I’ve been told many times that I don’t look like what I’ve been through, in regards to my childhood. I always smile and immediately thank God for all of my blessings and trials. I’m thankful for my trials because they made me the trailblazer that I am today.
Nicole Mattison
Meet Nicole Mattison
Nicole Mattison is a 29-year-old, wife, model, marketing manager, and entrepreneur. Proudly serving her community, Nicole is here to help inspire children with positive outlooks on life.
Tell us more about yourself.
I received my degree in Marketing & Public Relations at Western Michigan University. I have always had a niche for the marketing and advertising industry, so to love my day job is also a blessing. In this role, I help clients with their branding, marketing strategy, and campaign management. In November 2020, I was crowned United States of America’s Mrs. Georgia.
I also met the love of my life in my senior year of college, and he has been my best friend ever since. I started modeling in my sophomore year of college after always being told, “you look like a model.” So, I figured I should give it a try.
After I booked the first photoshoot and fashion show, I felt like I was home and where I was meant to be. When I get on set, there’s a switch that goes off and I feel fierce, confident, and free.
It is such an honor and I get excited every time I am able to participate in a community event. My platform for my reign is called One Step At A Time (OSAAT), which promotes physical activity and nutrition to children. I want children to know that participating in physical activities and having a balanced diet is important, not to look skinny, but to feel good! With One Step At A Time, children can conquer anything!
How did you get started in your industry?
I have been modeling for about 7 years now and recently jumped into the pageant world. I was introduced to pageantry by my current regional director. She reached out to me because she felt I would be a good fit. I thank her all the time for helping me find one of my callings.
Growing up, did you imagine being an entrepreneur?
Absolutely…NOT. I grew up poor, unstable, and in underprivileged neighborhoods. Based on my childhood, the odds were against me. Now, I use my testimony as a reminder: to always work hard and create a foundation for my future children.
In the beginning stages of developing your brand/business, what was your biggest struggle and how did you overcome it?
My biggest struggle was myself. I didn’t know if I would win the state title. Instead, I thought about how many other women I would be competing against and got nervous. I was supposed to compete in 2019 but wasn’t able to. Partly because I talked myself out of it. This year, I believed in myself and won.
Do you feel like you are pursuing purpose? If so, how did you know this was your purpose?
I believe you can have more than one purpose. In the first event as USOA Mrs. Georgia, I knew I was where I was meant to be. It felt natural. It was work, but it also brought me joy. To be honest, with all the recent events, work (my 9-5), working out, side marketing jobs, social media partnerships, community service, and still having time for my husband, I have been running on fumes for the past few weeks. But I’ve tapped into some energy I didn’t know I had. That’s how I know I’ve found my purpose. It always works out.
Please tell us about USOA Mrs. Georgia 2021?
I am offering sponsorship and collaborations with other businesses during my reign. I am also available for appearances. My platform OSAAT will be hosting events for children. Some will be virtual events talking about fitness, wellness, and nutrition.
What’s the best part of USOA Mrs. Georgia 2021? What keeps you motivated to keep going?
When I get to make a difference is the best part. Seeing smiling faces at community events gives me all the satisfaction in the world. I recently spoke with a young girl who wanted to meet a “princess.” Her mother and I arranged a virtual meeting. She had on her princess dress as we talked and my heart was so full.
As an entrepreneur myself, I understand that sometimes personal life can get in the way of business. Have you encountered any personal hurdles that could have or did result in a business pivot?
I don’t know an entrepreneur who hasn’t faced personal hurdles. We are human. It’s okay to get knocked down, just don’t stay down. I would say my personal hurdle is having enough time to do everything I want to do. I try to manage my time wisely and remember why I started to keep me going.
During these times, we’ve all had to adjust. How has the adjustment been for you and your brand?
Everything is virtual. I am an “in-person” person, so this is a big adjustment for me. BUT if it means keeping everyone safe, it is what needs to be done. I hope to be able to visit schools in the future and serve the community.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman starting her career?
When you think about giving up, try to remember why you started. Something sparked your mind, your heart, your drive. Try to use that to keep you going. Use your resources – it is very hard for me to ask for help but that’s what these creative fields are for!
Lastly, what keeps you struttin?
My husband and my future children. My husband is my best friend – he motivates me and pushes me in ways I didn’t know I needed. He grinds even more than I do, so I strive to match his hustle. And I think about the life I want for my future children and family.
Connect with Nicole Mattison
Interested in learning more about Nicole or USOA Mrs. Georgia 2021? Follow her on social below and learn more below.
- Instagram: @nikki.mattison
- Website: https://www.unitedstatesofamericapageants.com/
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