Chicago Movers & Shakers is an ongoing series featuring millennials in the Chicagoland area working hard to make a positive name for themselves in their respective areas of expertise. From entertainers to creatives to business leaders, there’s a plethora of budding talent in Chicago — an entire world beyond the media-created “Chiraq” perception.
The Twittersphere opens an entire world of talented writers that otherwise may go unnoticed — that’s how we stumbled upon Nikki Thompson’s blog, Nikki and the City.
Nikki can be considered a lifestyle blogger whose work has been featured in Jet magazine, Essence and HuffPost Live. On her blog, she writes about racial issues, her faith, living (and playing) in Chicago and her views on social and cultural standards.
Thompson was gracious enough to take some time from her busy schedule to answer a few questions.
What inspired you to start blogging? What do you find most enjoyable about it?
I thought blogging was pretty cool, as I followed my friend’s blog centered around her life as a student at Howard University. I figured, “Hey, I went to school for media studies and most definitely have a voice for trending topics, so why not?” What I enjoy most about blogging is the freedom it gives me. It’s my blog, my voice, and my thoughts. In the words of Shirley Chisolm, I’m “unbought and unbossed.” Also, people underestimate the power of blogging. My site has literally jump-started my career as a freelance writer.
What’s your favorite aspect of summertime Chi?
What’s not to love about summertime Chi? The street festivals, exploring the richness and diversity that each community has to offer, the lakefront — and, of course, the food! Every winter I forget why I live in Chicago, but every summer I’m reminded why.
What advice would you give your 22-year-old self?
I would advise my 22-year-old self to dream bigger, work harder, pursue every endeavor thoroughly, and never shrink. Oh, and to stop worrying about knuckleheads. My prince will find me when it’s time.
Once women turn a certain age, the quest to find a husband becomes a priority (sometimes when it shouldn’t be). What qualities would you expect from the father of your child?
Well, the father of my children has to be God-fearing, loving, selfless, a hard worker, and a provider. Thank God my fiancé possesses all of those qualities.
What qualities did your father exhibit (or not exhibit) that you’d expect from the father of your child?
My father is amazing! He’s a provider, supportive, loving, and my No. 1 fan. He taught me how to love my black heritage and to treat my body like the temple it is.
Be sure to check out Nikki’s work at www.nikkiandthecity.com and stay tuned for the next installment of Chicago Movers & Shakers!
