Wellness Guru Nikisha Riley On Becoming A Mom At 16 & Growing Up With Her Son
xoNecole's Moms Who Inspire series highlights modern day moms mastering all the tasks on their plate, from day to day responsibilities to ensuring their children are kind, educated and well-rounded human beings. Each mother describes their inspiration, what motherhood means to them, and how they maintain their sense of selves while being the superwoman we all know and love.
If you asked her one word that described how she became a mother, Nikisha Riley would say "unexpected."
The health and wellness social media influencer was 16 years old when she found out she was pregnant with her son Jaden. Raised in the midst of dysfunction, abuse, and toxic behavior, Jaden became a source of life and a source of purpose for the young teenager. She knew then that she would craft a better world than the one she lived in for her now 17-year-old son, protected and filled with love, hugs, kisses, and positive affirmations. And it started when their hearts both shared a beat.
Nowadays, Nikisha is not only the owner of the all-natural skincare line (a Solange favorite) Folie Apothecary, she's also one half of the popular lifestyle blog Urban Bush Babes and is on her way to being newly transplanted to LA, on the heels of divorce. Though it wasn't a path that she thought she'd be on, it's one that she is embracing wholly and completely, in the pursuit of her purpose and ultimately her happiness.
As a Mom Who Inspires us with her bravery and her transparency, Nikisha walks us through her upbringing, her career, and what motherhood looks like for her.
Nikisha & her son JadenCredit: Nikisha Riley
On what motherhood means to her:
Motherhood is like your heart being pulled out of your chest and watching it walk around. It's the most vulnerable place anyone could ever be. It exposes everything in you. I remember the first time I took my son to the park and put him in the swing. He laughed uncontrollably. I was able to bring joy this tiny human with the simplest thing. It made my heart so full.
On how her upbringing influenced her approach to motherhood:
I was very independent growing up. There was a lot of dysfunction, abuse, and toxic behavior. I didn't get a lot of hugs and kisses. I didn't feel that protected and I definitely felt abandoned at times. I didn't feel comfortable being honest. When my son Jaden entered the world, I wanted to keep him away from dysfunction and abuse. I needed him to know he could always count on me and be honest with me, even if I didn't agree. I've always wanted him to be his own person instead of me projecting my own desires onto him, wanting to provide a safe and stable space for him to grow into his own.
I tried to give him everything I didn't get growing up that I know caused a lot of damage in me.
Nikisha & JadenCredit: Mater Mea
On growing up with her son:
Since I became a mom at the very young age of 17 years old, I preserved characteristics of myself by default.
My son and I grew up together, so I was very much still exploring who I was and giving myself the space and the grace to do that.
On what a typical day in her household looks like:
I wake up with my morning routine. I drop my son to school. I drink a smoothie or veggie/fruit juice. I meditate, dance, workout at the gym. I check emails, I work on Folie orders, brand collaborations, or modeling. Eat a big ass salad for lunch, continue working. Get my son from school or soccer, make dinner, and wind down for the day with my fave show or a movie.
Jaden at the age of 12Credit: Nikisha Riley
On how she got through difficult parenting moments:
My son's school years going from the end of elementary to middle school scared the hell out of me! I was a single parent and he has ADHD as well, so school has been the toughest part of parenting for me. I would have nervous breakdowns at least twice a week from his grades or the school calling me. There were so many times I didn't know if I was gonna get through it. I took things day to day until I finally decided to move out of Brooklyn so he could have access to better schools and an actual childhood.
On the important lessons she & her son have learned from each other:
I'm always telling my son to stay true to his authentic self. And that resilience is key to living his best life. Learning how to bounce back after tough times or failure.
My son has taught me to let go.
I have to allow my son to be himself without projecting my own vision or wants on him.
Credit: MotherMag.com
On the three words that represent her approach to motherhood:
Humble, resilience, and unconditional love. Humble because there are a lot of times where we as parents make mistakes and we have to be willing to admit them and tell our children sorry. Resilience because raising another human being is the hardest job in the world and isn't for the faint of heart. Unconditional love because a parent's love should never be based on conditions. We are here to accept, guide, and help this human be the best version of themselves by providing a safe space for them to grow.
On how she practices self-care:
I practice self-care everyday ever since my diagnosis with anxiety disorder and ADHD. It starts with my environment and making sure it's not anxiety-inducing. Also, the people I choose to surround myself with have to be chill and not toxic or dysfunctional. I eat healthy, I work out, I take breaks, I go to bed early, I take supplements, I hang out with my friends. I do things I love, like dancing, cooking, watching thrillers on TV. I research ways to live holistically, and I say no to things to make sure I'm not taking on too much.
Nikisha with her motherCredit: Bee Walker/Paper Monday
On who inspires her to be a better mother:
My mom has always inspired me as a single mom. I saw her work so hard. She never made excuses, she just made things happen. She taught me what resilience looks like, something I always knew I could do, since she was able to do it.
On choosing a career that moves her:
I stuck to only doing things I was passionate about and it ended up turning into my career. I've chosen different careers throughout my life, like public school teacher, blogger, business owner, etc… because I have more than one passion. My favorite part is that I don't ever have to compromise my values or my time working on things I'm not passionate about. I get to be my authentic self.
For more Nikisha, follow her on Instagram. Check out her all-natural skincare line Folie here.
- Nikisha Brunson Uncovers Gems to Turn Your Creative Space Into a ... ›
- Nikisha Brunson Self Confident Urban Bush Babes Founder ›
- A conversation with Nikisha Brunson on creative entrepreneurship ... ›
- Nikisha & Carl Brunson - Camille Styles ›
- Meet the Woman Behind Solange Knowles's Favorite Skincare Line ... ›
- Nikisha Brunson ›
- Sneak Preview: My Best Friend's Wedding ›
- Self-Care Entrepreneur Nikisha Brunson On Designing a Lifestyle ... ›
- Nikisha Riley, Co-Founder Of Urban Bush Babes Blog, Talks ... ›
- Brooklyn-Girl-Turned-Texan Nikisha Riley Shows Us Around Austin ... ›
- Bridal Bliss: An Irresistible Love | Essence.com ›
- Nikisha Riley — mater mea ›
- Nikisha Riley (@nikishariley) • Instagram photos and videos ›
Christine Carter is a voice for millennial moms (and uniquely, young black female professionals and mothers). She has been featured in and guest contributed to several global digital publications, including Forbes, TIME, Health, Ebony, Black Bride, Inc., Women's Health and many others.
There’s just something about HBCU Homecoming that just hits different. Whether it’s your first time stepping onto the yard since graduation or you’re a regular at every Homecoming tailgate, HBCU pride is undeniable. It’s a vibrant celebration that unites the legacy of excellence and tradition with the energy and resilience of Black culture.
The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
Some of the top jobs with the highest salaries also include a unique duty: Managing high levels of stress. And for Black women, this is especially troubling since many already face an added unique barrier of hidden biases, discrimination, and unequal pay.
When it comes to stress, according to a recent report, these jobs made the list:
(Oh, and a quick disclaimer: This is not to deter anyone from pursuing the career of their dreams or calling. Just keep these things in mind and remember that there are both good and not-so-savory aspects of doing any job or getting into any industry.)
Anesthesiologist
These professionals (who, on average, can earn more than $230,000 annually) face occupational risks such as large workloads, intense responsibility, safety issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, and high instances of suicide. They are also exposed to the usual biological factors present in medical facilities, such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Business Operations Manager
Take it from me, any job title with the name “manager” in it is indeed stressful. As someone who has worked in management positions for over 10 years, it’s a rewarding but oftentimes thankless job, and when something goes wrong, the buck stops at you even if it’s not exactly all your fault.
Research has shown that 67% of managers have admitted to “struggling with heavy workloads, and the pressure exacerbates burnout in the office.” Business operations managers can earn upwards of $89,000 but are often tasked with making sure the engine of a department or a whole business runs efficiently and smoothly. This can mean late nights, overtime, and heavy expectations for results.
Social Worker
SDI Productions/Getty Images
Whether clinical, child and family, or community social workers, these professionals often have to help women, children, and families get through some very tough situations; social workers are susceptible to burnout. Due to services in stressful and complex situations, social workers are “more at-risk for chronic stress resulting in burnout,” according to research. This burnout is associated with “increased levels of absenteeism, higher turnover rates, and negative work attitudes.” Salaries can range from more than $45,000 to $80,000 per year.
Dentist
While it might seem like this is one of the less stressful medical professions to pursue, where you can set your own hours, start a practice, or take on a lucrative niche to meet your career and financial goals, this is still on the list of the most stressful jobs.
An expert told U.S. News & Report that a key stressor for dentists, who can earn salaries of more than $155,000 per year, is dealing with patient anxiety. “The most stressful occupations are those with much responsibility and not a lot of positive reward and feedback,” she explained to the publication.
Nurse Practitioner
One report found that these essential workers, who can earn upwards of $121,000, face constantly having to deal with “doctor's attitude, posting in busy departments (emergency/ICU), inadequate pay, and too much work.” Another found that two out of every 10 nurses have indicated that they are either “highly” or “extremely” stressed due to work, with 82% stating that stress affects their mental health and more than 44% indicating that work stress affects their physical health.
Sales Manager
FG Trade/Getty Images
As mentioned before, being a manager is not for the faint at heart, especially when you’re managing both processes and people. There’s a sense that there’s always a deal to be made or closed, and revenue numbers directly impact one’s success in this role (as well as their livelihood.) Having to constantly hit targets and KPIs can take a toll on even the most savvy salesperson, and then add to that the responsibility of ensuring your teams are meeting their goals, the reports, the schmoozing, and the constant meetings.
How To Cope With A Stressful Job
Certain levels of stress at any job are unavoidable, and if you’re a professional in any of the aforementioned fields (or plan to be), it’s important to prioritize self-care, finding work-life harmony when balance just isn’t possible, and setting boundaries.
Experts also recommend building a certain level of discipline when it comes to your exercise and fitness habits, seeing a therapist, and building a supportive network. If you’re already in these industries, take micro-breaks (i.e., once every two hours while at work, if possible), commit to a hobby, and find purpose and passion outside of the work that you do.
Join a professional organization specific to your industry where you can relate and network with other professionals who face the same unique stressors that you do, and if all else fails, think about your why and whether maybe a sabbatical, career gap year or a total career change is your next move.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Getty Images