We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicholas Mohan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicholas, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born in Trinidad and Tobago in the late 1970s and grew up in the southern part of the island. My mother, of East Indian descent, and my father, of African descent, shaped my identity in a family and community where cultural and racial dynamics were often complex. Raised primarily by my mother alongside my siblings, I learned early how to take care of myself in the midst of both challenges and love.

My mother worked tirelessly to keep us together and provide for us, and her determination continues to inspire the way I care for my own family today. Though we were poor, she instilled in us the values of kindness, respect, and compassion for others. I also experienced firsthand the struggles of a community where not everyone had access to running water or electricity. Still, I saw how faith and fellowship created a sense of refuge and unity.

It was within the church community that I first discovered the Steelpan. Playing in that environment taught me valuable lessons about teamwork, leadership, perseverance, and resilience—qualities that continue to guide me in life and in music today.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
After moving to the U.S., I worked as a performing musician while also holding a day job, supporting my family back in Trinidad. I loved the work, but I wanted more, so I went to trade school and became certified in HVAC & Refrigeration Technology. I quickly progressed from installer helper to service tech, eventually earning my State Professional License, which led me into contracting and now into Building Automation Controls, where I work with mechanical and electrical systems using advanced technology.

At the same time, I kept growing as a musician, taking classes, arranging music, and collaborating with others. In 2016, my wife, a friend, and I started Nugen Steelpan Academy to make steelpan more accessible and visible in the Greater Atlanta community. COVID slowed us down, but we’re rebounding strongly.

It wasn’t easy, but passion, persistence, and the desire to create a better life for my family kept me going. I’ve learned to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and stay committed. That journey taught me that with hard work, humility, and support, the American Dream is possible—and I’m grateful every day for the experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Lolz!

If my best friend visited Atlanta for a week, I’d make sure they got a full taste of the city. We’d hit amazing food spots like The Flying Biscuit for breakfast, Ponce City Market for lunch, and Busy Bee for classic Southern barbecue. I’d show them the cultural side too—Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site, the High Museum, and a walk along the BeltLine.

Since music is a big part of my life, we’d catch some live local music, maybe jazz or even a steelpan performance. We’d also enjoy outdoor spots like Piedmont Park or kayaking on the Chattahoochee, and perhaps a Braves game. Most importantly, we’d explore neighborhoods like Little Five Points, meet locals, and soak up Atlanta’s creativity and energy. By the end, they’d get the real spirit of the city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people I could recognize, but first, I have to shout out my wife, Karima. Her love and encouragement have been invaluable, and I wouldn’t be where I am without her. I also want to thank Mr. Joseph Lett for his lifelong dedication to Steelpan Ministry—his guidance has been truly inspiring. And finally, to my village—you know who you are—your support has shaped me in ways I can’t fully express.

Website: https://nugensteelpan.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nugensteelpan/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nugensteelpan

Youtube: https://youtu.be/JTE_KLj5OlQ

Image Credits
Russell Pope

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.