We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nicki Hill. Check out our conversation below.
Nicki, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
One of the greatest sources of joy in my life outside of work is my involvement with the Mentoring for Kids program. I have the pleasure of spending time with a wonderful 7-year-old girl who is in need of a strong female role model. Each time we meet, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing that I am making a positive impact in her life and helping to fill an important void while creating a lasting friendship.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Nicki – a career print and runway model with a vision for a new kind of industry education. My background has prepared me for this exact moment in my career because I can blend my two worlds together. I’ve always had a heart for learning and felt that many new models have been missing a crucial piece of the foundation in building a career. I’ve designed an education for the “Modern Model”.
So many amazing new faces try to break into the modeling industry, but never get the exposure that they need to grow. Building a flourishing career requires a well-developed portfolio, skills, insight into the industry, and network connections. But, when you’re starting out you don’t have access to the right kind of tools. I provide a comprehensive experience that teaches models all of the ins and outs of the modeling world. I’ll work with them one-on-one to create the right kind of portfolio, utilize my extensive network, strategize their next move, and most importantly, help them build confidence.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
As a 6’1 girl, it was not easy being the tallest kid in school. My height was truly my biggest insecurity. I was the shy and weird kid that always sat in the front of class and had no friends in school. I had 0% of confidence. If I had told my child self of what I’d grow up to become I’d never believe it. Modeling really changed my perspective. Being able to embrace what was once hated really gave me an entirely new perspective of myself and my confidence only grew. I have grown to learn that being different is a good thing. Getting into the modeling industry really helped me grow because being different and unique is seen as beautiful. I am thankful for my own unique differences because I would not be able to have the life that I have today or be the person that I now love so much. Embrace your insecurities and allow your differences to shine.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The greatest fear that has held me back in life has been the anxiety of judgment and being unliked. Recently, I’ve learned to let go of others’ opinions, and the sense of relief that has come with it is profound. I often reflect on how different my journey might have been if I had adopted this mindset at a younger age, but I also recognize that these experiences have played a crucial role in shaping the person I am today.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The most pervasive lie that the modeling industry perpetuates is the misconception that beauty, thinness, and youth are prerequisites for success. This belief has not only infuriated me but has also profoundly impacted my mental health and the well-being of thousands of aspiring models. From a young age, I struggled with the pressure of these unrealistic standards, which often led to self-doubt, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self-worth.
Countless individuals in the industry, including myself, have faced the harsh realities of eating disorders and significant body image issues due to these relentless expectations. Hearing that I needed to conform to a specific look only intensified my battles with self-esteem. This toxic narrative can sink into the psyche of many young aspiring models, leaving them to confront feelings of unworthiness and hopelessness.
However, I firmly believe there are vast opportunities for individuals of all ages, sizes, ethnicities, and abilities to thrive in this field. Authenticity is essential; you don’t have to fit someone else’s idea of perfection. By fostering an environment of acceptance and celebrating individuality, we can create a more inclusive and empowering modeling landscape. By sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire others to embrace their authentic selves and redefine beauty standards within the industry.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I had only 10 years to live, I would wholeheartedly embrace a more fearless approach to taking risks and seizing opportunities. My passion would be to inspire young women as a speaker, serving as a role model who helps them build confidence in their bodies and empowers them to embrace their true selves. I would focus not only on promoting self-acceptance but also on equipping women with the tools they need to become leaders in their own lives. By sharing stories of resilience and teaching skills like communication, decision-making, and assertiveness, I hope to cultivate a new generation of confident women who are unafraid to take charge and pursue their dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://eliteimagemodeling.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eliteimagemodeling/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Eliteimagemodeling/
