IN CONVERSATION WITH NIKKI GAL

Nikki Gal stands as an extraordinary figure in the realms of modeling, artistry, entrepreneurship, and mental health advocacy, seamlessly weaving her diverse talents and passions into a tapestry of inspiration and innovation. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a visionary approach to her endeavors, she embodies resilience, creativity, and a profound dedication to empowering individuals across industries and communities.

At the intersection of beauty, creativity, and entrepreneurship, Nikki Gal’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. From her roots in the captivating world of modelling to her evolution as a trailblazing entrepreneur and advocate for mental health, she navigates each role with grace, authenticity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

As a multifaceted entrepreneur, Nikki Gal has not only redefined traditional notions of modelling but has also carved a distinct niche in the artistic and business landscapes. Her interconnected businesses, rooted in her rich experiences and insights from the fashion world, reflect her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to driving positive change through creativity and innovation.

Through her profound love for literature, human psychology, and holistic well-being, Nikki Gal serves as a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, igniting conversations and fostering a culture of support and empathy. Her nonprofit organization, ‘Raw Talk with Nikki Gal,’ stands as a testament to her commitment to providing a safe and inclusive space for women to share their stories, connect authentically, and inspire positive transformation.

In our exclusive conversation with Nikki Gal, she shares the intricacies of her remarkable journey, from her humble beginnings as a captivating model to her current role as a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropic leader. Her narrative is one of resilience, evolution, and unwavering dedication to her craft, inspiring individuals to embrace their unique talents, challenge conventional norms, and make a meaningful impact on the world around them.

With a profound understanding of the transformative power of creativity and storytelling, Nikki Gal breathes life into her artistry, entrepreneurship, and advocacy efforts, creating a legacy of empowerment, authenticity, and purpose. Her journey illuminates the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to dream, create, and pursue their passions with unwavering dedication and a courageous spirit.

Your modelling career started when you were just fifteen years old. Can you share with us a pivotal moment or experience that inspired you to pursue a career in modelling at such a young age?

I was first drawn to the fashion industry when I was very young. I remember watching fashion focused television shows as well as flipping through fashion magazines as a child. The fashion industry is so artistic and creative, which inspired me to pursue a career in modelling. I wished to be a canvas for fashion designers while also holding the magic of helping other individual’s artistic visions come to life. 

You have graced the covers of numerous international fashion magazines. What has been the most memorable or rewarding photoshoot or editorial you have been a part of, and why?

Shooting the cover of Glamour Magazine Bulgaria was one of my favorite covers and projects I’ve ever worked on. The cover was shot and done in black and white, as I have always found black and white photography timeless. In the cover photo, I am wearing all black—elegance but with an edge. The photoshoot was  one of my most memorable photoshoots I have ever done. Also shooting 2 covers for Marie Claire Magazine Serbia in 2023 was a beautiful experience, as both shoots were colorful and vibrant. The most rewarding photo shoot in my career as a model was for a campaign I photographed and directed in January 2024 for fashion designer Lola Dominguez of Domivis. Directing and photographing the campaign was more than rewarding for me, but also inspiring.

Transitioning from a successful modeling career to becoming the founder of five companies is quite remarkable. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your entrepreneurship journey and how you manage to balance your modeling and business endeavors?

Thank you. I started my entrepreneurial journey at 20 years old in 2019. As a young entrepreneur, I managed to take control of my own passion of being an artist professionally by launching a digital design company, See Thru Nikki. The launch of my first company inspired me to create and build more companies, which later led me to become the founder of 4 more companies by 2022. Balancing both my professional role as a fashion model and role as a multi-faceted entrepreneur has been both inspiring and rewarding. I like to take time out each day to rejuvenate my mindset to avoid creative burnout. I also like to remain as organized as possible by staying on a schedule that helps me be the most proactive throughout the week. 

Making an appearance on The Nick Cannon Show must have been an exciting experience. Could you share with us a highlight moment from your time on the show and what it meant to you as a multi-faceted entrepreneur and artist?

Appearing on television was something I would have never imagined as it was such an exciting experience. I believe that to be an entrepreneur and artist means that you must experience and feel comfortable with coming out of your comfort zone. Doing this television appearance made me come out of my comfort zone and experience something very different. To this day, I am so grateful to have been a part of this experience, and to have had the opportunity. 

Your nonprofit organization, Raw Talk with Nikki Gal, focuses on mental health advocacy. What motivated you to create this platform, and how do you hope to make a difference in the conversation around mental health on a global scale?

I became familiar with mental health in my teenage years while being present in the fashion industry. I witnessed teen models around me that were struggling and coping every day with their own mental health. This is what initially motivated me to become a voice for the mental health community. In the United States alone, 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness. By becoming the founder of 2 nonprofit organizations including Raw Talk with Nikki Gal, it has become a mission of mine to provide those within the mental health community a safe space to share and support but also spread awareness and education. With Raw Talk with Nikki Gal reaching 40 countries just after one year of its launch, this impact motivated me even more to continue to advocate internationally for the mental health community. I hope to continue my advocacy by spreading the important message that no individual is alone, and to continue to create safe spaces and platforms for those that are coping with their own mental health every day no matter where they are in the world.

With your international reach and millions of online impressions, how do you leverage your platform to empower and inspire audiences from over forty countries?

I believe and have made it a mission of mine to connect and engage with my audience, but in a way that’s authentic to myself, my passions and my brands. Throughout the years I have had the pleasure meeting individuals from many different countries that share the same passions as I do such as art, advocacy and entrepreneurship. I value genuine connection within my network and community, as I believe the more genuine your community is, the stronger it is too. Unifying as one has been beyond empowering— we are stronger together. 

As both an artist and entrepreneur, how do you find inspiration for your creative endeavors, whether it’s painting, writing, or developing new business ventures?

I become inspired by almost everything around me— I always have my eyes open. I never like to limit my creative ambitions or visions, as I like to experiment with them and allow my mindset the necessary artistic flexibility and freedom. I often like to take pen to paper and visually brainstorm my next move on a project while also taking mental notes. I like to explore and learn from different perspectives and mediums, while incorporating multiple artistic outlets into my own creative process.

What advice would you give to aspiring models and entrepreneurs who are looking to make their mark in the industry, based on your own experiences and successes?

Keep going, never limit yourself, accept the trial and error process and also brainstorm your ideas, thoughts and goals. For me, I have always found it super beneficial to write down and keep track of my goals and mindset.

In your opinion, how does the fashion industry intertwine with entrepreneurship, and what unique perspective do you bring to both worlds?

I feel that both the fashion industry and the entrepreneurship world are both fast-paced environments that require much patience and diligence. As someone who is both active in the fashion industry as well as the entrepreneurship world, I feel that the power and expression of creativity is my biggest strong suit. I like to share my creativity and artistic visions in a flexible way that every individual I am working with can relate on, but also build off of too. I love sharing and growing my visions with others. Working in both industries has inspired and impacted me greatly as both an artist and human, as I have been able to learn and create with so many artistically talented individuals. 

What exciting projects or initiatives are you currently working on, and what can we expect to see next from Nikki Gal in the near future?

I am currently enjoying the work of my nonprofit organization and podcast The Model Memo with Nikki Gal. The project launched in December 2023, as I have been so grateful to be able to connect and conduct interviews with over 70 women on The Model Memo with Nikki Gal podcast in less than 2 months. I am also excited to launch more digital campaigns pertaining to women’s wellness and mental health.