NIKKI GOMEZ’S PATH TO RESILIENCE AND EMPOWERMENT

Nikki opens up about her childhood and the aneurysm that almost ended it all

Nikki Gomez’s life and career have been shaped by a series of trials and triumphs that have transformed her into an influential force in the fashion industry. From overcoming a tumultuous upbringing to emerging as a fierce advocate for inclusivity and self-empowerment, Nikki’s journey is a testament to resilience, self-determination, and the power of embracing one’s story.

Growing up in Yonkers, New York, during the 1980s, Nikki experienced a challenging childhood. Her early years were defined by instability as she became responsible for her younger siblings at the age of nine. Her parents, both struggling with substance abuse, relied on her for daily caretaking tasks. From grocery shopping and cleaning to making baby bottles in the middle of the night, Nikki took on responsibilities far beyond her years, while also contending with the psychological toll of domestic violence and an unpredictable home environment. Reflecting on those years, Nikki shared, “I had to grow up very fast... I was essentially a live-in nanny, and my needs as a child seemed to become an afterthought.”

Despite the hardships, Nikki found solace in school, where she was class president in middle school and later joined honors and AP programs in high school. The educational environment provided a much-needed escape and a pathway for hope. She described her affinity for school as a way to “escape from a very unstable home life.” For Nikki, academic achievements and extracurricular activities offered a sense of purpose and normalcy amid the chaos.

Nikki’s inner strength was fueled by a sense of faith and intuition that she attributes to a higher power, a comforting presence she called her “angels.” This faith, along with the love and support of her grandparents and close friends, gave her hope for a future beyond her circumstances. At age 14, when she finally moved in with her grandparents, her life began to change. Her loving relationship with her mother before addiction took hold also left a lasting impact. “She always told me I could be ANYTHING I wanted to be,” Nikki recalled. This encouragement inspired her throughout life, even during times when she doubted her path.

As Nikki grew older, she began to dream beyond her childhood surroundings. Initially, the fashion industry wasn’t in her sights. Poverty had left her without trendy clothes, and being bullied for her size and lack of style made her feel distanced from the world of fashion. Instead, she dreamed of becoming a singer or news reporter, and later pursued journalism in college. However, fate had other plans, and the fashion industry became her stage—a place where she would ultimately make a profound impact. Her journey began in 2004 when she stepped into the spotlight as a plus-size model, driven by a mission to represent the diversity she saw in her own Afro-Latina heritage and family.

But Nikki’s talents weren’t limited to modeling. She soon discovered a natural skill behind the camera, and over the past 18 years, she has created captivating, authentic images that celebrate the full spectrum of beauty across shapes, sizes, and skin tones. Her work with top agencies like Wilhelmina and Elite has showcased models through a lens that embraces representation, one powerful frame at a time.

In 2011, Nikki took her mission for inclusivity to the screen, starring in TLC’s "Big Sexy," the first plus-size reality show. Her on-screen presence shattered stereotypes and paved the way for greater acceptance and visibility of plus-size women in media.

As head booker at Bicoastal Management, Nikki made history by launching the agency’s Plus Size Print Division, breaking new ground in representation and proving that beauty defies limits. Her influence over the last decade has inspired a cultural shift toward authenticity, encouraging individuals to embrace their true selves in an industry that often demands conformity.

Years later, in 2014, Nikki faced another life-altering experience: a sudden aneurysm that required emergency surgery. It was a traumatic episode, and she recalls thinking, “I honestly thought I was going to die.” The experience forced her to reevaluate her life and career. As she lay recovering in the ICU, she recognized that her path needed to change. “I knew that anything resembling a 9-5 life didn't work for me, and I started to imagine a life of self-employment,” Nikki explained. The health crisis was a wake-up call, reigniting her desire to take control of her life and happiness.

Leaving her role as head booker at Bicoastal Management, Nikki launched into a new phase of her career, initially as a freelance photographer. Her work has appeared in major publications and for popular brands, earning her the Photographer of the Year award at Full Figured Fashion Week in 2016, solidifying her status as a visual storyteller with an eye for empowerment. The transition was anything but easy. Facing financial instability, she juggled temporary administrative work and freelance gigs to make ends meet, eventually losing her apartment and leading a nomadic life for a period. While this phase was challenging, Nikki credits it with teaching her valuable lessons and helping her forge connections in the industry. “Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing because I learned a lot about myself during that time,” she reflected.

Driven by a passion for helping others achieve their dreams, Nikki founded The Model Intensive Boot Camp. Her goal was to provide aspiring models with the tools and confidence to succeed in an industry often marred by exclusivity. Through this program, Nikki empowered individuals to overcome their own challenges and believe in their potential, much as she had done. For Nikki, her life’s purpose became clear: “I put my full self into my work... everyone deserves the opportunity to live their dreams.”

Nikki’s resilience and commitment to her values have left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. Her story serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging them to embrace their own journeys and to create a life true to their passions. Now, Nikki Gomez is not only a leader in the industry but also a symbol of perseverance and empowerment, advocating for a more inclusive world where everyone has the chance to shine.

QSM: Growing up in such a challenging environment, you had to shoulder adult responsibilities at a very young age. How did those early experiences shape your understanding of resilience, and what kept you motivated?

Nikki: My childhood experiences taught me so much! Just surviving as much as I did, I realized that I could do anything, and things could literally always be worse. Something happens to you when you go through what some would consider "hell". You gain so much insight into personal strength and when life gets hard you can remind yourself that you have been through worse, and things got better. This can get better too! Don't get me wrong, I learned not to bypass my feelings and processing time but once I have done that, I am ready to move forward, and I am usually more motivated than ever.

QSM: You’ve mentioned that school was a safe haven for you during your childhood. Can you share a specific memory or moment that made you feel hopeful about your future despite everything happening at home?

Nikki: School was definitely a great escape. I excelled at school, and I made sure to join everything. Performing in concert and gospel choir made me feel so at peace in my heart. Being captain of my varsity volleyball team gave me a sense of family and accomplishment. I developed my confidence on the court and sometimes I didn't mind that no one from my actual family was there to cheer me on. Working on the yearbook taught me that I had talent in photography (I shot about 90% of the senior yearbook). I honestly forgot about that until I was years into my photography career!

In high school, I was fortunate enough to be popular despite being a bit of a nerd. Being in school took me out of a high stress, toxic environment and allowed me to just be a kid for a while.

QSM: When your mother told you that you could be "ANYTHING," how did those words influence you, and do you still hear them when you’re facing challenges today?

Nikki: When my mother told me I could be anything, I believed her! I remember seeing the movie Annie for the first time when I was 5 years old. I came home and told her I was going to be a professional singer! She fully encouraged me. I used to sing to the neighbors from the balcony of our apartment and she was right there cheering me on. One time when I was about 6 years old, we were walking through a popular shopping area in our town, and they were setting up a stage for a holiday concert. She went right up to the crew and asked them to please let me sing for a moment and they did! I got up there and sang "Tomorrow" from Annie! When I got off that stage, she told me she could tell that I was nervous. When I asked how, she said "your face turned every color of the rainbow"!

She's with me always. When I am inspired to try something, whether it's singing at a karaoke bar or starting a new business, I do it. I have learned over the years that you learn NOTHING from not trying. However, you ALWAYS learn something from trying, even if you learn that the new business idea needs work or isn't for you.

QSM: You initially dreamed of becoming a singer or a journalist before fate led you to the fashion industry. What aspects of those early dreams have stayed with you, and do they ever influence your work today?

Nikki: Those dreams are essential parts of who I am. When I moved to Tulsa, I really embraced my love of singing but I did it in a way that I felt most comfortable with. I am a karaoke girl! Somehow, I manifested moving above a karaoke bar for my first 2 years in Tulsa. I went every week, won a karaoke competition and ended up performing with the bar's band on their busiest nights multiple times! I consider the people at my regular karaoke spots my extended family and I always feel at home there. I think I am still a journalist at heart, but I get to choose what I share and with who. Ideally that was what I loved about journalism. It was being in the know and having a voice to share what people need to know. I kind of do that through coaching. I share necessary information to help people make the best choices for their lives.

QSM: Your transition to freelance photography was met with serious struggles, even moments of financial instability. How did you keep your faith and stay committed to your vision during those tough times?

Nikki: Whew! You're telling me! Honestly, I remember how I felt when I was doing jobs that didn't align with my vision for my life. I often compare that feeling to soul death. I could never trade my joy for money again. Don't get me wrong, sometimes the idea of getting a well-paying job somewhere is tempting! Entrepreneurship is NOT for everyone. I realized it's the only way for me and I can't go back to corporate America.

QSM: After your aneurysm and the emergency surgery, what realizations did you have about life, and how did that experience shape the way you approach your career today?

Nikki: After my aneurysm I realized I could NOT waste a single day wishing I was doing what made me happy. I knew I had to choose a path that made the most sense to me and aligned with the life I envisioned for myself. So today when I have moments of doubt, I remember that we don't always get second chances, and I don't want to leave this world with any regrets. I choose to live a life that I feel I will be proud of when it's time to leave this life. That holds true when it comes to my career and beyond.

QSM: Inclusivity and representation are central to your mission. As a plus-size Afro-Latina woman, what unique perspectives do you bring to the industry, and what kind of impact do you hope your work has on the next generation of models?

Nikki: I can see the beauty in everyone. Growing up with one standard of mainstream beauty never made sense to me because I could walk down the block and see all kinds of beauty that I didn't see in movies or shows. TV and movies raised me. They were my other escape. I had no problem projecting myself into various characters in these movies but they rarely if ever looked like me. Thankfully my mom showed me Irene Cara and told me she thought I would grow up to resemble her. I was a kid when Purple Rain came out and Michael Jackson was at the top of the charts. I grew up with The Cosby Show and I thought Lisa Bonet was stunning and imagined she was my sister. My mom was never plus size, but she was curvy as were most of the women around me. I never thought it was abnormal until I was picked on for being "bigger".

When I started my photography career it was my mission to put as many images of diverse beauty into the collective consciousness as possible. It was my belief that the more society saw those examples of beauty, the more normalized it would become and in turn the more we would see it reflected back to us. This would in turn inspire future generations of diverse models.

QSM: You’ve said that leaving a stable job at Bicoastal Management for freelance work was challenging but necessary. What was it like taking that leap of faith, and how did it change your outlook on life and success?

Nikki: Leaving a stable job for any form of self-employment is challenging. I still had bills to pay, and I didn't have any real experience being independently employed. I had to learn quickly and while I was still healing and processing that I almost lost my life. In true "Nikki fashion", I pressured myself to figure it out and tried to rush my healing. That was a bit of a disaster because I struggled promoting myself and making sure I could pay my bills. Looking back, it was hard, but I wouldn't change any of it. I learned more about myself and further developed my grit.

QSM: The Model Intensive Boot Camp and the Modelpreneur Masterclass are empowering platforms for aspiring talent. What inspired you to create these programs, and how does it feel to see others succeed through your guidance?

Nikki: Thank you! These programs are very different. The Model Intensive Boot Camp was inspired by my years photographing models for their portfolios. I started to notice that I was coaching on the spot and giving them tips that greatly benefited their images. Sometimes a shoot would turn into a bit of a career coaching session too but since my shoots are pretty fast, it was all happening at an accelerated pace. That's when I was inspired to create a program that would be half career consulting and half on set model posing coaching. Each session was about 90 minutes, and I found it really helped models tune into themselves and focus on getting the strongest images while learning key information that would help them with their careers.

The Modelpreneur Masterclass is a 90-day program that dives deeply into all aspects of the business of modeling. Sometimes I give posing, walking and self-tape tips but that's not what the Modelpreneur Masterclass is for. In this program we cover crucial information such as:

● Figuring out what kind of model you are

● What kind of clients you should focus on

● How to find those clients, what to say when you do

● What kinds of images should be in your portfolio to attract the right clients for you

● How to dream big and go after major brands

● Agency submissions, agency representation vs. freelance modeling

● Contracts, branding, social media marketing and so much more!

All of these things are essential if you are looking to be successful in this industry, especially in the long term.

Helping models succeed is WHY I do this. This is business but it's also personal for me. In my 20 years I have been in their shoes. I have also witnessed so much of why models get discouraged and give up. I can honestly say most of the time it's not their fault things didn't work out and they walk away defeated and believing they weren't right for the industry or didn't have what it takes when in reality, the industry is so much more complicated than they were ever told and it's only natural they would burn out without the proper education. I know I can help. The proof is in the success stories!

QSM: Looking back, you’ve faced difficult situations that tested your strength. What advice would you give to someone struggling to find hope and direction in their own life?

Nikki: I don't think there is an easy answer to this. Speaking from personal experience I have always been an introspective person. I think it helped me a lot. I have always been a seeker of personal development and healing. That looked different over the years but, ultimately it led me to my truth and from there I was able to heal and clearly set goals for the life I wanted and easily identify what I wouldn't tolerate in my life. It's ok to be alone, especially after a traumatic life experience. Have grace and patience with yourself. Give yourself as much peace as you can and start to listen to your intuition. It will guide you towards the life you truly desire.

QSM: In the fashion industry, where images can often feel superficial, you’ve built a career rooted in authenticity. How do you balance the pressure to conform with your commitment to staying true to yourself and your values?

Nikki: That was definitely a journey for me! I mean who doesn't want to be booked and busy all of the time? I am sure that staying true to my style and vision has cost me MAJOR photography jobs but, over the years I realized that when I did anything that didn't feel aligned with my style or vision, it was my WORST work. So, the lesson I had to learn the hard way is I do my best work when I love what I am doing and have creative input. I don't work well as a hired gun. I refused to sacrifice my creative process for money. I know I am unique in this perspective, but I don't do anything for money. I do what I love, and money is the reward for the work I do. Don't get me wrong, I am NOT financially wealthy (yet) but I will figure it out and supplement my income with other projects that bring me joy. There's always a way.

QSM: Your story is an inspiration to many, but how do you stay inspired? Are there people, books, or experiences that keep you motivated and grounded as you continue to grow?

Nikki: I am inspired by the tenacity of people. I love people and being around them. Seeing others go after their dreams. Seeing their faces light up when they talk about their aspirations in life. Recognizing talent in the people I encounter in passing. It's the fuel that keeps me going and if there's any way I can help then I usually offer. It's not uncommon for me to scout ppl in passing. As a matter of fact, I was at an event recently and one of the organizers had one of the most captivating voices. She sounds like Scarlett Johansson meets Rashida Jones! We met shortly after to discuss her potential as a voice actress. She's currently making her demo reel! As for books and what not, I mostly read non-fiction, self-help, personal development or spiritual books. I find them validating and they keep me on my path.

QSM: Tell me about your siblings now? Where are they and what are they doing?

Nikki: They are doing well. Two of them are fathers now. One of them struggled with his own substance issues and then went on to help others get and stay sober. We all live in different parts of the country now, but we all keep in touch through social media. I am so proud of all three of them and all they have accomplished. They definitely haven't had it easy. We haven't all been in the same room since 2008, but I have hopes of a sibling reunion soon.

For more info on Nikki, follow her journey on IG @thenikkigomez and FB @Nikki Gomez