Michael Nicholls-Pierce shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Michael, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
What makes me lose track of time—and find myself again—is listening to old, feel-good music. From Michael Jackson and the Commodores to Dionne Warwick, James Brown, Usher, and Samara Joy, timeless music always draws me in. I believe that kind of quality and soul is a lost art. When I hear it, I become completely immersed.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Michael Nicholls-Pierce is a Caribbean-American photographer passionate about telling stories through the art of still imagery. His work reflects a deep love for the arts, history, education, and a lifelong commitment to equality. Each project he undertakes blends creativity with purpose, allowing him to connect with people and communities from all walks of life. His artistic approach has led to collaborations across a wide range of industries—from corporate clients to grassroots and urban organizations—capturing stories that both inspire and empower.
Michael’s personal endeavors have also blessed him with the opportunity to serve as Director of Communications at Delaware State University, his alma mater. This role not only allows him to refine his skills as a communicator and creative professional but also to advance the visibility of African American education, history, arts, and culture. Through his leadership, Michael works to amplify the voices and achievements of future leaders, community members, and fellow alumni while broadening the university’s reach far beyond his personal network.
Alongside his work in photography and higher education, Michael recently made his acting debut in I’m Good—a short film addressing the mental health of Black men and emphasizing the need for safe spaces within our own communities. This project marks another step in his creative journey, expanding his artistic expression into storytelling on screen while continuing his advocacy for emotional wellness and cultural authenticity.
Across every medium, Michael Nicholls-Pierce remains driven by one purpose: to create art that informs, uplifts, and connects. Whether behind the camera, in front of it, or leading communications initiatives, his mission is to preserve stories that celebrate identity, inspire unity, and honor the power of representation.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
One thing I believed as a child that I no longer hold true is that I am limited. For years, I measured myself against the world’s expectations, comparing my worth to those around me and finding myself lacking. Fear whispered complacency, and in listening, I lost touch with the fullness of who I could be.
Over time, I discovered that my individuality is my power. It is in my unique passions, the quiet joys that bring me peace, and the truths I dare to honor, that I find freedom. Letting go of imposed limits has unlocked experiences and opportunities that my younger self could only dream of—and now, looking back, I can imagine the pride in those wide-eyed dreams finally realized.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that held me back the most in life was the fear of rejection. Like anyone, I longed to belong, to be accepted. And when that acceptance didn’t come—whether from family, a love interest, or a professional opportunity—I questioned my worth, letting the world’s judgment echo in my own mind for years.
But I eventually realized that my value is not dictated by anyone else. After God, I alone define my worth. If I am not welcome at someone else’s table, I will claim my own space—I will buy land, build a home, and place a marble table there for me and mine to gather, to thrive, and to celebrate the life we create. In that act, I reclaim my power, my dignity, and my freedom.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
My spiritual father and pastor, Jerome Lewis, is someone I have had the privilege of witnessing in every aspect of life. I’ve watched him remain steadfast and faithful to his calling, exercising authority with humility and integrity—qualities that have deeply influenced how I view leadership, responsibility, and faith.
His unwavering commitment to his calling, his family, and to instilling the Fear of God and reverence in others has shaped the way I aspire to live. As a man preparing to one day be a husband and father, I find myself striving to emulate the patience, wisdom, and devotion he demonstrates every day.
Pastor Lewis doesn’t just teach good character—he embodies it, and seeing him live it out has left a lasting imprint on the person I am becoming.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What pain do you resist facing directly?
The pain of grief is a beautiful challenge for me- I call it a beautiful challenge because though it is difficult to address, the strength that comes from processing what is no more can be rejuvenating depending on your perspective.
From mourning to morning… taking the pain from what is no more, to fuel what is to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nichollspierce.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikenpierce/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-nicholls-pierce-93aba667/
Image Credits
All photos were captured by Michael Nicholls-Pierce of Nicholls-Pierce & Company.
