Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicky Geis
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born and raised in San Diego. More specifically I grew up in Spring Valley and was raised by my mom. Although I may not have had a lot growing up, and didn’t grow up in the best of neighborhoods, the resiliency and grit that was instilled in me, has been essential to my success. I did well in school, but I always had to work harder than my peers to make that happen. I was never the best player on my teams, but my heart and attitude kept pushing me to the next level. It is my desire to make the world a better place that led to me becoming a teacher and creating my apparel brand. I truly want to be the change I wish to see in the world.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all. I have definitely had to work for and earn everything I have gotten in my life. There are multiple factors of my identity that have created barriers and limits on what I was told I could and could not accomplish. Growing up in Spring Valley, being raised by a single parent, being black, gay, and a woman, all of these have been reasons others have given me as to why I would never make it. “They” underestimated the heart, will, and guts that have gotten me everywhere I have wanted to go so far.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a teacher! No matter where I go. or what I do, teaching is what I have been put on this planet to do. I’ve been in education for over 20 years, and during my own journey of improving my self esteem and self confidence, and in the stories of my students over the years, I’ve realized that I am always trying to empower others with the lessons and the tools I’ve learned along the way. That’s where the idea for Be The Change Apparel has it’s roots. I have gone from substitute teacher to Assistant Principal. I have gone from a kid being told she would never make it, to having a Master’s degree and being named Charter School Teacher of the Year. I believe people are good and the world is an incredible place. Love leads me everywhere I go, and all along I have been inspired by Ghandi’s quote, “you must be the change you wish to see in the world”. That is my goal and passion for my life.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I am just starting out. My business isn’t thriving. I don’t have a bunch of sales happening every second of every day. I don’t have a bunch of followers. I just have a belief that I will get there. I will always emphasize the importance of a team, having great mentors, and always going back to your why.
Pricing:
- Shirts: $22-$30
- Sweatshirts: $45-$55
- Accessories: $20-$35
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.beapparel.shop
- Instagram: instagram.com/nickygeis and instagram.com/be.thechangeapparel
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicky.geis and https://www.facebook.com/bethechangeapparelshop/
