career, focusing on resilience, curiosity, and relationships can provide a strong foundation. Embrace challenges, keep learning, and nurture connections—you’ll find that these qualities open doors to growth and fulfillment along the way.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instilling a foundation built on independence, financial planning, curiosity, the value of networking, and a deep appreciation for travel. Each of these lessons has profoundly shaped my journey, both personally and professionally, setting me up for success in ways that continue to influence me every day.
Growing up, my parents encouraged me to be independent—to rely on myself, make my own decisions, and understand the importance of self-sufficiency. This early focus on independence gave me the confidence to pursue a career where I could chart my own path, take on new challenges, and adapt to the evolving nature of my work. They also emphasized the importance of financial planning, teaching me to value savings and be strategic with resources. This guidance has allowed me to make smart financial choices and pursue both professional opportunities and passions without undue stress.
My parents also inspired in me a spirit of curiosity and a love of learning, which opened up a world of possibilities. They encouraged me to ask questions, explore new interests, and seek out knowledge beyond the classroom. This early curiosity helped me dive into new industries and roles, constantly expanding my skills and adapting to new environments.
They also emphasized the power of networking, showing me that relationships are central to both personal growth and professional success. Watching them build connections and maintain strong relationships helped me understand that networking isn’t just about business—it’s about building meaningful connections that enrich both life and career.
Finally, their love of travel and cultural exploration helped me realize early on how transformative it is to see the world. They taught me that travel broadens our perspectives, introduces us to new ideas, and helps us see life through a different lens. This has influenced me deeply, inspiring me to explore over 60 countries and build connections with people from all walks of life. Each trip has expanded my mindset and enriched my work, making me a more compassionate, well-rounded person.
Altogether, these values my parents instilled—independence, financial planning, curiosity, networking, and a love of travel—have been cornerstones of my success. Their guidance has given me a well-rounded toolkit for life and a meaningful perspective that I am forever grateful for.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecubancarrie/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolecueto/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
