We had the good fortune of connecting with Nickkie Burgos and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Nickkie, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am from Camden, NJ. I grew up in a city that has a reputation for being plagued with violence & oppression. Although, my small south jersey city has its faults; I can’t help but love where I come from. It is there that I have met forever friends, were I obtained my middle school & college education; while maintaining lasting relationships that allow me to network, advance & be LOVED. It is there that I felt love, support & togetherness especially in times of difficulty. The news & those unfamiliar with what my city offers will tell you to stay away. However, I am drawn there because there’s a sense of understanding & solidarity amongst like-minded individuals. They can see far past what the world tells them to see simply from being from Camden. Yes, the city is oppressed but it is also abundant with dreamers. Dreamers who have a plan, who see more for their city, & entrepreneurs who not only want to survive for themselves but for their families before & after them. The constant effort in my city is beautiful. The attempts for community unity coupled with my experiences has made the world of difference in who I am today. Had I not been a product of Camden I would have missed out on beautiful opportunities to have to the beautiful people who are in my corner; in my corner. Knowing what I know, I understand that many people just need hope, faith & the ability to believe in themselves. Many people need life spoken into them to be able to continue to manifest their desires. Loyalty, love & encouragement is rooted in my circle & Camden taught us that. I am eternally grateful for all the lessons.
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.
Aside from being an Inspirational Writer & CEO of Nickkie&Co; I am currently an Assistant Program Director for a non-profit associated with ORR. However, I never thought that life would take me here. I thought that I would be a lawyer advocating for children who have experienced abuse. However, God had a different plan. Instead, he made my career path quite flavorful & I realize now that because of those experiences, I was able to found Nickkie&Co. Nickkie&Co functions off of testimony. It’s the testimony of myself & other women that will bring us together. Nickkie&Co is support & understanding that WE are different & the same. Although the covers to our book may look different; there are similarities entwined in the pages of the book. These similarities & differences make us special but it also allows us to look at our sisters, without opening our mouths to say, “I see you.” That’s what I wanted Nickkie&Co to be- a common platform equipped to love on & encourage each other through testimony, positive affirmations, Jesus & love.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
After eating at Corrine’s or Harvinskins- I will find myself at the waterfront. They host different events there & it’s a whole vibe. Aside from that, I love the waterfront. It’s extremely tranquil. I would set up a nice picnic (full of snacks) with music, & paint whatever I’m feeling. She would actually like that too.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mother, she is a cornerstone of support. My circle, they are solid & feed into me everyday. When they read this, they will know exactly who they are.
Website: www.nickkieandco.com
Instagram: Nickkieandco
Facebook: Nickkie & Co