Meet Nikka Sorrells | Certified Group Fitness Instructor & Public Health Professional

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

Hi Nikka, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
As a certified group fitness instructor, I absolutely love leading classes like POUND, Barre, and Strength Training, but POUND holds a special place in my heart. As a Tour Crew Brand Ambassador for POUND, I not only get to teach but also help spread the energy and community that makes POUND so unique.

POUND is a full-body workout that combines cardio, strength training, and drumming with Ripstix—lightly weighted drumsticks designed for exercise. It’s more than just a workout; it’s an experience that allows participants to release stress, connect with the music, and feel empowered in a judgment-free space. What I love most is how it makes fitness accessible and fun for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.

Seeing my participants lose themselves in the rhythm, build confidence, and leave feeling stronger and more energized is what drives me. POUND is not just about movement—it’s about community, self-expression, and joy, and I’m passionate about sharing that in every class I teach.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently serving as an Associate Program Director at a Public Health non-profit in Atlanta, GA, where I focus on program and budget management, program evaluation, and grant management. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Oakwood University and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Louisville, I have dedicated the past 11 years to advancing health equity and addressing health disparities at local, state, and national levels.

My journey into public health was shaped by my mentor, Anika Salim. As an undergraduate, I was fortunate to hear her speak about her experience pursuing an MPH and becoming an Environmental Health Fellow at the Environmental Protection Agency. Her story inspired me to explore the many sectors of public health and ultimately led me to my path in epidemiology and health program management.

While I am incredibly proud of the work I do, the journey has not always been easy. Public health is a field that demands resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to serving communities that need it most. Navigating complex health challenges, securing funding for vital programs, and working toward systemic change have all come with their difficulties, but they have also reinforced my passion and drive. I have learned the importance of persistence, collaboration, and being a voice for those who are often unheard.

What sets me apart is my ability to merge technical expertise with a deep passion for advocacy. I don’t just analyze data or manage programs—I strive to make a tangible impact by ensuring health initiatives are equitable, accessible, and effective. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue working on innovative solutions to reduce health disparities and improve community well-being.

Public health is more than a career for me—it’s a mission. My goal is to not only contribute to the field but to inspire and mentor others, just as I was inspired years ago.

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?
Day 1: Welcome to ATL
Brunch: Start the trip at the Flying Biscuit in midtown for some of the best Southern breakfast classics.
Explore: Explore Ponce City Market to see all of the shops and restaurants
Dinner: Head to 26 Thai Kitchen for good food and drinks in midtown.

Day 2: History & Culture
Brunch: Go to Virgils Gullah Kitchen and Bar in West Midtown
Nap & Civil Rights Tour: Take a nap and visit The King Center and Ebenezer Baptist Church to dive into the rich Black History in Atlanta.
Late Afternoon Activity: Explore the High Museum of Art
Evening: Catch live music at City Winery.

Day 3: BeltLine Adventures & Foodie Heaven
Morning Walk: Start with a stroll on the Atlanta BeltLine
Lunch: Hit up Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Afternoon Fun: Rent bikes and take a BeltLine tour, stopping for murals, street art and music
Dinner: Herban Fix for upscale delicious vegan food

Day 4: Outdoor Adventure & Relaxation
Morning Hike: Hike Stone Mountain for amazing sunrise views.
Brunch: Milk & Honey for southern brunch food with a twist
Afternoon: Chill day at Piedmont Park
Dinner & Drinks: Negril ATL for Caribbean food, drinks and good music.

Day 5: Sports & Shopping
Morning: Shopping spree at Atlantic Station
Lunch: Slutty Vegan for one of ATL’s most famous plant-based burgers.
Afternoon: Catch a Braves, game and sit in the lounge area.

Day 6: Day Trip & Nightlife Fun
Morning Trip: Drive to Château Élan for a spa and winery escape.
Dinner: Dinner and drinks at Rock Steady.

Day 7: Breakfast & Goodbyes
Brunch: Breakfast at my place on the patio.
Last-minute Fun: Walk through Krog Street Market, grab souvenirs, and say goodbye to the A!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My journey wouldn’t be the same without the incredible support, mentorship, and encouragement of some amazing individuals. I want to give a huge shoutout to KaToya Sumner, Dawn Peck, Thomia Campbell, Amber Batten, Constance McGee and my parents.

KaToya is a POUND Icon and a friend who trained me three years ago and has been a constant source of encouragement throughout my journey as a POUND instructor. She believed in me enough to suggest that I apply to be a Tour Crew Brand Ambassador, and I truly wouldn’t have taken that step without her push and support.

Dawn Peck is an experienced Certified Group Fitness Instructor, choreographer and friend who has been teaching hip-hop dance and Zumba for over a decade. She has shared her wisdom with me about the joys and challenges of being an instructor, always pushing me forward, especially in moments when I’ve felt discouraged.

Thomia Campbell, Amber Batten, and Constance McGee are more than friends—they’re my sisters. I’ve known them since middle and high school, and they have been my biggest cheerleaders every time I’ve set a goal to earn a new fitness certification. They’ve seen me at my best and my worst, stood by me through thick and thin, and continuously uplift me in ways I can’t even put into words.

Lastly, thanks to my amazing parents for always supporting me and being there to celebrate my successes! Their love and encouragement mean the world to me.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without these amazing people, and I am beyond grateful for their presence in my journey!

Instagram: @fit_neeks

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikka-s-26024b42/

Image Credits
Gianna Snell Photography