As a model who embarked on this exciting journey later in life, it was an absolute thrill to be contacted by Nikki Gal, a renowned model who has graced international magazines for over a decade, a digital artist, a public speaker, as well as a mental health advocate. Nikki is a true inspiration. Not only is she a talented model, she’s also kind, humble, and unstoppable! Nikki is on a mission to foster unity within the industry and shatter the stereotypes surrounding mental health, and I’m riding shotgun on the topic of ageism.
Nikki and I first connected in late 2023, and our friendship quickly blossomed. We agreed that even though I’m older, our spirit energies are the same age. We share a deep commitment to creating a platform for open dialogue and support within the modeling world. In December 2023, Nikki launched her mental health-focused podcast, The Model Memo with Nikki Gal. On this platform, she hosts international discussions aimed at fostering an inclusive environment where models can candidly share their lives, successes, experiences, and challenges. During our conversation on The Model Memo, Nikki and I explored ageism in the fashion industry and the intricate workings of the fashion market from a model’s perspective.
Nikki’s innovative approach extends beyond her podcast. She is also the visionary behind the nonprofit organization ‘Raw Talk with Nikki Gal,’ established in 2021 to provide a safe space for women to share their life experiences. Raw Talk “has given women from all walks of life a comfortable space to share their raw and candid experiences with each other and with society,” describes Nikki. This platform has been instrumental in breaking stigmas related to mental health and promoting women’s wellness.
One of the most significant stereotypes we aimed to dismantle is the misconception that fashion models should only be in their teens, twenties, and thirties. Nikki and I believe it’s crucial to showcase the reality: models can be of any age, walk many different paths, and there is no expiration date on being an artistic muse in the fashion industry. Through our friendship, we’re amplifying our voices on these topics, hoping to destigmatize these conversations.
In an industry often driven by competition, Nikki and I have made it our mission to promote unity among models. We believe that collaboration, rather than competition, is the key to success. By uplifting each other and celebrating our unique stories, we can create a more supportive environment for all models, regardless of their background or experience.
Nikki invited me to join her in her mental health-focused digital campaign, Mind Over Face, which launched in May 2024. The campaign showcased models across the United States coming together to raise awareness about mental health. This campaign underscored the power of unity, reminding us that we are stronger together. Her mission transcends the evolution of the fashion industry; it’s about empowering individuals to embrace their true selves and their identities, which is the mission behind, Leaning into Aphrodite, a platform about acknowledging one’s own beauty, strength, and vulnerability.
My personal journey is a testament to the belief that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Women my age need to be seen and heard. They need to feel beautiful and sexy at any age. My story, (just like anyone else’s story) marked by resilience and a refusal to give up, serves as a powerful reminder that age, race, gender, and body type, should never be a barrier to living your dreams. Collectively, we are all beautiful. And we are better together.
Together, Nikki and I are committed to building a modeling community that values authenticity, compassion, and unity. We are breaking stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a model in today’s world. This should not be just inspiring; it’s essential. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Nikki, and I eagerly anticipate the future opportunities we will create together as women and as models in the fashion industry.
Follow Nikki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkicgal/
Leaning into Aphrodite 