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Nikki Gal’s Story: Model, Artist, and Voice for Change

Nikki Gal’s journey from teenage dreamer to global model is inspiring. Discovered at just 15, she’s since graced over 50 magazine covers, including ELLE and Grazia. But Nikki’s work goes beyond the runway. As a mental health advocate and founder of five companies, she’s dedicated to inspiring change. Her “Say Her Name” artwork, honoring victims of police brutality, reached millions, blending art with powerful social impact. Nikki’s authenticity shines through every project, showing that a career can be both versatile and deeply meaningful.

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Can you share the story of how you first entered the world of modeling? What sparked your interest in fashion and the industry as a whole?

From a young age, I dreamed of becoming a fashion model. Naturally, flipping through fashion magazines as a child, I was captivated by the vibrant designs and artistry in each page. To me, clothes became art on mannequins, and this vision drew me to the fashion world. Then, at 15, a modeling agency scouted me, marking my official entry into the industry. Since then, I’ve built my name and connected with many visionary and talented people.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome them?

Initially, the fashion industry’s fast pace caught me off guard. However, I quickly learned the importance of adaptability, flexibility, and consistent networking. Because the industry is always evolving, I had to stay focused on my path, which helped me grow. Eventually, I embraced the pace, finding my rhythm and balancing my career with personal growth.

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How did your experiences growing up influence your path into modeling, art, and eventually launching your own companies?

As I reflect back, I see that I had a creative spirit growing up, always drawing or painting. With encouragement from my parents, who enrolled me in art classes, I found early opportunities to develop my talents. Those early experiences became steppingstones, helping me turn my ideas into professional creative ventures. Therefore, embracing creative expression remains a vital part of my life and work.

You balance modeling, artistic pursuits, and mental health advocacy. How do you manage these different aspects?

For me, balance is essential. Over the years, I’ve found that a structured schedule keeps me grounded and focused. Although my weeks vary, a personally paced routine motivates me in my career and keeps my mindset positive.

How has your journey in fashion influenced your personal identity? Has it shaped your personal growth?

Fashion has been my foundation, and through it, I gained skills to build a personal brand and develop my entrepreneurial career. In fact, self-branding has been crucial in shaping my identity and fostering personal growth. Ultimately, my career has taught me resilience and self-awareness, both in life and business.

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Your mental health advocacy emphasizes self-esteem and body image. How do these personal experiences shape your professional work?

Indeed, being an advocate for mental health has been incredibly rewarding. Connecting with people globally who inspire me has enriched my life immensely. In my career, I aim to create works that inspire others, whether through business, nonprofit initiatives, or creative projects. Above all, I want to inspire everyone who encounters my work.

How do you maintain authenticity across your diverse career?

Authenticity is soul deep. For me, each project must resonate personally, or I don’t feel connected. If a project doesn’t speak to my soul, I won’t pursue it. Therefore, it’s essential to safeguard personal space and values, especially in a multi-faceted career.

How does your lifestyle influence both your personal and business decisions?

I believe in living a flexible life, allowing room for versatility and future opportunities. In this way, my lifestyle promotes growth and perspective, ultimately connecting me to my business ventures on a personal level.

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You’ve appeared on over 50 international magazine covers. Which project has been most significant for you, and why?

One of my favorite covers was for the Croatian edition of Grazia. While wearing denim—a staple of American fashion—I felt it symbolized my European roots intertwined with my American heritage. Thus, this cover captured my dual identity, making it particularly special.

What have been some highlights in your modeling and entrepreneurial careers? Are there any turning points that stand out?

Career highlights include magazine covers and campaigns across 24 countries, as well as creative directing for designers in 25 countries. However, my favorite moment was gracing the cover of ELLE in 2024. In business, a significant milestone was achieving over 10 million social media impressions for an art piece I created for the Black Lives Matter movement. Titled “Say Her Name,” it honored six women affected by police brutality. Hearing from their families was deeply moving, and this piece holds a permanent place in my heart.

As the founder of five companies and a mental health advocate, what distinguishes you in the fashion and business worlds?

Embracing a multi-faceted mindset is key. For instance, it inspires me to live without limits and encourages others to explore varied career paths. In turn, I hope to reshape the single-track career narrative, empowering individuals to pursue multiple passions.

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What are your long-term goals for your career in fashion and beyond?

Looking ahead, I envision an innovative future, inspiring others to follow their creative dreams. Ultimately, I aim to be a model who leads with versatility, supporting young talent in realizing their unique potential.

What does living a unique lifestyle mean to you, and how does it influence your future career?

To me, living uniquely means embracing freedom, innovation, and inspiration from others and myself. After all, personal growth often comes from self-reflection and learning from others. So, I see my journey as limitless and am excited to embrace whatever the future holds.


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