The Good Girl Series: Meet Nicola, My Sister in Business and Life

Hello, February—the shortest month of the year but packed with so much energy. We’ve got Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, and if you’re in the U.S., Presidents' Day. It’s a lot, but that’s exactly why this month’s feature is perfect. Meet one of my oldest and dearest friends—though at this point, calling her a friend doesn’t even feel right. We’re sisters.

I met Nicola in college, but honestly, it feels like we’ve known each other since childhood. She’s the one I call when I have a bad idea and want to burn the world down—she’ll keep me in check without hurting my feelings. She’s my cheerleader, my hype girl, and one of the most supportive, non-judgmental people I know. Even on her darkest days, she still shows up for the people she loves.

But let’s be clear—Nicola isn’t just a good friend. She’s a powerhouse. When the world shut down in 2020, she pivoted, and by 2024, she had launched her own marketing consultancy with her business partner. She’s a force in the industry, balancing business leadership with that living my best life energy. Monday, she’s in a suit. The weekend? She’s switching between thong bikinis and sequin dresses—all while being taken seriously and never skipping her skincare routine.

So, of course, I had to sit down with her for The Good Girl Series. Let’s get into it.

Professional Journey

Tell us about your consultancy company and what inspired you to start it.

BrandPRO Marketing Limited officially launched in 2024, but the idea started years before. My business partner, Tiffany Grey, and I met back in 2014 as co-workers at a local agency. We clicked instantly but had no idea our friendship would eventually evolve into a business. After leaving that agency, we stayed close, supporting each other as we climbed the corporate ladder.

When the pandemic hit, we started working together on small projects. One, in particular, stood out—Lydford Mining Company, a small but mighty business shipping Jamaican limestone to major U.S. manufacturers. Seeing the impact of telling their story planted the first seed for what became BrandPRO.

By 2023, everything aligned. We both left corporate Jamaica and decided to take the leap. A year later, BrandPRO was born. We specialize in communications, focusing on storytelling that matters. From media placements and government relations to copywriting and PR, we craft narratives that resonate and deliver real results.

Tiffany and I balance each other perfectly—she’s the big-picture strategist, while I’m all about relationships, especially in media. No egos, just synergy. This journey has been incredible, and doing it with a friend makes it even better.

What has been your favorite project so far?

I wouldn’t say I have a favorite, but working on the Bob Marley: One Love movie premiere holds a special place in my heart. That project gave us the final push to establish BrandPRO.

We worked on it through NMDInc, founded by Nasha-Monique Douglas, who was once our client and is now a mentor. She believed in us and gave us the opportunity to work on this monumental project. That kind of support was exactly what we needed to solidify our company.

For the premiere, I handled guest list management, media relations, PR, and the red carpet interviews. At first, I wasn’t intimidated—it felt like just another big event. But as planning ramped up, I realized this wasn’t just about an event. This was about honoring a Jamaican legend on a global stage. The stakes were high, and the pressure was real.

It took sleepless nights and some burnout, but it was all worth it. And the best part? Paramount hired us for another project right after—a mural in Trench Town, where Bob Marley grew up. That was our validation.

How do you balance creativity and strategy in marketing and PR?

Strategy always comes first. No matter how creative a tactic is, it has to align with the client’s goals. Creativity flows naturally when I’m passionate about the project—it’s about finding fun, relatable ways to connect with the audience.

For example, we worked with a home décor client hosting a summer pop-up. Instead of a hard sell, we focused on storytelling—capturing event highlights, securing a TV interview on budget-friendly summer décor tips, and positioning the brand in a way that felt organic. That balance between strategy and creativity is what makes a campaign successful.

What advice do you have for young women entering marketing and events?

Know your niche and what makes you different. Build relationships, network, and create a portfolio that speaks for itself. Confidence and consistency are key—success takes time, so stay patient and trust the process. And find a good mentor! That can be a game-changer.

Personal Resilience

Can you share a bit about your recovery journey after your accident?

On December 28, 2013, I was in a near-fatal car accident that left me unconscious for eight hours. Doctors told my family I wouldn’t survive, and if I did, I might never be the same. My skull was fractured, my face caved in, and I had to relearn how to walk, read, and speak.

But I refused to accept that. I pushed myself, and within three months, I was walking again. The doctors said I should take a year off from school—I took two summer classes instead and graduated on time in 2018. My recovery shocked everyone. It was all faith, resilience, and sheer determination.

How has that experience shaped your perspective on life and work?

It made me realize how short life is. I don’t waste time holding back or playing small. It also showed me the power of belief—if you can see it and truly believe it, you’re halfway there.

What role did your support system play in your recovery?

Everything. My family and friends kept me going. Their love and belief in me made all the difference. It also taught me what real friendships look like—supportive, unwavering, and full of love.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?

Stop overthinking. A friend once told me, “You’re worrying about the wrong things.” That changed my entire outlook. Everything happens for you, not to you.

Wellness & Lifestyle

How do you prioritize wellness in such a fast-paced career?

Wellness is non-negotiable. I work out four times a week, get regular facials, set boundaries with work, and stick to a consistent sleep schedule. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

What’s your go-to for stress management?

Honestly? Sleep. Nothing like a good nap to reset. But when things get hectic, I go into problem-solving mode and just push through. I’ve also been getting into morning meditation—it helps set the tone for the day.

How do you define wellness?

Alignment of mind, body, and soul. Eating well, staying active, staying informed, and keeping my faith strong.

Fun & Personal

If you had to describe yourself in three words?

Tenacious. Authentic. No-nonsense.

What’s next for you?

Growing my company, exploring new activities outside the gym, and giving back more through mentorship and volunteering.

Favorite college memory of us?

Oh, I have plenty—but let’s just say, I was convinced you’d never talk to me again after a certain Brazil Carnival-situation. Yet, here we are. You showed me what true forgiveness and loyalty look like, and I love you for that. Wouldn’t let you down again if my life depended on it!

And that’s Nicola—fierce, funny, and full of wisdom. I hope you loved getting to know her as much as I do!