An Inspirational Story

A woman in a brown dress performing on stage at an event, with the audience seated at tables in front of her and a black curtain backdrop.
A woman speaking at a podium during the Tourette Association of America Gala, with a city skyline backdrop and a large sign displaying the organization's name and event title.
A woman holding a microphone on stage with blue and purple curtains, guitars, and microphones around her.
Two women sitting on brown armchairs having a conversation, with one holding a microphone, in a decorated room with yellow and white balloons, and a sign that says "Born to Shine" behind them.

Hire Nikki to speak at your event

Nikki’s dad, Miles, tells the story about Nikki from high school during his public speaking tours.

While most of her high school classmates dreaded speaking in front of the class, Nikki thrived. Miles asked Nikki what her favorite class was, and without missing a beat, she said ‘public speaking.’ He was surprised and asked why, Nikki replied, “I love being the center of attention.” And that’s how he knew she would follow in his footsteps of speaking publicly, to motivate others by telling her story.

Nikki’s speeches revolve around overcoming adversity, something she knows all too well. At the age of 12, she was diagnosed with Tourettes syndrome and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Her tics would become debilitating, leading to a carousel of medication, severe depression and anxiety, and a breakdown. Doctors told Nikki’s parents she would likely have difficulty holding down a ‘regular job,’ but her parents knew otherwise. With the help of her supportive family, the right* doctor and medication, Nikki proved them all wrong with the one job most people with verbal tics can’t have (at least according to her doctor!): a television news anchor.

Nikki is available for public speaking at events to tell her story. She is also available for event hosting, panel moderation and just about everything in between. Inquiries should be sent here.

Nikki is also available to read her children’s book to classrooms.